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Most modern, standard doors are 1 ⅜-inches thick, so you should aim for this thickness unless you're building a door to replace an antique door or fit into a non-standard wall opening. Thickness varies when installing a pocket door or sliding barn door, so a good rule of thumb is to measure your existing door, if possible. For standard doors, you can also measure from the inside of the door to the door stop to gauge the proper thickness.

The best direction for a gate to swing depends on its location and purpose, but swinging inward is the general rule. An inward swing is often considered safer, prevents the gate from opening into public spaces like a sidewalk, and may be required by local building codes.

There are exceptions and specific considerations. If your property is on a slope, an inward swing might not be possible. For a deck gate, it's safest to have it swing away from any steps. In a backyard, the direction can be a matter of preference, though an inward swing can be helpful when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

Regardless of direction, ensure the gate can open fully without hitting any objects or blocking spaces. While an inward swing is standard, a gate that can swing both in and out offers the most flexibility if your setup allows for it.

A door sill is the bottom portion of your door frame, while a threshold is the transition piece that separates the two types of flooring between rooms, or serves as the transition between the interior and exterior on an exterior door. The threshold sits on top of the door sill. A kick plate is a protective plate that sits against the face of a door to prevent damage to the door from feet and shoes. You’ll usually only find kick plates on exterior doors, while every door has a door sill, and most exterior and interior doors have a threshold.

The best material for a patio door depends on several factors, including your budget, local climate, and priorities like style, security, and maintenance. Wood offers a classic, high-end look but requires regular upkeep. Vinyl is a popular choice as it's affordable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance, making it a durable option for active households. Fiberglass is another durable material that stands up well to heavy use. For superior security, steel is a low-maintenance option, though with fewer design choices. Finally, lightweight aluminum makes doors easy to open and close, which is ideal for homes with children. The right choice balances durability, aesthetics, ease of use, and the amount of maintenance you're willing to perform.