Types of Glass Doors and How to Use Them to Enhance Your Living Space

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There’s something about doors with glass that really enhance a space. They offer a fresh appearance while creating openness and making the room brighter by introducing more natural light. And if you want to take advantage of the view—to simply enjoy the scenery or to keep an eye on wandering children or pets—glass doors are the clear choice. (Pun absolutely intended.) There are many types of glass doors in various sizes, configurations, and design options to achieve your unique vision. Whether it’s a classic sliding French door on the patio, an interior door that adds a modern design touch, or a multi-slide scenic door that brings together your exterior and interior spaces, there’s a glass door to fit your needs and complement your home.

Entry Doors

An entry door (often called the front door) usually faces the street and is the main entrance to a house.  Door designs for modern or contemporary homes include narrow stiles and rails with large glass expanses, while other designs are more classic and may have traditional lines with wider stiles and rails, ogee sticking, and grille patterns on the glass. Or you might explore an entry door  coupled with sidelights and an overhead transom. Many glass options are available, including clear, obscure, decorative and art glass. The style and design choices are practically limitless.

Interior Doors

One often overlooked design choice is using glass for interior doors within a home. They can add a more modern element to the aesthetic of a living space. They can also be a great choice in more traditional designs. One of our favorite configurations we’ve installed included double doors with glass panels to create a closed, quiet office space, while retaining existing light and openness between the private space and adjoining room.


Bi-fold Doors

Bi-fold doors have multiple panels hinged together to open and close like an accordion, which is why they’re also referred to as folding or accordion doors. These doors are great for spaces with stunning views, or for indoor/outdoor spaces. We recently installed a bi-fold door between an open kitchen concept room and a screened porch. During good weather conditions, the living space is doubled for this Louisville family. They also close the doors and let the teenagers use the screened porch while the parents enjoy the adjoining room. If you have plenty of room, bi-fold doors can span widths up to 55’ feet, making a truly dramatic statement.

 

Sliding Doors

These doors, built with one or more door panels that slide open on a bottom track or from hanging rollers on the top, include barn doors, French doors, pocket doors, lift and slide doors and multi-slide doors. Unlike doors that swing open, sliding door panels stack, which makes them perfect for narrow rooms like balconies or patio-facing rooms where inside furniture might be in the way. They can be as simple as a two-panel patio slider or as complex as a full wall of moving glass. Below you’ll find a video of one of our recent sliding door projects, which consisted of bi-parting panels with adjacent fixed panels to save floor space. As you will see, these doors provide easy access to the deck—and a beautiful view from inside.

 

Multi-Slide Doors

A sliding door with multiple moving panels that either stack or conceal in a wall pocket when open is called a multi-slide door. They add an expansive view to huge openings, with options available over 50’ feet in width and 12’ tall. Some are even available with push-button motorized operation for ease of use. While standard sliding doors are great for replacement projects, multi-slide doors are best suited to new construction projects or large-scale remodels, due to structural requirements.

Swinging Doors

The swinging door is the most common door style, featuring one or more hinged panels that swing open and closed. An outswing door swings away from the house while an inswing swings in. There are millions of design options, depending on material, functionality, and design. They look right at home in traditional architectural settings as well as more contemporary settings. For smaller spaces, a single-hinged glass door might be the right choice while double doors can create a more elegant entrance for larger rooms.

 

Lift and Slide Doors

Lift and slide doors create a wall of glass for wonderful views, with the added benefit of easy, weightless movement due to an operating mechanism that lifts the door panels off the bottom tract. These doors are available in dozens of configurations, fitting openings as wide as 47’ and 12’ high. Panels can stack in full view or be concealed within a wall pocket. Lift and slides are the perfect combination of functionality and beauty—easy to use and a joy to behold!

As you can see, no matter what you have in mind, there’s a door with glass panels to match your vision. If you’d like to meet with one of our window and door specialists to discuss how a glass door might take your project to the next level, give us a call today at 502-822-5424 or send us an email to set up your free in-home, no-obligation consultation.

The ABCs of Doors & Windows: The Parts That Windows and Doors Have in Common

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This is part three of our blog series, The ABCs of Doors & Windows. Follow the links to read parts One and Two.

Brick Mold Casing (BMC) – This is the exterior molding on a window or door frame that sits against the structure’s exterior material, serving as a decorative boundary for siding, brick or other material.

Casing – The casing is the interior trim that surrounds the window or door which covers the gap between the window/door and the drywall, hiding the frame, insulation and caulking.

