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Today's Entry Doors > Blog > Doors

Today’s Entry Doors only sells and installs one thing — DOORS. From Dutch Doors to Contemporary and Classic Doors, we have you covered with some of the best brands including Jeld-Wen, Therma-Tru, and Masonite.

Entry Or Exterior Door Dimensions Orange County
Doors, Our Products, Products

What are the typical exterior door dimensions?

October 14, 20210

The Typical Exterior Door Dimensions In Orange County, CA

Hi there, are you gearing up to get a new exterior door for your Orange County, CA home?

Getting familiar with some of the basics, like typical sizes and dimensions?

Great!

When you invest in a high-quality, custom entry door, there are many important considerations and factors.

Style, for one. Coloring. Glass. In-swing or out. And so on. And once all these different options are made, you need to know the dimensions of your current doorway and potentially the bigger, bolder doorway you’re expanding into.

You need to start measuring!

Here at Today’s Entry Doors, we send our popular Mobile Showroom to your home and take absolutely perfect measurements. With these and your choices, we guarantee a picture-perfect, magazine-quality match.

Let’s talk about standard sizes.

Here are the links to four pages on our site that help people look at typical exterior door dimensions. On each page is an assortment of images of real doors from our installation galleries.

These are impressive. Do you recall the last time you walked up to a home with a pair of 8-feet-tall, 30-inch double doors?

They make you say, “Wow!”

That particular double entry door is an antiqued 60’’ x 80’’ Jeld-Wen fiberglass model with a Knotty Alder grain; factory-stained Cashmere. The hardware you see is rubbed-oil bronze from Erntek Wilmington.

We installed that entry door for a nice family in Anaheim Hills.

These are very common across the Orange County, CA area. We know because we’ve got 30 solid years of experience working here with folks just like you.

This is a beautiful Therma-Tru Classic Craft 36’’ x 80’’ fiberglass front door with a mahogany grain; factory-stained Cherry. The glass is Lucerna with black nickel caming and then there’s the oil-rubbed bronze hardware.

These are also quite common in our area of the country, because of how well they mesh with the types of homes folks appreciate here. Just look at what can be done in terms of functionality.

This is a custom 42’’ x 80’’ Jeld-Wen Aurora Estate fiberglass half door, with operable sidelites and Rain glass. Again you’ve got the stoic Knotty Alder grain; factory-stained Caramel.

We installed this in Mission Viejo.

Honestly, these tall doors have become more and more popular in Orange County as time goes on. The only reason we can think of that’s making them so popular is none other than how impressive they are. And how stout as well!

Talk about strong frames in combination with modern fiberglass and strong security measures!

How cool is this door? How awesome is that doggy door?

It’s a 96’’ fiberglass Dutch Door with smooth skin and clear glass; factory-painted white. We installed this for a lovely family in Newport Beach.

Need a front or exterior door with truly unique or ultra-rare measurements in the Orange County, CA area? We’re the company to call!

No, really. We’re the only ones we know of who can get something custom of this caliber done.

Don’t let the picture fool you; these are huge doors! Not only are they 9 x 7, but the coloring is 100% custom as well. It’s a Jeld-Wen we installed for a really nice family in San Clemente.

Wrapping Up

Are you interested in learning more beyond the typical exterior door dimensions? Contact Today’s Entry Doors, and we’ll be happy to answer all your questions.

We know everything there is to know about upgrading the entryway of your Orange County, CA home. And we’ll be happy to schedule a visit from our Mobile Showroom. Thanks for your time, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

measuring tape
Doors

How To Accurately Measure A Door

October 12, 20210

Get the Size of Your Front Door Just Right By Learning How to Accurately Measure a Door

Whenever you order a new door, you’ll be asked to provide the door company accurate measurements so they can get the size of the new door and frame right for your home. At Today’s Entry Doors, we replace the entire door system, so you don’t have to worry about fitting the frame to the door, but you will need to get the measurements right for the entry space as a whole. This is precise work, but fortunately we’re experts when it comes to door sizing. We can help with this step-by-step guide for how to measure a door accurately.

Step One: Measure the Width of the Door

Start by measuring the width of the door in three places: top, middle, and bottom. The widest measurement taken is typically in the middle and will count as the width of the door. Don’t worry about measuring the frame in this or any other steps. Once you’ve sent us the measurements for the door, we’ll fit the frame to it based on that.

Step Two: Measure the Height of the Door

Next, you’ll want to measure the height of the door. Measure on both sides for full accuracy. This will allow you to double check your work as well as get the full sense of the door before you send those dimensions to the door company.

Step Three: Measure the Depth of the Door

Finally, you want to get a sense of how thick the door is. Measure the edge of the door depthwise in order to get a sense of how thick your door is.

