Different Types of Doors

Before diving into detailed terminology, you need a solid understanding of the types of doors you may encounter. These core definitions help clarify what you’re buying and why one type may work better than another.

French Doors

French doors are a pair of hinged doors that meet in the center and swing open to create a wide, elegant entryway. They’re popular for both interior and exterior use. They add a classic, architectural touch to the home.

Characteristics:

• Popular in modern, transitional, and Spanish-style homes
• Can be interior or exterior
• Swing inward or outward
• Offer a wider opening than a single door

Sliding Glass Doors

A sliding glass door features two large panels—one fixed and one that slides horizontally to open and close. Popular in Arizona homes, these doors provide expansive views and easy access to patios or backyards, allowing plenty of natural light to enter.

Dutch Door

A Dutch door is divided horizontally so that the top half can open independently from the bottom half. This design allows for ventilation and visibility while keeping pets or children safely inside.

Offset or Uneven Double Door

Offset or uneven double doors feature one full-size active door and a narrower secondary door that can be opened when needed. This design provides flexibility—allowing everyday use of the main door while offering extra width for moving large items or creating a grander entryway when both doors are open.

Types of Iron Doors

Iron Entry Door

An iron entry door serves as the home’s primary front door, crafted from heavy-gauge steel for superior strength, security, and style. Designed to swing inward, it’s typically insulated and weather-sealed, often featuring decorative glass panels that combine elegance with durability for a lasting first impression.

Key features:

• Traditionally swing inward (toward the interior of the home)
• Typically insulated and weather-sealed
• Often includes glass panes or operable glass
• Prioritizes both security and aesthetics
• Makes a strong architectural statement

Iron Security Door / Security Screen Door

An iron security door is installed in front of your main entry door to provide an added layer of protection without sacrificing airflow or visibility. Built from durable steel and typically swinging outward, it can include mesh or screen panels—allowing ventilation and natural light while keeping your home secure.

Key features:

• Swings outward, away from the home
• Adds a second layer of security
• Allows airflow and natural light
• Typically includes a steel mesh or screen option
• Can remain locked while the interior door is open

Iron Arcadia Door

An iron Arcadia door is a decorative and secure wrought-iron door designed to be installed over a sliding glass door. It features a center hinge and can be handled from either the right or left side, depending on the door’s configuration. Typically, one side operates for everyday use while the other remains stationary, though it can be unlocked to open fully from the hinge on the opposite side for expanded access and ventilation.

Additional Security Door Terms

High-quality iron doors often include specialized construction features and hardware designed to resist tampering, enhance strength, and provide superior locking performance—key details that make a significant difference in overall security. 

Examples of security features:

• Multi-point locking options
• Welded hinges
• Tamper-resistant features
• Reinforced frames

Iron Door Components (The Basic Terminology)

Now that we’ve covered the main types of doors and their functions, it’s time to explore the essential terminology that describes how iron doors are designed and built. Understanding these core construction terms will help you make informed choices when comparing different door options.

Door Frame

The structural surround that anchors the door to your home’s entry opening. Built from heavy-gauge steel, it ensures structural integrity and proper alignment.

Door Slab

The actual “door” portion that swings open and closed. Made from welded steel tubing and often filled with insulation (for entry doors).

Hinges

A door hinge is the pivoting hardware that connects the door slab to its frame, allowing the door to swing open and closed smoothly while supporting its full weight. Sometimes you’ll see Butt Hinges being used. First impression Ironworks’ Iron doors use welded bullet hinges which together can hold up to 1,000lbs, and are resistant to prying or removal.

Welded bullet hinges:

• Are welded directly to the door frame (not screwed on)
• Support heavy door weight
• Cannot be removed by intruders

Threshold

A door threshold is the horizontal piece at the bottom of a doorway that you step over when entering or exiting. It helps create a tight seal between the door and the floor, preventing drafts, water, and debris from entering while contributing to the door’s overall insulation and weather protection.

Sweep

A door sweep is a flexible strip attached along the bottom edge of the door that seals the gap between the door and the threshold. It helps keep out dust, insects, drafts, and moisture, improving both energy efficiency and comfort inside the home.

Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping is the sealing material installed around the edges of a door to block air, moisture, and noise from passing through gaps between the door and its frame. It helps improve energy efficiency, maintain indoor comfort, and protect the door system from the elements.

Glass Panels

Iron doors often incorporate glass panels, which may be:

• Fixed glass
• Operable glass (hinged, swinging open)
• Decorative or privacy glass
  

Screen Panels

Screen panels in iron security doors allow for airflow and natural light while maintaining security. They provide a barrier against insects and debris, letting you enjoy ventilation without compromising the safety of your home.