Cladding – The vinyl, fiberglass or aluminum jacket that covers the wooden core on the exterior side of a window or door is called the cladding. It helps preserve the wood and improve its weather resistance.

Divided Lites – Divided lites create the look of multiple, individual panes of glass in a window or door. They can use many different panes of glass or they can be simulated to mimic the look of multiple panes to take advantage of the improved energy efficiency of a single pane. Divided lites are popular in a wide range of architectural styles, from historic replications to modern farmhouses. 

Insulating Glass (IG) – This glass assembly consists of two or more sealed glass panes separated by a space between to reduce heat transfer. Insulating glass, which can contain argon for improved thermal insulation, is one of the most impactful window and door features in terms of energy efficiency. 

Obscure Glass – Often used on entry doors and bathroom windows, obscured glass features a pattern in the pane that provides privacy while maintaining full light transmission.

Screens – Screens are made of close-mesh woven material of metal or fiberglass attached to an aluminum or wood surround, inhibiting the entry of insects while still permitting light, air, and field of view when windows and doors are open.

Tempered Glass – This safety glass is required for large windows and windows that are low to the ground. The glass is heated and then cooled rapidly in a controlled environment for added strength. The tempering process also makes the glass safer due to the pebble-like fragments created when shattered.

Transom – These windows are located above the main window or door and can be either stationary or operating. They allow more light to enter while also adding a decorative touch. 

Weather Strip – Made of felt, foam tape or formed plastic, this strip of resilient material around the door or window reduces air and water infiltration by sealing the sash and frame.

We hope this series on door and window parts has helped you better understand the long list of terms you’ll hear when looking to update or upgrade your home.  Of course, we could not cover everything, so if you have any questions about windows, doors or what will work best for you project, CONTACT US today.

The ABCs of Doors & Windows: Getting to Know Your Door and All Its Parts

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This is part two of our blog series, The ABCs of Doors & Windows. Part one can be found HERE.

Just like with windows, doors have a long list of parts and pieces the average homeowner may not be familiar with. Below you’ll find a brief introduction to some of the most common door parts and pieces that will help you better understand your options and hopefully lead to a more informed decision about which door is right for your project!

Frame – Made up of side jambs, head jambs, and mulls, the frame provides the structure to the door opening. It’s the surrounding part of the entry that the door panel fits into.

Hinges – These are the pieces of hardware that allow the door to swing open and closed. Standard-sized doors typically have three hinges while larger, heavier doors may have four or more to help bear the load.

Lockset – The lockset is the complete door lock system including the lock mechanism, knobs, keys, plates, strikes and other components that allow the door to latch and lock in place.

Panel – Sometimes called a slab, the panel is the whole part of the door that swings back and forth. Many doors are divided into several smaller panels of wood or glass.

Rails – The rails are the horizontal segments along the top, bottom and sometimes middle of the door, depending on the panel configuration.

Stiles – The narrow, vertical segments on either side of a door panel are called the stiles. The lock stile is on the side with the door handle or knob, while the hinge stile is on the side with the hinges.

Sidelites (or Sidelights) – These tall, narrow windows are found on one or both sides of the door, allowing more light into the entry way and improving the view.

Sill – The bottom, floor-fastened component of an exterior door frame is called the sill, which helps to seal the entry from leaks and other intrusions.

Strike Plate – This thick metal plate is attached to the door jamb and has a hole to accommodate the door bolt (or multiple holes for multiple bolts), which extends into the plate to lock the door.

 

Sweep – Creating a weather-resistant barrier between the bottom of door panel and the sill, the sweep is made of rubber, foam, neoprene or vinyl.

 

Threshold – The threshold is the strip of metal, wood or fiberglass that covers the sill on an exterior entryway, providing an added seal against things like weather, drafts, and pests.

Of course, if you have any questions about doors or what will work best for you project, CONTACT US  today. In our upcoming final installment of the The ABCs of Doors & Windows, we’ll cover those parts common to both doors and windows! To view more videos about windows and their various parts, click HERE.

Why Buying Replacement Doors and Windows Based on Price Is Not Always the Best Idea

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As the saying goes, you get what you pay for.

We understand that shopping to find the best deal seems sensible, but when you shop for replacement windows and doors based solely on price, you can put your considerable investment in your home at risk. Below you’ll find some of the reasons the cost of windows and doors is not always comparable and how Door Store and Windows goes above and beyond to ensure you get the best final product for your money.

