A Tour of the Different Types of Door Swings

Door swings may not be something you consider daily, but they play a critical role in the functionality and aesthetics of your home or workspace. This guide will delve into the various types of door swings, how to determine the swing direction of your door, and why this knowledge is crucial when you're planning to install a new door or purchase door accessories.

What are Door Swings?

Door swings refer to the direction a door opens or closes. There are several types of door swings, each serving a specific purpose depending on the space and user requirements. Let’s get into the details of these types.

Standard Doors

Standard doors typically swing in four different ways:

1. Inward left: The door opens inside towards the left.
2. Inward right: The door opens inside towards the right.
3. Outward left: The door opens outside towards the left.
4. Outward right: The door opens outside towards the right.

Additionally, some internal doors can swing 180 degrees, allowing you to push or pull the door open from either direction.

Pivot Doors

Pivot doors are unique as they have hinges positioned on the top and bottom, rather than on one side. This design allows for two swing directions:

1. Inside swing: The door opens inwards.
2. Outside swing: The door opens outwards.

Like standard doors, pivot doors can also swing at a 180-degree angle, enabling the door to stand parallel to a wall when fully opened.

How to Determine Door Swing Direction

Understanding your door's swing direction is crucial, especially when you're considering a replacement or installation of a new door. Therefore, let’s break down the steps to figure out your door's swing direction.

Step 1 - Familiarize Yourself with the Terminology

Before we begin, it's essential to comprehend the following door swing terminologies:

• Inswing Doors: These doors open inwards. You need to push the door to open it from the outside.
• Outswing Doors: These doors open outwards, requiring you to pull them from the outside to open.
• Left-Hand Door: If the door hinges are on the left side when you face the door from outside, it's a left-handed door.
• Right-Hand Door: If the hinges are on the right side when you face the door from outside, it's a right-hand door.

Step 2 - Position Yourself Correctly

Start by standing outside the door when it's closed. For exterior doors, this would be the side facing the street. For interior doors, consider which room you're entering.

Step 3 - Determine if It's an Inswing or Outswing Door

Open the door from the outside. If you had to pull the door open, you have an outswing door. Conversely, if you pushed the door past its opening to enter the room, you have an inswing door.

Step 4 - Examine the Hinges

The position of the hinges can also tell you if a door is an inswing or outswing. If you can see the hinges from the outside, it's an outswing door. If the hinges are not visible, the door is an inswing door.

Step 5 - Identify the Hinge Side

The hinge side determines whether the door is left-handed or right-handed. If the hinges are on the right-hand side, it's a right-handed door. Conversely, if they're on the left, the door is left-handed.

Step 6 - Perform a Handedness Test

To understand how the swing and handedness combine, perform the following steps:

1. Stand outside and close the door.
2. Turn your back to the hinges and grab the knob with the hand that doesn't have to cross your body.
3. Open the door.

If you used your right hand and didn't have to step back, you have a right-handed inswing door. If you had to step back while opening the door with your right hand, it's a right-handed outswing door. If you used your left hand and had to step back, it's a left-handed outswing door. If you didn't have to move while using your left hand, it's a left-handed inswing door.

Importance of Understanding Door Swing

Identifying the correct door swing is crucial for several reasons. If you're planning to buy a new door, knowing the swing direction will ensure you make the right purchase. Similarly, if you're buying door levers or other accessories, your door's swing will determine the correct fitting.

Wrapping Up

Understanding the types of door swings and their applications can make a significant difference in your home or office's functionality. It's not just about opening and closing a door; it's about ensuring the door complements the space and flows seamlessly with your room's layout.

Whether you're looking for an inswing, outswing, or pivot door, Black Badge Doors got you covered they offer a wide range of interior and exterior doors. They also provide attractive door hardware, so you can find the perfect door knob for your door.

Remember, when it comes to doors, it's not just about choosing a design that suits your style. It's about finding a door that matches your lifestyle and daily routine, making your living or working space more comfortable and functional.

So, now that you know all about the types of door swings, why not explore your options and find the perfect door for your space? It might just be the upgrade you need.