Doors
Sliding Glass Doors
Sliding patio doors are really just large horizontal sliding windows. They typically come from whichever supplier you chose to supply your windows. In my case I'm using Pella Encompass windows so I chose Pella Encompass sliding doors. Only one side opens so you either specify a right hand or left hand version. For details look on the page that describes windows that is here. Using sliding doors is pretty crappy but they are a low cost way when you only need occasional access.
Swing Glass Patio Doors
Sliding glass doors are cost effective but sometimes you want to have a more classy door to your patio and make it a visual centerpiece. A french door that has two swinging glass doors is the answer, but expect to pay 2 - 5 times as much money. You can get them with doors that swing inwards or doors that swing outwards. Doors that swing inwards are best because you can open them from inside to get ventilation without having to mess with the bug screen.
Whatever brand of swing door you choose you are not really going to match the windows so shop around and find one that you think looks nicest (for the money you are prepared to pay). Get one with at least a white exterior frame so it does not look too out of place relative to the windows.
Entrance Door
The entrance door that visitors arrive at should make a statement. It sets the tone for the house. You can get double door entrance door arrangements but personally I prefer just one door that is fairly huge. You may want to consider having someone build you a custom door. You could get someone to do the high quality woodworking and then get a blacksmith to make it even more unique. You could even have one with animals carved onto it (click pictures below to go to the web site of Ron Ramsey who did these doors).
A few ideas
Could use a plasma cutter to make an outline of a bear and stag. Possibly a complete coat of arms. Lots of decorative bolts - make holes with plasma cutter. Still need a continuous metal sheet inside door - need holes cut for other end of bolts.
These would be the layers (starting from the outside)...
Decorative metal sheet
2-by wood
Security metal sheet
4" of EPS
insulation
Internal 2-by wood
Need to use well dried wood to avoid warping.
Use strong big hinges.
Needs to open inwards (or it would push visitors off the porch).
Don't want a window or even a peep hole as it is better to use a camera to see people on the porch.
Is it best to make it a two leafed door so easier to open and achieve nice symetry?
Other Exterior Doors
Home made with a 5-1/2" frame, 2-by on the flat on the exterior, EPS inside for insulation.
Garage Door
Home made with a 5-1/2" frame, 2-by on the flat on the exterior, EPS inside for insulation.
Interior doors
I like these interior doors from HomeDepot.