Step Four: Look at Standard Door Sizes

Once you have your measurements, compare them to standard US door sizes. It should be a fitting match. The most common front door size in the US is 36 inches wide, 80 inches tall and 1 3/4 inches thick. However, some doors can be 84” or even 96” tall, so it really depends on the size of your door frame. Make sure the size you order matches before you order the door.

Step Five: Double Check Before Installation

Again, the size of your door should be precise. You don’t want to damage the door or door frame by trying to fit an ill-fitted door onto your home. Make sure you measure your door again before it’s installed to make sure it’s exactly what the measurement advertised. It might be worth it to double-check your measurements of your door frame, as well, before the installation begins.

Step Six: Count on a Professional

Because every little detail matters when it comes to replacement door installations and measurements, it can be easy to get one of the details a little bit off and to pay dearly for it. Door installation itself can also be a more careful, more time-consuming process than you might expect. That’s why for many homeowners, it’s better to leave the measurements and door installation to a professional. Even if you feel confident in your ability to install your new front door, a professional will save you the effort so you can relax and simply enjoy your new front door.

At Today’s Entry Doors, we’re experts when it comes to premium fiberglass doors. We take care with every measurement, lock, jamb, and hinge. The best news is we install every door we sell, so you don’t have to worry about it yourself. Are you interested in one of our fiberglass entry doors, whether front, back, or side doors? Contact Today’s Entry Doors today to learn more or to get started by scheduling a free entry door consultation. Also, check back to our blog for more information about door choice and installation.

white glass door
Doors

Glass Exterior Doors: Are They Safe?

October 7, 20210

Glass Exterior Doors Make a Stunning Statement — But Are They Safe?

Whether you’re going for a classic or contemporary look, glass exterior doors are a beautiful addition to your home. They make your front door stand out, and your curb appeal shine. From the inside, they allow the entryway to be flooded with natural light. They’re certain to be a boon from an aesthetic perspective, but the nature of the glass surface does present an important concern for many homeowners: that of safety. How safe are these glass exterior doors, and is there a way to make them safer? In today’s blog, let’s discuss everything you need to know about glass exterior doors.
mahogany glass exterior doors

Pros And Cons Of Glass Exterior Doors

Is a glass exterior door the right choice for your home? With so many different styles, you’re certain to find something that suits your home’s design, but glass doors might not be for everyone. Here are some of the pros and cons to help you make your choice:

PROS:

  • Optimized sunlight through the entryway, an otherwise often dimly lit space.
  • Lower maintenance — it doesn’t require painting or staining.
  • Comes in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and styles to suit any home.
  • Boosts your curb appeal and makes your home feel more open and airy.
  • Offers more extended views of your outdoors.

CONS:

  • Not as private as solid doors.
  • Less energy-efficient than a solid fiberglass door.
  • Can potentially be less safe than solid doors.

doors with sidelights

Types Of Glass Exterior Doors

Tempered glass must be used when it comes to glass exterior doors. Tempered glass has been treated in order to be up to five times stronger than average glass. It also shatters into smaller squares rather than sharp jagged edges. With that said, there are several different types of glass exterior doors or entry doors that can use glass. This includes:

French Doors

French doors have the most open and airy feeling when it comes to glass exterior doors. These are often double doors with panes of glass that take up most of the door. These doors may have grids to break up the glass or may remain open. When these are front doors, they often have glass that is fogged, frosted, or designed in such a way that it is less transparent. This way, you can enjoy the light without sacrificing so much privacy.

Wrought Iron Doors

This is less to do with the glass itself and more to do with the decor that surrounds the glass. In this case, you’ll find a door that has glass — whether it be a small portion or most of the door. A wrought iron design runs across the glass, which adds style and fortification to the glass.

Doors With Windows

In some cases, the glass will not span the majority of the door but rather a small section towards the top. Some doors will have windows of sorts. These are typically fixed windows with frosted, decorative glass or even stained glass. They come in all shapes and sizes but are typically installed some distance from the handle and lock.

Doors With Sidelights

Sometimes glass is a part of the overall entrance, but not necessarily a part of the door itself. Sidelights are long vertical panels that span the height of the door and allow light into the entryway without actually compromising your privacy.

Glass Exterior Doors And Safety

So now, of course, the question is: are glass doors safe? While it can vary depending on the way the doors are manufactured, glass exterior doors tend to be safer than one might think.

For one thing, tempered glass is — as stated above — considerably stronger than standard glass. It also doesn’t shatter the same way and is often tested for impact resistance before it is released as a glass exterior door. Glass panes built within doors are also sometimes fortified by grids or wrought iron or even the fiberglass of the door material itself.

In terms of privacy, frosted or decorative glass can help. This glass is often not as transparent as other types of glass. It lets in light, but not necessarily any clear view of what’s on the other side. Of course, this also limits your view of the outdoors, but it can help to keep the privacy you love while still having a glass exterior door.

