Door Components & Terminology
Homeowner guide to understanding the parts of an entry door so you can choose confidently and describe what you have during a quote.
At a Glance: Single Door with Sidelite & Transom
Visual diagram showing door anatomy will be added here. Door component diagram placeholder.
Core Parts
Door Slab (Panel)
The part that swings. May have solid sections and/or a glass insert (doorlite).
Frame
Surrounds and supports the slab. Includes the two vertical jambs and the top head jamb.
Sill/Threshold
Bottom of the frame. Threshold cap provides a durable, weather-resistant surface.
Sweep
Flexible seal on the bottom edge of the slab that contacts the threshold.
Weatherstripping
Seals around the edges when the door is closed for draft and water control.
Casing / Brickmould
Trim that covers the gap between the frame and the wall. Casing (interior) vs Brickmould (exterior).
Glass & Decorative Elements
Doorlite (Glass)
The glass panel within the slab. Can be clear, privacy, or decorative.
Grilles (Muntins)
Decorative bars that create a grid pattern on/in the glass.
Sidelite
Narrow fixed window next to the door (one or both sides).
Transom
Fixed window above the door (flat or arched).
Lite Frame Style
The trim around the glass (e.g., contemporary or colonial look).
Hardware & Security
Lockset
Handle/knob + latch + interior mechanisms
Deadbolt
Additional locking bolt for security
Strike Plate
Reinforced plate on the jamb where the latch/deadbolt engage
Hinges
Allow the slab to swing. Heavier slabs use heavy-duty hinges
Multi-Point Lock
Upgraded system that locks at multiple points (top/middle/bottom) for seal and security
Handing & Swing (How to Tell)
Quick, Consistent Method:
- 1. Stand on the exterior, facing the door.
- 2. If the hinges are on your left, it's a Left-hand door; on your right, it's Right-hand.
- 3. If it opens toward you (to the outside), it's outswing; if it opens inward, it's inswing.
Examples:
Common Sizes You'll Hear
Slab Widths: 28", 30", 32", 34", 36", 42" | Slab Heights: 6'8" (80"), 7'0" (84"), 8'0" (96"). Sidelites and transoms come in standard widths and heights; we'll size them to your opening.
Options & Add-ons
Storm Door Prep
Add a protective outer door
Peep Hole (Viewer)
In your preferred finish
Mail Slot
Location and finish options
Decorative Shelf
Common on Craftsman styles
Retractable Screen
Where compatible
Why This Matters for Your Quote
Having a few details ready speeds things up and ensures accuracy:
Door type (single or double) and swing/handing
Approximate size (width × height) or photos with tape measure
Glass preferences (clear/privacy/decorative; approximate size)
Color/finish ideas (inside and outside), plus hardware finish
Whether you want sidelites and/or a transom
Brochures & Technical PDFs
Download detailed product information, installation guides, and specifications.
Novatech Style Guide
Entrance doors, door glass, and patio doors.
Trimlite Fiberglass Doors
High-quality fiberglass entry door systems.
ODL Door Glass
Decorative decorative and clear glass options.
Richersons Doors
Entry door collection.
Palma Doorlites
Doorlite collection for entry doors.
Palma Novatech Catalog
Novatech products available through Palma.
Ready to Get Your Quote?
Now that you understand door terminology, configure your door online or book a consultation to discuss your project.
Related Pages
Steel Entry Doors
Configure, price & quote
Read MoreFiberglass Entry Doors
Configure, price & quote
Read MoreFrench Patio Doors
Configure, price & quote
Read MoreSliding Patio Doors
Configure, price & quote
Read MoreCare & Maintenance
Windows & doors maintenance guide
Read MoreWarranty
Manufacturer & labour coverage
Read More