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Residential exterior doors should swing inward. While this cuts into your living space and prevents you from putting furniture near the inside of your door, it also means that the hinges will only be accessible from the interior. Hinges that sit on the outside of your home leave your property far less secure, as someone looking to get in could simply unscrew them and remove your door. Additionally, inswing exterior doors will be operable even if you have snow or other obstructions outside.

The vast majority of hinges are symmetrical, and either side of the hinge can go on the door or the frame. Occasionally, you'll find a hinge specifically made for right or left-handed doors with different attachment hardware or larger plates on one side. In most cases, the large side of the hinge goes on the frame.

It is possible to install hinges backward, so be careful when placing them. Position the hinge so that the hinge pin faces the direction the door will swing. For example, if you're standing on the side the door will open into, the pin should be visible. Be extra careful when installing exterior doors, as placing the hinges on the outside for an outward-facing door makes your home much easier to break into.

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.

You can use any wood to make an interior door, provided it’s the right thickness. Common options for painted doors include pine or poplar for the stiles, rails, and mullions, and paint-grade plywood for the panels. You can also opt to make your own panels out of pine or poplar if you intend on staining the door instead. Opting for oak, maple, or another hardwood is another great option for a high-end door that will last for decades, but the wood will cost significantly more.