Glass doors are already popular when it comes to patio doors, which often run along a track and have a bar lock in order to remain secure. These doors are already thicker than typical window glass. There is some risk, as there is with anything else, but so long as the manufacturing takes security into account, your glass entry door can still be a relatively safe option for your home.

Are you interested in the various door options? Today’s Entry Doors can help you find the perfect fiberglass entry doors, whether with glass or not. Contact us today to learn more about our doors or to get started with a free estimate.

Double Front Door Orange County CA
Doors

Are double front doors worth it?

October 5, 20210

Curious about double entry doors?

If we were to go out and ask Orange County, CA, homeowners how many times they’ve walked through a single entry door… they probably wouldn’t know. But, we know the answer is countless times because they’re quite standard and ultra-common, especially when looking at the construction-grade models installed when homes are built.

How about double entry doors, though?

If you have a home which has either double doors or can accommodate double doors, one of the inevitable considerations along with color, height, glass, and material is whether to invest in a new custom set.

Is it worth it?

Let’s take a look at the basics.

What Exactly Are Double Entry Doors, Anyway?

Simply put, we’re talking about entry doors with two slabs instead of one. These allow for a much wider entrance and more artistic expression — style. And, as you might expect, this means their frame is bigger and stronger. Plus, you’ve got the entire gauntlet of accessories to customize with.

Here at Today’s Entry Doors, one of the most popular double entry doors is dutch. With Double Dutch Doors, you have not two but four operable sections to your entryway. Here’s an example directly from our project galleries, along with the primary photo we attached to this article.

As you can see, double dutch doors give you a lot more control. You can have just the tops open, or maybe just one of the tops, with the bottoms firmly closed to keep kids and pets inside. Or, you can have two solid doors for a more traditional look:

What Are The Main Benefits Of Double Entry Doors?

The pros of double entry doors are easy: increased curb appeal, increased property value, a much wider entrance, and a much more dazzling focal point to your Orange County home.

No more worrying about how to get couches or the piano into your home. No more issues with minimal entry door security. No more wishing you had a fantastic and unique entry door.

What Are The Cons?

First and foremost, the initial price tag. However, these are offset by homeowner satisfaction, increased curb appeal, and home value.

Then you need to consider the wider entrance and doors.

  • How much wall space will they take up?
  • What will the implications be for your overall entryway to have a double-wide framing installed?
  • Is your home actually big enough to justify this large of an entrance?

The renovation to go from a standard single entry door to a double entry door is often a bit more complex than homeowners assume. At Today’s Entry Doors we’re known for impeccable, professional work, but we want you to know exactly what to expect.

Can You Have Transoms & Sidelites?

Absolutely. If you have a General Contractor enlarge your present opening, Today’s would be happy to quote on a door set that includes sidelights and transoms. Are you trying to get something generic from a big box store or an average window & door company?

Or, instead, are you interested in a custom, high-quality double entry door custom-made to your specific needs? There’s a world of difference. Here’s another example from our Entry Door Galleries:

Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways

Double entry doors are two-door slabs conjoined together into one magnificent entryway. While they cost more, the value they bring is considerable over their single-door counterparts. If you’re in the Orange County, CA area and you have more questions, feel free to Contact Today’s Entry Doors at your convenience.

We consider ourselves prominent door scientists, and we’re happy to take the time.

  • Double entry doors have a tremendous, dramatic impact on your home’s overall look.
  • With that much room, moving things like large furniture in and out is a breeze.
  • Double entry doors have plenty of room for gorgeous stylistic elements.
  • Like single entry, you can use glass, sidelites, and transom windows to let in more light.
Secure Double Dutch Entry Door
Doors, Door Security

What Is The Most Secure Front Door Material?

September 30, 20210

When you’re shopping around and researching new entry door options, the benefits of security are always a big issue. All styling and aesthetics aside, the last thing our Orange County, CA customers want are burglars.

Did you know that most home burglaries aren’t committed by professional or experienced thieves?

Most often, they’re done at random and by inexperienced, desperate people.

Nothing makes them move on and away from a home quicker than an obvious high-quality, high-security entry door. They aren’t worth the trouble. Even the strongest of men will over-exert themselves and make a tremendous racket trying to kick them in.

But the question is, when it comes to materials, which is the most secure?

  • Wood?
  • Fiberglass?
  • Steel?

Like so many other good questions in this world, the answer is “It depends on…” a variety of things. First and foremost, who you’re asking.

If you talk to a door company that only installs wood, they’re going to talk up the modern security of wooden doors over other options. The same thing goes for steel. And, here at Today’s Entry Doors, we focus on nothing but Fiberglass Entry Doors, so our focus is their premium security features (coupled with some of our own).

