Double Steel Door Exterior: How to Choose the Right One for Your Home

The front door is the first thing guests see when entering your home; having a double steel door on the outside ensures both good functionality and a beautiful appearance.

However, there are a variety of glass designs, sizes, and finishes available in the market; choosing the right one may require some preparation. Here are some things to consider.

What Is a Double Steel Door Exterior?

A double steel door exterior is a double-panel door made of steel or iron installed at the front (sometimes side or back) entrance of the house. It is worth noting that a double door provides a wider entrance than a single door.

Why Choose a Double Steel Door Exterior

• Wide Entryway: This door is great for moving furniture in and out, or just as a wide entryway.
• Symmetry and Exterior Beauty: When a door is made of two identical panels, it has a symmetry that is not easily found in a single door.
• Durability: Steel and iron are stronger than wood doors against weathering, forced entry, and everyday wear and tear.
• Natural Light: Many steel doors feature multiple glass windows, providing you with the benefits of natural light.

Benefits

In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, a durable and strong double steel door offers homeowners the following benefits:

• Durable design that will not warp or swell in any way;
• Energy savings through insulation and low-E glass;
• Higher value for your home due to a visually appealing entryway;
• Better sound insulation than hollow and thin doors.

Drawbacks to Consider

No matter how good a door looks, it will never be a good fit for every home. Some potential disadvantages are:

• More expensive than a single door of the same type;
• Requires a larger entrance; Most steel exterior doors do not have hurricane-resistant ratings;
• More labor is required when delivering and installing heavy doors.

Cost Considerations

Double-steel exterior door prices generally depend on size, the number of glass panels, and finish options. Standard 60 "x80" doors with 3 or 4 panels are the cheapest, while higher-end models like the 72 "x96" or 60 "x120" doors, and the Quivre line with copper handles, are more expensive.

Installation

The steps for installing a double steel door exterior are:

1. Make sure the initial size of the door (rough opening) is the same as the actual size of the door (not the nominal size).
2. Determine the door's swing (opening direction) - right or left inward.
3. Check that the jamb size will fit your wall structure (usually 2x4 or 2x6).
4. Lay the door flat and make sure it is straight and vertical before installing the hinges and seals.
5. Install weatherstripping and sweeps for sealing.

Since these doors are heavy, manufacturers usually recommend having 2-3 people help with installation.

Maintenance Tips

• To avoid damaging the low-e coating, keep glass lites clean using a non-abrasive cleaner.
• Check the weather stripping once a year, as the most common cause of cold air entering is a damaged seal.
• Repair any scratches in the powder coat immediately to prevent rusting.
• Lubricate hinges regularly to ensure smooth and quiet operation.

Buying Guide

First, measure the rough opening, then choose the glass lite based on personal preference (3-, 4-, 5-, or 8-lites are among the most popular options). Then choose the finish and hardware type. If the standard sizes do not match your rough opening, request a custom size – reliable manufacturers will provide you with a CAD drawing of the design.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mismeasurement of the entryway and ordering the wrong size
• Failing to realize that locks and handles come separately (although some models come pre-installed)
• Forgetting to check if your door needs thermal insulation
• Failing to consider the logistics of delivering a large double door

Why Buy from USA Builders Depot

USA Builders Depot offers a wide selection of double steel door exteriors – 3-lite, 4-lite, 5-lite, and 8-lite French doors - as well as the Cuivre Collection with copper handles. Doors are shipped with all necessary hardware. In-stock orders ship within 7-10 days, while customized orders take 8-12 weeks and include a CAD drawing for your approval. Since USA Builders Depot has a Trustpilot rating of 4.8/5, shipping is free to all 50 states in the United States.

FAQ

What's the difference between a double and a single steel door exterior?

A double steel door has two panels and is wider than a single door, which is relatively narrow at 32 to 36 inches. Its width can range from 60 to 72 inches.

Who Should Buy a Double Steel Door Exterior?

This type of door is recommended for homebuyers with wide entryways seeking a regal, symmetrical look, and for contractors building a home who want a blend of beauty and durability.

Do double steel doors come pre-insulated?

In most cases, yes. Double steel doors feature insulated panels with a high-density foam core and low-E glass.

Are these doors hurricane-rated?

Generally no. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, you should talk to your supplier.

What sizes are available?

The most common widths are 60 or 72 inches, and the heights are 80, 96, or 120 inches. You can have them custom-made through most suppliers.

Do I need to buy handles separately?

Yes. In most cases, double steel doors come with hinges, sweeps, seals, and weather stripping, but no handles or locksets.

How long does installation take?

If the initial framework is ready, an experienced professional can install a pair of steel doors in one day.

Is a thermal break necessary?

If you live in a cold climate, installing a thermal break in the frame will help prevent heat/cold from moving through the door frame.

How is the steel protected against rust?

Galvanized steel doors with a powder-coated surface provide long-lasting protection against rust.

Conclusion

Choosing a double steel door exterior will make a big difference in the beauty and functionality of your entryway. Be sure to measure properly and choose a glass lite style that suits your taste. Also, find out if you need a custom-sized door.

With the right supplier like USA Builders Depot, which can show you a CAD preview of the door, offer good insulation, and deliver reliably across the United States, you won't have to worry about anything.