Select Quality Products Built by Reliable Manufacturers

All door and window manufacturers are not created equal. Each has different manufacturing processes and quality management practices that contribute to the overall excellence of the product. To ensure your doors and windows don’t fail prematurely, make sure to research the manufacturers to determine which offers the best in demonstrated function, strength, and longevity. It also doesn’t hurt to find out how long they’ve been in business. A decades-old company is more likely to have time-tested production systems in place that make it more likely you’ll get a higher standard of door and window. And don’t forget to check the warranties—you don’t want to be left paying for a replacement for your replacement.  Here at Door Store and Windows, we only work with manufacturers that have the best and most predictable quality over time, not to mention industry-leading warranties that protect your investment long after our job is done.

Expert Project Consultation Is Key

Choosing replacement doors and windows might seem like a straight forward process, but if you don’t get it right it could mean more expense down the road. That’s where an expert replacement consultant is invaluable. They can help you determine exactly what product you need to meet your functionality and design requirements. Is your door in an overexposed entry way? You don’t want a wood door. Want your new windows to look like they have always been there? Beware standard sizes used in larger openings. This idea may lower your price, but will ultimately  detract from the overall beauty of  your home. When you work with Door Store and Windows, our project consultants carefully listen to your needs and provide you the best options for your project. We size and order products to perfectly fit your home for the highest level of functionality and aesthetic beauty. We also double—and triple—check everything before ordering to make sure you’re getting exactly what you want.

Don’t Skimp on Installation Supplies

 Using only the best installation supplies available will help your windows and doors perform at their best for a long time. Though there are cheaper options on the market, caulks with multi-year warranties and high-quality spray foam can make all the difference. Anchoring screws, adhesives, and on and on—every aspect of installation matters. That’s why we use only the best in class in all our supplies. It’s worth the cost to ensure there are no weak points in your installation that could come back to haunt you down the road.

Expert Installation Makes the Difference

Replacing windows or doors in an existing home that has settled or experienced other wear and tear is not a project for unskilled workers. A poor install could mean leaks and other issues that lead to serious damage and repair costs. You want to work with installers and service technicians who are seasoned professionals with years in the business. That’s what you get at Door Store and Windows. Our installers are factory-trained and receive ongoing safety training from outside consultants. Every member of our team is drug-tested, bonded, insured, and has passed background and safe-driving tests. To back them up, we supply them with all the best equipment as well, including new trucks and quality tools kept in top notch condition. When your installers can work at the highest level, you receive the highest level of service and expertise in return.

Measuring A Replacement Window

A TDSW Installer measuring the window insert area.

You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.  Some examples are:

  • How invasive to my home is replacing my windows or doors?
  • What will I need to do before and after the installation?
  • Who hauls away the old windows?
  • Will I have to paint the walls or trim in my room after the installation?
  • How long will I have an open “hole” in my house?
  • How long will the installation take?
  • Do the installers clean up after themselves?

Depending on the answers, you may have more expense ahead of you.  Ultimately, knowledge is power.

We Are Here to Answer Any Questions

If you’d like to discuss adding replacement windows or doors to your home, our expert Sales Consultants can help. We’re happy to walk you through all the options to find the perfect fit for your style and budget. Give us a call today to set up a free in-home, no obligation consultation.

Six Things to Think about When Replacing Your Front Door

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Once you’ve made the decision to update your entry with a new front door—what’s next? With so many door types, colors, and configurations available, the choices can be overwhelming. So let’s take a moment to run through some of the most important things to consider when determining the best fit and feel for your home.

1. Match Your Style—and Your Home’s Too

The shape and style of your new door is often determined by the architectural style of your home. For instance, sleek, crisp lines for modern designs or an arched, wood selection for a classic Tudor. However, some homeowners like to venture outside of these guidelines for something more unexpected. In those cases, we recommend a transitional style that’s a happy medium between the style of your home and your personal taste.

2. Make Safety & Security a Priority

A door is only as secure as its hardware. If you’re looking for an option that’s sure to give you peace of mind, we suggest a high-quality, multipoint locking system, where the hardware locks at different places in the door but can still be controlled by a single lock mechanism. We don’t generally recommend double-cylinder deadbolts as they may make it more difficult to get out of your home should there be a fire or other event that requires a fast exit.

There are lots of options to ensure your door is secure.

