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Yes, door sills are necessary components for most doorways. They serve several crucial functions, including weatherproofing, structural support, and aesthetic enhancement. Without a door sill, you risk water infiltration, drafts, and potential damage to the door and surrounding structure. Therefore, while they may seem small and often overlooked, door sills play a significant role in maintaining the integrity and functionality of a building's entryways.

Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.

The best place to install a dog door is on an exterior door that leads to a fenced-in area of your rear yard. This position will let your dog go in and out as they need and still keep them safe in your yard when they’re outside. You should plan on installing the bottom of the doggie door a minimum of 3 inches above the bottom of your exterior door to maintain the structural integrity of the door, and never cut out a hole within 3 inches of exterior door glass.

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.