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When you think about replacing your front door, you probably turn to the internet to start researching how much it will cost, different types of doors, and how long it takes to replace.
The further you get into your research, you’ve probably seen many technical terms that can get stuck in the weeds.
Door jambs, threshold, panels, slab...what even is a door system?
The good news is that we’re here to help. You want to understand all the parts of a door so that you know what they are talking about when you work with a contractor to replace your door.
Southwest Exteriors has been a home remodeling contractor in San Antonio since 1989. We install custom front doors for your home and only offer full door replacements. This means we remove the whole door from the wall, not just off the hinges.
Replacing the entire door system instead of just the frame provides a higher-quality installation that ensures your door will function and last longer, which is why we do it.
Before venturing into this project, we want you to understand the main parts of a door to understand better what goes into a full door replacement.
This article will outline what a door system is and break down the parts of a door and their function.
After reading, you will know the main parts of a door and their function to the entire door system.
What is a door system?
Before understanding the difference between an entire door system replacement and just replacing the slab, you need to know what makes up a door system.
A door system consists of more than just the swinging slab. Here we will look at the main parts of a door system and its function.
1. The slab
The slab of a door system is the part that swings to open and close the door. This is the main part of the door system and can be replaced on its own when removed from the hinges.
The slab of the door is also divided into parts.
Panels
The panels on the door look like divided parts, similar to a grid system on a window. The panels are etched into the door when the door is made and give the door a 3D element.
Mullion
The mullion is the section that divides the panels vertically, typically running down the center of the door for a two-paneled door. The mullions can be categorized as first and second, referring to the top and bottom of the door.
You may also see a mullion defined as a divider between a door and a window or another door. Think of a mullion just as a divider of sections.
Rails
The rails of the slab are divided into top, bottom, and lock sections. The top and bottom rails are the top and bottom sections above and below the panels, and the lock rail is in the center of the door, aligned horizontally with the door's lock.
2. Jambs
There are vertical and horizontal jambs on a door system. This is the part that connects the door frame to the wall. The top of the door, the top jamb, is also known as the header or head.
When a door system is removed, the new jambs are inserted into the frame of the wall, providing a steady and secure foundation for the door system. High-quality door systems allow for some wiggle room around the jambs to properly level the door horizontally and vertically. Leveling a door is crucial for the door to operate correctly.
3. Threshold
The threshold to the door is a metal plate on the bottom of the door that sits on the exterior. The purpose of the threshold is to extrude any water that may come close to the seal around the door.
The threshold keeps water from pooling at the bottom of the door and getting into the door frame. If water infiltrates the door frame or collects around it, it can cause rot, which is why the threshold is a crucial component of the door system.
4. Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is a part of the door that borders around the inside of the frame. It is typically made of vinyl, rubber, foam, and sometimes metal to hold shape.
The weatherstripping is inserted around the jambs of the frame to create an added seal to the door. It protects the inside of your home from water coming through around the door and potential drafts.
5. Hardware
The door’s hardware includes the locking mechanism, handle, and hinges. The locking mechanism and handle secure your home and allow you to operate the door. The hinges connect the door slab to the jambs, allowing the door to swing open and closed.
6. Trim
The final part of a door system is the exterior and interior trim, or brick molding, that will go around the door. The trim is the finishing touch to your door and covers the frame. Trim can typically be customized in different designs, allowing you to showcase your style with your door.
What part of a door wears out first?
The parts of a door that wear out first may vary depending on the usage, maintenance, and quality of the materials used, but typically the following parts are most likely to experience wear and tear:
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Hinges: Hinges are constantly subjected to the weight of the door and the force of opening and closing, which can cause them to wear out over time. Loose or squeaky hinges may be a sign that they must be replaced.
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Lockset: The lockset is another part of the door that may wear out over time, especially if used frequently or exposed to the elements. Keys can wear down, and the lock's internal mechanisms may become worn, leading to difficulty locking or unlocking the door.
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Weatherstripping: Weatherstripping is designed to create a seal between the door and the frame to prevent drafts, water, and insects from entering the home. Over time, weatherstripping can become damaged or compressed, reducing its effectiveness.
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Threshold: The threshold is the strip of material at the bottom of the door that creates a barrier to prevent drafts and water from entering the home. The threshold may become damaged over time due to foot traffic or exposure to the elements, leading to water or air leaks.
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Door panel: The panel may also experience wear and tear over time, especially if it's made of wood or other materials prone to rot, warping, or cracking. Damage to the door panel may also affect the seal between the door and the frame, reducing the door's energy efficiency.
Understanding the parts of a door system
Now that you know the main parts of a door and their functions to operate it, you can better understand all that goes into replacing a door.
It’s important to know the main parts of a door so that when you meet with a contractor for your project, you can know what they mean when they talk about the technical parts of a door. You also want to know what will be included in your door replacement project.
Typically, a professional door replacement contractor will replace the entire door system and all that comes with it because it yields a higher-quality replacement that will last longer.
With Southwest Exteriors, we replace the entire door system exactly for this reason. If you are having technical issues with operating your door or any rotting around the frame, replacing the entire door instead of just the swinging part will be your best option.
We want you to be educated on all the technical terms so you do not feel left in the dark or confused when talking to a contractor.
When meeting with a contractor about replacing your door, asking the right questions is important, especially if you do not fully understand something.
This article will outline nine questions to ask a contractor, like what all is included in the replacement, what is the warranty, what door is best for you, and more. Then, you will be more prepared for your consultation with a door replacement contractor.