Finding the right exterior double doors involves balancing curb appeal, security, insulation, and installation practicality. This guide highlights five top options, covering fiberglass, metal, and solid wood styles, along with key features to compare. Each option includes energy efficiency, durability, and ease of installation to help homeowners choose with confidence.
Summary of Selected Products
| Product | Material & Style | Key Features | Frame Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exterior Fiberglass Front Door 68x80in (KHSHOW) | Fiberglass, Hammered Glass | Durable, Low-E glass, knock-down assembly | Vinyl frame with brickmould |
| National Door Company Z029667L Fiberglass (Primed) | Fiberglass, Smooth | Interior blinds, left-hand in-swing | Prehung exterior door with blinds |
| VDOMDOORS Front Exterior Prehung (8088) | Metal-Plastic, Prehung | Ready to install, insulated, corrosion resistant | Metal frame |
| AINLARRY 72″ Dutch Door Slab | Solid Pine Wood, 1.75″ Thick | Dutch door split functionality, tempered glass | Door slab (for exterior use) |
| Lakenyon Exterior Doors 60″ x 80″ | Solid Wood & MDF, Clear Glass | SGCC-certified tempered glass, energy efficiency | Primed MDF core |
Exterior Fiberglass Front Door By KHSHOW
This left-hand inswing fiberglass front door combines durability with aesthetic appeal. The knock-down assembly includes sidelites and brickmoulds for a complete entry solution. Hammered glass adds character while Low-E glass reduces heat gain and UV exposure, improving energy efficiency. Note that door lock accessories are not included, so hardware must be selected separately.
National Door Company Z029667L Fiberglass Exterior Door
Primed fiberglass smooth-surface exterior door with left-hand in-swing and internal white mini blinds sealed between tempered glass. The full lite design allows natural light while maintaining privacy. It is a prehung unit, though not intended for commercial use, with astragal-operated double door configuration for accessibility and ventilation control.
VDOMDOORS Front Exterior Prehung Metal-Plastic Door Set
This prehung door unit arrives fully finished and ready to install, combining a metal frame with a protective outer shell. The design emphasizes weather resistance and durability, with included lock and hardware and a structure engineered to resist forced entry. Sidelites, if included, are shipped separately for flexible installation options.
AINLARRY 72″ Dutch Door Slab With Glass
This 72″(W) x 80″(H) Dutch door slab offers a split design with 4 hinges and a latch. Made from solid pine with tempered glass, its unfinished surface accepts stains or paint, enabling customization to match exterior styling. It is suitable for exterior use as part of a door system or in conjunction with additional framing and hardware.
Lakenyon Exterior Doors 60″ x 80″
Designed for front entry use, this 60″ x 80″ door panel leverages CARB P2-certified MDF with waterproof primer and UV coating to resist moisture and fading. The panel features clear tempered glass and is compatible with various locking hardware. It ships as a panel only, without hinges or handles, offering customizable installation options.
Buying Guide: Exterior Double Doors
Choosing exterior double doors involves evaluating material, security, energy performance, installation, and maintenance. Below are key considerations from multiple perspectives to help you decide what suits your home best.
Material and Durability
Fiberglass doors offer excellent resistance to dents, scratches, and weathering with relatively low maintenance. Metal doors provide high security and rigidity, often at a lower cost than solid wood. Solid wood or wood-composite doors deliver classic aesthetics but may require more maintenance to prevent warping and weather damage. For exterior doors, consider whether you need reinforcement to resist forced entry or want a design that accommodates sidelights and glass panels.
Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Low-E glass and insulated cores help reduce heat transfer and UV exposure, cutting energy costs and protecting interior furnishings. Doors with multi-pane glazing or internal blinds can offer privacy without sacrificing light. Always verify the door’s insulation value and whether the frame includes proper weatherstripping for a tight seal.
Security and Hardware
Look for reinforced frames, multi-point locking systems, and tamper-resistant hardware. Some products include pre-installed locks and handles, while others offer the door slab with hardware sold separately. Exterior doors should include robust weatherstripping and a solid threshold to deter drafts and pests.
Installation and Fit
Prehung units simplify installation, especially for larger double-door configurations. Pay attention to rough opening dimensions, jamb construction, and whether sidelites are included or shipped separately. Dutch doors offer a distinct style with indoor-outdoor advantages but require careful framing and hardware to function properly.
Aesthetic Considerations
Consider color, glass texture (hammered vs. clear or frosted), and overall door profile to match your home’s exterior. Sidelites can add natural light, but they also impact privacy and energy performance. Ensure the door’s finish and hardware coordinates with your exterior design.
Maintenance and Longevity
Fiberglass and steel doors generally require minimal maintenance and resist moisture-related issues better than bare wood. Wood doors may need periodic sealing or painting. Factor in local climate and exposure to sun, rain, and humidity when planning maintenance schedules.