Exterior doors are an important part of any home, as they not only provide security, but can also improve the aesthetic appearance and value of the property.
There are several different types of aluminum doors that you can choose for your home: sliding, hinged, and pivot doors, among others.
Which do you think is the best option? We clarify the doubts below.
What Are the Best Types of Exterior Doors?
Choosing the best type of exterior door will depend on several factors, such as the available space, the design of the home, the budget, and the desired functionality.
As we know that this decision is not easy, we will analyze each type of exterior door so that you can decide which one is the most suitable for your home.
Types of Exterior Doors
There are three main types of exterior doors: folding/folding, sliding and pivoting.
Each of them has its own characteristics and benefits that, depending on the type of home and the space you want to occupy, you should choose one or the other.
Foldable/Folding Exterior Doors (Features)
Folding or folding doors are the most common in homes. They are made up of one or more leaves that open to the inside or outside of the house by means of hinges.
Ideal for those homes looking for an economical and easy-to-install solution. It should not be forgotten that they also offer a wide variety of designs and styles, which makes them ideal for any type of home.
If you are looking for good thermal and acoustic insulation, folding doors are the best alternative, apart from providing full security, guaranteeing your peace of mind and that of your loved ones.
Exterior Sliding Doors (features)
Sliding doors are made up of one or more leaves that slide along a track in the wall. They are ideal for those places that have little space available as they do not take up additional space when opened or closed.
On the other hand, they can be more expensive than folding ones and may require more maintenance, due to the rails and the mechanism used for closing and opening them.
Exterior Swinger Doors (features)
People who decide to buy a pivot door are looking for a unique and sophisticated design, apart from the guarantees that aluminum gives as a material. They are perfect for modern or minimalist homes.
Pivot doors have a vertical axis of one or two leaves that rotate around a center located at the top and bottom of the leaf. Instead of conventional hinges, pivot doors are moved by special fittings.
Due to their design, they offer a wider opening and a modern, sleek look. In addition, they can support larger leaf weights and sizes compared to conventional doors.
Outdoor pivot doors are an excellent option to achieve an impressive and distinctive result on the façade of your home or building, as it is the first thing you see when you enter.
Finally, you should consider that these doors offer high security in your home and are very resistant to extreme weather.

Considerations for Choosing Between Exterior Door Types
Before choosing a type of exterior door, it is important to consider several factors to make an informed decision:
- Available space: in your home is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an exterior door. If you are short on space , sliding doors may be the best option.
- Security: Be sure to choose a door with a secure locking system to protect your home and family.
- Style and design: Try to choose a door that complements the architectural style of your home or business.
- Functionality: Do you need a door with good thermal insulation? Do you want a door that can withstand the local climate? Do you need a door that can be easily opened and closed? All these questions will help us make the best decision based on this criterion.
Which is better, sliding or folding doors?
The choice between sliding or hinged doors will depend on the space available in your home and the specific needs of your home or business.
If you are short on space or want to take advantage of every available gap in your home, sliding doors may be the best option, as they slide along a track and do not take up space when opened and closed.
On the other hand, if you want an economical and easy-to-install solution, swing doors are a good option, as they do not require rails or rails and are attached directly to the wall or door frame. These doors also offer a variety of designs and materials to suit different styles of homes and businesses.
Exterior Door Opening Systems
When choosing an exterior door, it is important to consider not only the type of door, but also the right opening system for your needs.
These systems can include automatic locking mechanisms, electric opening systems, and remote-controlled opening systems.
Most exterior doors come with standard handles and locks. There are other opening systems available that can offer greater comfort and safety:
- Automatic closing systems are ideal for those looking for an exterior door that closes on its own after opening it, which is very useful if there are children or pets in the home and you want to prevent them from being exposed to dangers.
- Electric opening systems allow doors to be opened and closed hands-free. They are ideal for people with physical disabilities or for those who carry bulky objects.
- Remote control opening systems are a convenient and safe option, as they allow you to open and close the door from the car without having to get out. They are ideal for rainy days or when you need to leave in a hurry.
Ultimately, when choosing an opening system for your outdoor door, it is important to consider your specific needs and budget, as by selecting the right opening system, you can improve the comfort and security of your home.
Conclusions for choosing an Exterior Door
Choosing the right exterior door for your home can be a challenging task, but by considering important factors such as available space, budget, and desired functionality, you can make an informed decision.
In addition, by choosing between casement, sliding and pivoting exterior doors, and opening systems, you can customize your choice to meet your specific needs.
At Portalum you can consult your doubts and get professional advice on which is the best option for your home.