Each material has its pros and cons, but if installed incorrectly or sloppily, even the most secure front door will lose a good percentage of its integrity.

Wood Entry Door Security

Even solid wood doors are going to be less energy efficient and require more maintenance to stay ‘like new’ and secure. Wood breaks down. Wood rots. Wood eventually will succumb to the elements, especially if neglected.

What about a solid wood door & frame system with a proper deadbolt and jamb reinforcement?

It still isn’t going to compete with superior, harder, and more durable materials like fiberglass and steel. Sure, it’s just as hard to kick through a solid oak or mahogany door, but the jamb is usually what breaks first.

Steel Entry Door Security

No one denies that insulated steel entry door systems (solid would be too heavy) are among the most secure in the industry. While they used to be almost exclusively used for commercial businesses, they’ve become more popular in the residential market because of their lower costs compared to high-caliber fiberglass.

And what happens when you kick or abuse a steel door? They can dent, get dings, and nasty scratches. When all is said and done, when side by side, a quality fiberglass and steel front door system will have similar levels of security. However, fiberglass pulls ahead in both styling and energy efficiency.

Fiberglass Entry Door Security

Fiberglass doesn’t dent. It doesn’t ding. And it’s harder to scratch. Custom fiberglass front door systems are at the cutting-edge of home security across the board. Here’s a short video we made to demonstrate the point and provide a bit more visual evidence.

3 Things WE Do To Improve Security With Fiberglass Doors For Our Orange County, CA Customers.

  1. We invented our own proprietary method and exclusive product, so your locking mechanism is attached to not just the door frame, but also reinforced by being attached to the actual sub-structure of your home. This makes kicking in the door a LOT harder.
  2. The key to our extra secure installation is a 16-gauge steel security plate designed by Today’s Entry Doors. This plate is installed as reinforcement where the lock meets the door, and then this plate is in turn attached to your house frame.
  3. We use extra-long screws in multiple places for each hinge. This makes a huge difference in how hard it would be to breach the hinge side of the door. Our method of using extra-long screws also helps keeps the door jamb from being spread apart and sagging.

If you’d like to learn more, please visit our page on Safety & Security.

In Conclusion: It’s Typically Fiberglass or Steel

Key Takeaways

  • We can debate material differences, but at the end of the day, the ‘Most Secure’ entry doors are not going to have windows. They’re solid. No glass. No fancy sidelites (especially on the lock side). While not as aesthetically pleasing, this is a fact.
  • Nothing compares to a custom, superior-quality entry door system of either fiberglass or steel. Common, inexpensive options from retailers simply can’t compete.
  • When you work with a company like Today’s Entry Doors, you get the best security features and deadbolt mechanisms installed by a professional.

We at Today’s Entry Doors believe our fiberglass doors are among the most secure out there. But, we’re not a massive corporation and only really serve homeowners in the Orange County, CA area. What it comes down to for you is your installer. What are they doing to make their doors secure, or are they barely focused on that issue?

If you’re in our part of the country, consider fiberglass and Contact Today’s Entry Doors. We’ll happily answer all your questions, address the security points thoroughly, and walk you through your options. Thanks for your time, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Homeowner Information, Doors, Why Us

Two Lessons For Orange County, CA Homeowners From Two Important Calls We Got

September 28, 20210

We Got Two Important Calls Today From Orange County, CA Homeowners. Here’s The Issues They Were Concerned About

Good morning, afternoon, or evening, and welcome to the Today’s Entry Doors website.

After decades in business here in Orange County, CA, we’re extremely used to helping homeowners with questions and concerns.

Each one is important, and we’re happy to take the time.

No. No with call centers. No nonsense. Only door experts pick up our phones!

In this article we’d like to chat with you about two we got recently because they touch on a couple important topics.
Read more

first things first painted in yellow on the asphalt
Homeowner Information, Doors

12 Tips For Long-Lasting Entry Doors

May 18, 20210

Keep Your Fiberglass Entry Doors Looking Great For Longer. Here’s How:

When you invest in beautiful, energy-efficiency, and high-performance entry doors you want them to last as long as possible. 

Right?

And last they can, as long as you maintain them. While modern manufacturing has performed miracles in comparison to the entry doors of yesteryear, time and weather still take their toll. 

If your home is like most others, the doors are being used throughout each and every single day! So durability is a serious concern. 
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Entry doors by Today's entry doors, Orange County
Doors

New Entry Doors Can Increase Home Value

December 16, 20200

Your curb appeal has a major impact on your home value. After all, it’s your curb appeal that makes the first impression of your home upon homebuyers. If your curb appeal makes a bad first impression, many homebuyers aren’t willing to look any further. And one of the most essential elements of your curb appeal is your entry door. So if you want a way to increase your home value, a new entry door might be an effective way to do it.
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