3. Determine Exposure to the Elements

How exposed your door is to the elements can have a big effect on what kind of material you choose. For example, you don’t want to put a wood door in an area that gets a lot of sun or rain. Instead, you might think of using steel, fiberglass or a clad product using multiple materials like aluminum clad wood or fiberglass clad wood. On the flipside, if your door is completely protected from the elements, the sky’s the limit—depending on your budget of course.

4. Think about Function as Well as Form

The kind of door you choose impacts the look of your entry as well as how it functions.  For instance, if the door will open to a small interior room, an inswing door may interfere with furniture placement. In that setup, an outswing door is likely a better option. If the entryway is located in the rear of the house, a sliding door is another alternative. Or maybe you need a way to move big items in and out of the house. If so, you might consider a double door system rather than a single door with sidelites. Whatever your setup, there’s a door configuration to match.

5. Choose Your Hardware Carefully

Hardware can be tricky.  If you have a very ornate door, you should consider a simpler style of hardware. On the other hand, a simple door with more ornate hardware might be more appropriate.  No matter what you choose, don’t skimp on quality.  Your door hardware is used multiple times a day so it needs to be able to withstand regular use. It’s a very important element to the door’s look and functionality—as well as your long-term happiness!

Your door color can make all the difference.

6. Find a Color that Works

Choosing the color of your door can be one of the most fun parts about the process. Whether you’re looking for a color that perfectly coordinates with your entry or for something that pops, the best option to find your color would be to buy a few pints of the paint you’re considering and paint the door you’re replacing. You can also get smaller samples and paint a piece of wood to place in front of the door to see how it looks with the house.

We’re Here to Help

We know—it’s a lot to think about. That’s where our expert Sales Consultants can help. We can walk you through all of your options to ensure you get the perfect entry door to match your style and needs. Give us a call today to set up a free in-home, no obligation consultation!

Five Reasons to Change Your Entry Door

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As we always say, your front door is often the first impression your guests have of your house—and sometimes of you too. But beyond first impressions, there are many reasons to consider a change to your entry door. Here are five we think are the most important…

Safety First

If you have concerns about the security your door offers, there are lots of options for enhancing the strength and safety of your entry, like choosing wood/clad or metal doors and adding advanced locking systems. Installing a new entryway can also address issues like rot, cracking and warping, which can provide access points for those looking to find an easy way in.

Match Your Style

Whether you’ve recently done a remodel or have just never been happy with the look of your entryway, making a change can go a long way to amp up the style meter. Using cues from your home’s architecture and interior design, choosing a matching door and entry concept can wholly transform a space, not to mention boost your curb appeal!

Energy Efficiency Is Key

One of the most important aspects of an entryway is to make sure it’s energy efficient. After all, if it’s not well sealed and insulated it’s effectively just a big hole in your wall. That can mean added dollar signs to your electric bill, not to mention possible water leakage and unwanted visitors like bugs and even mice. Different door materials like fiberglass, steel and wood provide different levels of efficiency, so it’s critical to find the right balance between how it looks and how performs.

Enhance Your Natural Light

Consider the amount of light you want in your entry hall. Maybe you like it bright; perhaps you prefer things a bit dimmer. Either way, your entry can provide lots of natural light or very little, depending on your choice of door lights, sidelites and even a transom.

Maintenance Matters

It can be easy to forget that your entryway needs maintenance too. It’s such an integral part of your home, it’s sometimes overlooked. That being said, cleaning your door is always required, no matter the material it’s made of. But maybe you have a door with a stain or varnish finish that’s harder to maintain. If so, moving to a painted or metal door might be worth considering.

If you have questions about choosing the right entry door or you’d like to speak to one of our door design specialists, give us a call. We’ll make sure you find the right fit for your home and lifestyle!

Storm Door Purchasing Guide

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At Door Store and Windows, we often have customers inquire about purchasing storm or screen doors. When it comes to storm doors, our first question is “why?”

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Case Study: A Unified Space

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It’s an unusual problem to have: how do you make two distinct houses complement one another? This is the question posed by our customer when undertaking an atypical remodeling project.

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How To Pick Patio Doors

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If you’re considering purchasing a new patio door, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by different designs, styles, and materials. Door Store and Windows is here to help! If you’re about to embark on a patio door project, one of these patio door styles is sure to fit your needs.

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Connect Indoor and Outdoor Living Spaces

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To get the most out of Kentucky’s great climate, the key is to marry your indoor and outdoor spaces. We believe that the best way to achieve this is through the right door (or sometimes, the right door and window combination)! Let’s look at some options.

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