Doors play a vital role in building construction, serving as accessible barriers that provide entry to various rooms and spaces. They connect the internal areas of a structure, facilitating movement and ensuring privacy and security. This article explores the various types of doors categorized based on the placement of components, construction methods, working operations, and materials used.
Types of Doors Based on Placement of Components
Battened and Ledged Doors
Battened and ledged doors are constructed using vertical wooden battens joined together by horizontal ledges. The battens typically measure between 100 to 150 mm in width and 20 to 30 mm in thickness, while the ledges range from 100 to 200 mm in width and 25 to 30 mm in thickness. This type of door is particularly suitable for narrow openings, providing a simple yet effective barrier.
Battened, Ledged, and Braced Doors
To enhance rigidity, braces are added diagonally across the structure of battened and ledged doors. These braces are generally 100 to 150 mm wide and 25 to 30 mm thick. The upward placement of braces from the hinge side allows them to act as struts, effectively taking on compressive forces. Such doors are ideal for wider openings, providing increased strength and stability.
Battened, Ledged, and Framed Doors
This type of door incorporates a framework of vertical components known as stiles, which support the battens and ledges. The stiles typically have a width of 100 mm and a thickness that matches the combined thickness of the ledges and battens, ideally around 40 mm. The addition of a frame enhances the overall strength and durability of the door.
Battened, Ledged, Braced, and Framed Doors
Combining all the features of the previous types, this design includes battens, ledges, braces, and a robust frame. The braces are positioned diagonally between the ledges, about 40 mm from the stiles, providing maximum rigidity and making this door suitable for larger openings.
Types of Doors Based on Construction Method
Framed and Panelled Doors
Framed and panelled doors are renowned for their strength and aesthetic appeal, making them a popular choice in a variety of buildings. The door frame consists of vertical members (stiles) and horizontal members (rails), which are grooved to receive panels made from timber, plywood, A.C. sheets, or glass. These doors can be single-leaf for narrow openings or double-leaf for wider entrances, with stiles typically measuring at least 100 mm in width and bottom and lock rails at least 150 mm.
Glazed Doors
Glazed doors are commonly used in interior openings of buildings like hospitals and colleges. These doors may be fully glazed or feature a combination of glass panels and wooden or metal frames. The transparent nature of glazed doors allows visibility and light transmission, enhancing the aesthetics of the interior.
Flush Doors
Flush doors consist of a solid, semi-solid, or hollow core that is covered on both sides with plywood or face veneer. These doors are favored for their modern appearance, affordability, and durability. They come in two varieties: solid core, made from glued timber strips, and hollow core, which includes spaced battens with a void area that does not exceed 40% of the door’s total area.
Louvered Doors
Louvered doors feature slats that allow for natural ventilation while maintaining privacy. These doors are commonly found in residential bathrooms and public buildings. Louvers can be made of wood, glass, or plywood and can be fixed or movable, depending on the design requirements.
Wire Gauged Doors
Wire gauged doors are designed to facilitate natural ventilation while preventing the entry of insects and pests. These doors are widely used in commercial settings such as hotels and restaurants, as well as in cupboards containing food items.
Types of Doors Based on Working Operation
Revolving Doors
Revolving doors are primarily found in public buildings with high foot traffic, such as banks and museums. They consist of a central mullion with four radiating shutters, allowing multiple people to enter and exit simultaneously without disrupting the flow of air.
Sliding Doors
Sliding doors operate by moving along runners and guide rails, providing efficient access to larger openings. Depending on the space available, these doors can feature one or more sliding shutters, making them a versatile option for residential and commercial buildings.
Swing Doors
Swing doors are hinged to a frame, allowing them to open in both directions. These doors are equipped with double-action springs, enabling easy access from either side and making them ideal for high-traffic areas.
Collapsible Steel Doors
Collapsible steel doors are commonly used in workshops, sheds, and warehouses. They function like a curtain, opening or closing with a horizontal pull or push. These doors are constructed with vertical double channel units and braced with flat iron diagonals for added strength.
Rolling Steel Shutter Doors
Rolling steel shutter doors are widely used in garages, warehouses, and shops. They offer robust security and are composed of a frame, drum, and thin steel plate shutter that interlocks. A horizontal shaft within the drum facilitates the opening and closing of the shutter.
Types of Doors Based on Material
Wooden Doors
Wooden doors encompass various types based on their design and construction methods, providing natural aesthetics and insulation.
Glass Doors
Glass doors, particularly glazed ones, provide visual access and light transmission, making them ideal for certain interior applications.
Metal Doors
- Mild Steel Sheet Doors: Constructed with an angle iron frame, with mild steel plates welded onto the shutter frame for added strength.
- Corrugated Steel Sheet Doors: Similar to mild steel sheet doors but utilize corrugated sheets for enhanced durability.
- Hollow Metal Doors: Made from hollow steel sections, these doors are reinforced by welding smaller T or I sections inside, ensuring structural integrity.
- Metal Covered Plywood Doors: This composite construction combines the features of hollow metal doors with wooden doors, encased in tight-fitting sheet metal to enhance fire resistance.
Conclusion
In summary, the variety of doors used in building construction serves specific purposes, influenced by factors such as placement, construction methods, operational requirements, and materials. Understanding these types of doors can aid in making informed choices when selecting doors for various building applications, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Whether for residential, commercial, or industrial settings, the right door can significantly enhance a building’s design and usability.