Specialty Security Screen Panels

Special security screens—like our HomeGuard Security Screens—are designed specifically for iron security doors and provide a physical barrier that can’t be easily cut, kicked in, or pried open. These screens feature powder‑coated stainless steel woven mesh that resists corrosion and UV damage, while still allowing fresh air, unobstructed views, and insect protection.

Essential Architectural Terminology Around the Door

Beyond the door itself, several architectural elements work together to define the overall look and feel of an entryway. Features like sidelights, transoms, and door-top shapes not only enhance natural light and curb appeal but also give your home’s entrance a distinctive architectural character.

Sidelights

Vertical glass or iron-and-glass panels placed on one or both sides of the door. They:

• Add natural light
• Expand the visual width of the entry
• Allow additional airflow when operable

Transom

A horizontal glass panel above the door that adds height and architectural emphasis.

Arch, Square, or Eyebrow Tops

These refer to the shape of the top of the door system.

• Square top: Clean, modern, versatile
• Eyebrow: Slight curve—subtle architectural flair
• Full arch: Grand, Tuscan, Mediterranean-influenced

Decorative and Design Elements

Design details play a major role in giving an iron door its personality and charm. From intricate scrollwork and elegant hardware to durable powder-coated finishes and decorative accents, these elements transform a door from purely functional to a true statement piece that complements your home’s style.

Scrollwork

Scrollwork refers to decorative metal designs, either hand-forged or plasma-cut, that are integrated directly into the door for both beauty and character. These patterns can range from perfectly symmetrical designs to flowing, organic shapes or intricate artistic motifs, adding visual interest and style.

Kickplates

Door kickplates are metal panels installed along the lower portion of a door to protect it from scuffs, scratches, and impact from foot traffic, pets, or equipment. They can be purely functional or serve as a decorative accent that enhances the door’s overall design.

Kickplates can be helpful for:

• Reduce impact damage
• Help protect door from pets
• Reduce everyday wear and tear

Handles & Hardware

Handles and hardware are the finishing touches that combine function with style. The right choice can enhance your door’s appearance while ensuring smooth operation and reliable security every time you enter your home.

Includes:

• Lever handles
• Pull handles
• Dual Cylinder Lock Set
• Decorative escutcheon plates

Powder Coat, Finishes & Colors

Powder coating is a crucial finishing step for iron doors, combining style with long-lasting protection. It creates a smooth, vibrant surface that shields the metal from rust, chips, and fading, ensuring the door stays attractive and durable for years.

Powder coating terms include:

• Textured powder coats
• Smooth powder coats
• Hand-applied faux finish

Quality Materials and Insulation

The materials and construction of an iron door play a crucial role in its performance, security, and comfort. Understanding key factors like steel gauge and built-in insulation can help you choose a door that is not only strong and durable but also energy-efficient.

Gauge (Steel Thickness)

Gauge refers to the thickness of the steel used in construction. A lower gauge number indicates thicker, stronger steel, which provides greater durability, security, and resistance to bending or forced entry. High-quality iron doors, like First Impression Ironworks, often use 12 – 14-gauge steel to ensure strength and durability.

Insulation

Iron entry doors often feature insulation within the door slab, which helps reduce heat transfer—especially important in hot climates like Arizona. This insulation also improves energy efficiency and helps minimize sound, creating a more comfortable and quiet indoor environment.

Putting It All Together: Why Terminology Matters

Understanding iron door terminology allows you to:

• Communicate clearly with designers and installers
• Compare iron entry doors to iron security doors accurately
• Decide between inward and outward swings
• Select architectural elements that match your home
• Evaluate the quality of materials and construction
• Choose a design style that feels personal and cohesive
• Confidently plan a renovation or new build
  

Understanding iron door terminology is a key step toward making informed decisions for your home’s entryway. By familiarizing yourself with the terms for door types, construction components, architectural features, and decorative elements, you can confidently communicate your preferences, evaluate quality, and select the door that best balances style, security, and functionality.

Taking the time to learn this vocabulary also empowers you to work effectively with designers, manufacturers, and installers, ensuring your final choice aligns with both your aesthetic vision and practical needs. A well-chosen iron door isn’t just an entry point—it’s a statement of craftsmanship, durability, and personal style that can enhance your home’s beauty and security for years to come.

For additional information about First Impression Ironworks—including details about iron doors, return on investment, fabrication materials,  maintenance recommendations, and more—visit our Resource Center where you can easily find answers to your questions and get expert guidance. Interested in getting started? Discover our latest promotions, find a nearby showroom, and book your FREE in-home consultation.