Should Doors Open Inwards or Outwards?

When deciding whether a new door should open inwards or outwards, it is essential to consider the advantages and disadvantages of both options.

Inward-opening doors vs. outward-opening doors

The choice between an inward-opening and an outward-opening door will depend on the installation location and whether it is for a commercial or residential setting. In this blog, we provide a comprehensive overview of when to choose an inward or outward-opening door, how the type of door influences this decision, and the specific requirements for residential and commercial environments.

Should exterior doors open in or out?

Typically, it is preferred for exterior doors to swing inward to improve security and shield the door from harsh weather. When a front door opens inward, its hinges are located inside the house, preventing potential intruders from manipulating the hinges to access your home. On the other hand, an exterior door that swings outward is quite challenging to forcibly open. Although the hinges are located outside, they are equipped with non-removable pins, making them less susceptible to tampering by burglars.
If you stroll down your local high street, you'll observe that public establishments often feature outward-opening exterior doors. This design ensures the safety of individuals in case evacuation from the building becomes necessary. Ideally, fire escapes should be equipped with fire doors that open outward to facilitate an efficient and safe evacuation route during a fire emergency.

Do External Doors Have to Open Inwards?

No. While exterior doors typically open inwards, we believe outward-opening front doors enhance security, particularly with our steel options, making it harder for intruders to break in. It’s also worth considering where you would need to save space in your home. For instance, you might prefer patio doors to open outwardly to help save space inside your home.

Should interior doors open in or out?

Interior doors typically swing inward within a house. This design choice is often made since most interior doors are located off hallways, and inward-swinging doors help conserve space in the hallway. Outward-opening doors can disrupt the flow of a home's layout as people move about. Additionally, an interior door that swings outward may infringe upon usable space.

Front Doors

Choosing between inward or outward-opening front doors is a matter of personal preference. Both options offer security against intruders. However, tests show that outward-opening steel doors provide better protection, as they are harder to break through and better withstand the elements.

Garage Entry Doors

A garage entry door would benefit from opening outwardly to save space within the garage. It also provides better protection from burglars who may attempt to force entry through the garage.

Inward vs. Outward – You decide

When choosing exterior doors, numerous factors need to be taken into account, and personal preference often plays a significant role. Security is likely the top priority to think about, particularly in residential settings, while the safety of others would be paramount if the door is being installed in a bustling shop or office.