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A butterfly hinge—also known as a surface mount hinge or dovetail hinge—is exactly what it sounds like: a hinge that resembles a butterfly. This type of decorative hinge, which is mounted on the surface of a door or cabinet, consists of two panels. One panel is mounted on a stable surface like a door frame and the other is mounted on the surface you need to open. It hinges open and closed like the wings of a butterfly.

Standard door sizes aren’t one-size-fits-all, but there are common go-to dimensions. For exterior doors—like your front door—36 inches wide by 80 inches tall is typical, though you’ll see 30- or 32-inch widths too, especially in older homes. Interior doors vary more. Bedrooms and bathrooms often use 30- to 32-inch widths, and closet doors can be anything from slim singles to wide bi-folds. Height is usually 80 inches across the board; however, always measure your actual opening. “Standard” only works if it matches what’s already in place.

Steel doors are among the most durable and longest-lasting options available, with a typical lifespan ranging from 30 to 100 years. Their longevity depends on factors such as the quality of the door, proper installation, climate, and the amount of use it receives.

While known for their resistance to wear and tear, steel doors can get dented and scratched over time. It is important to maintain them by regularly cleaning, checking the seals, and repainting them if the paint peels to prevent rusting.

To maintain commercial doors and prolong their lifespan, regularly inspect and tighten hinges, lubricate locks and moving parts, and check weatherstripping for air leaks. For automatic doors, it is also important to clean the sensors to prevent costly repairs.