Should External Doors Open In or Out?
Should External Doors Open In or Out?
When considering how your exterior door should function, one of the first questions is whether it should open to the inside or the outside. The decision affects not just the functionality of your front door but also the safety, security, and weather protection of your property. Let's consider the advantages and some factors to help you decide between doors that open in and open out for your house or public buildings.
The Usefulness of Doors that Open Outwards
A door that opens outwards swings outside, giving it many valuable benefits. Opening the door straight out saves important indoor space, perfect for small entryways. This type of door opening is especially popular for French patio doors or doors in places where having more indoor space is very important.
Outward-opening doors are less likely to let rainwater inside the building since they are often sealed to keep out wet weather. This makes them an excellent option for doors that face the rain and provide better protection from the weather than many inward-opening doors.
Also, outward-swinging doors are often considered safer. They are difficult to open from the outside because their hinges are strong and hard to tamper with. This safety feature makes them quite popular in public buildings.
Why Do External Doors Open Inwards?
Most external doors in houses open inward, primarily for convenience and safety reasons. In colder climates, snow and debris can block an outward-opening external door, making it impractical. Inward-opening doors also provide better privacy, making it easier to control who sees into your home when the door is ajar.
Of course if you don’t want a door swinging either in or out of your home, Sliding door systems are gaining popularity and are a great space saver. They are flexible in design and are liked because they can save space and look modern. The doors slide along a track, so there is no need to choose which way they will open. A sliding door is a great choice for a back door entrance, letting in an abundance of natural light into your living space.
Legal Considerations
In the UK, for instance, regulations like Section 153 of the Building Act describe the requirements for installing doors, especially in public buildings and areas where access is crucial. An exterior door in such locations must not obstruct pavements or become a hazard when opened. Due to these reasons, most business exterior doors are outward-swinging, allowing smoother exits in emergencies.
Tips on Installing Outward-Opening Doors
If you do opt for an outward-opening exterior door, there are a few things to consider to ensure your decision works for you and your home. An outward-opening external door means the external door hinges must be secure and strong since they are more exposed than an inward-opening door. Choose the best door hinges with inbuilt security against tampering. Sealant and weather strips should also be put on the door to protect it from potential leakage if it has been exposed to rainwater.
Finding the Right Door for Your Home
Consider space, safety, and weather when determining whether your exterior doors should open inward or outward. French patio doors or a sliding door would be great for letting light in and making it easy to get in and out, but they work better at the rear of a property for security and privacy reasons. A door that opens outward may work better for small areas or places with lots of rain.
Consider the pros and cons to each option, and follow the local rules to determine how your door will open. This will ensure it functions well and is aesthetically pleasing in your home or building.
If you are looking for inspiration on your new exterior door, view our full collection. Our team are available with professional guidance and tips on choosing the right exterior doors.
