Entryway

The Grand Debate: Are Double Front Doors Right for Your Home?

Published: February 6, 2024

Updated: January 2, 2024

We can all agree that double front doors are the epitome of style and sophistication. They are a common addition to estate-like homes, and their curb appeal is truly outstanding. Though they exude elegance, they aren’t necessarily practical for everyone.

“While double doors can enhance your home’s curb appeal with their grand and impressive presence, their installation requires careful consideration,” advises interior designer Ellen Matthews. “Ensure your entryway has sufficient space to accommodate their larger size without creating congestion or disrupting furniture placement,” Matthews notes.

Our readers and interior designers were kind enough to share their raw and honest opinions regarding their installation, function, and feasibility in various climates. Just by skimming the surface of the details surrounding French doors, it became quickly apparent that they include a certain security risk depending on the lock systems and the materials used to construct them. In addition, they inhibit the use of screen doors and require a decent amount of floor protection. These potential drawbacks aside, no one can negate the reciprocal beauty that resonates with homeowners and visitors alike. Here at Soul and Lane, we hope that you gather enough information to determine whether or not this is a trend that works for you!

01 of No Regrets!

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Having French doors at the entryway of your home is certainly a special feature that not all can enjoy. Homeowner Lydia recognizes their beauty and functionality by sharing this sentiment. “I love them. Moving in was easier, and having elderly family over is easier. No issues and no regrets.” They also have fantastic curb appeal and add a great deal of character to your home.

“Double doors can impart a grand, balanced entrance, particularly for larger homes, fostering an open and inviting ambiance,” shares interior designer Neha Kaimal. They are also effective in maximizing natural light, contributing to a more spacious feel.

02 of Finding Appropriate Decor

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Once you settle on a door color and style, it is time for exterior decor. A typical accent is a welcoming mat and wreaths. One of our contributors shares her experience with this process on her double doors, noting, “I love the look of ours…but hate buying double wreaths, and I have a hard time finding wide enough mats.” If you’re crafty, you may be able to DIY wreaths for a lower price, as well as sew your own mats that cover the entire area.

03 of Weather Issues

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Homeowner Michelle questioned our slew of experts to gather opinions about the functionality of double doors in a state with severe winters. “We are in Wisconsin and I worry about weather being an issue with double doors.” It’s important to consider wind, freezing temps, and potential storms as issues that could impact the stability and longevity of this design trend.

04 of Very Inviting

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In a temperate climate, double doors are especially serene because of the fresh air they permit. Contributor Colleen loves them for that exact reason. She notes her home has “Good airflow and [is] very inviting with doors open.” They provide beautiful access to the outdoors and create the appearance of an upscale living experience.

05 of Don’t Miss It

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On the opposite end of the spectrum, homeowners don’t take full advantage of their double doors due to additional entry access, whether in the garage or at the back of the house. Homeowner Tiffany explains, “I had them and, other than moving in the first day, never opened them. We did without on our new house, and I don’t miss it.” She quickly switched back to a single door and hasn’t looked back!

06 of Ensuring a Sturdy Lock

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One very important thing to consider when installing French doors is how much glass they have as well as the center mechanism that holds the doors latched. You’ll want something sturdy and strong, and potentially try to find a supplier that offers a steel post. These doors are also very heavy, so allow for the appropriate amount of hinges. They usually need four instead of three for improved stability.

07 of Establishing Privacy

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It is common for double doors to have large glass panes, which can allow in both abundant natural light as well as giving too much visibility into your home. There are various ways to protect your privacy, but one method is to install double waterfall glass so that strangers cannot see inside your home. There are also opaque stickers you can install on the inside, which will make the glass foggy. These are just a few details to consider, as well as ensuring you have a sufficient locking system, including an interior lock, if possible.

08 of So Regal and Attractive

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Visibility, weather, and locking aside, Heather exclaims how double doors are: “So Regal…Double wreaths are always so beautiful!” They trend towards homes that are larger and located in sophisticated neighborhoods, though in the 60s and 70s, they were a staple in many architectural home designs. As we return to many mid-century details in our modern aesthetic, double doors are making a forceful comeback.

09 of No Screen Door

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If you’re a fan of a fresh spring or fall breeze in your home, double front doors can be wonderful, but they pose a slight dilemma. Homeowner Meagan states, “I also like to open my doors for fresh air, so I need to have screen doors.” Due to their build, double front doors do not allow for screens, so a single-door option may be more appropriate if you agree with Meagan and are concerned about dust and bugs entering your home.

10 of Threat of Break-ins

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Our readers are on high-threat detection! Designer Judy also mentioned the vulnerabilities of French front doors, noting, ‘My husband worries they’ll be easy to break because of the glass.” If you love the look, opt for a selection that doesn’t have glass. Heavy wooden doors are available and look great on a house made of brick or vinyl siding.

11 of Lots of Dirt

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Here at Soul and Lane, we are all about style, but we also appreciate the feasibility of designs that are low-maintenance and functional. Our dear reader Tracy agrees, and after installing double doors, realized, “I wish I had one large single with a couple of windows on either side… it doesn’t seal, and I’m always sweeping.” If a specially designed home element isn’t practical for you after installation, there is no shame in finding an alternative that works better for your lifestyle.

12 of Door With Sidelight Alternative

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There are undoubtedly several pros to installing front double doors, but it’s apparent that there are drawbacks also. If you’re looking for a similar alternative, Designer Monica shares a great hack that her client included in her home instead. “One of my clients did one large door with two sidelights. One of the sidelights opens if needed to move furniture or other large items. It’s genius!” This allows for plenty of light to enter your home, permits greater spatial opportunity, but also allows for a better seal, protecting your entryway from the elements and minimizing break-in risk.
Double front doors are clearly a stylish addition to any house, giving the exterior of your home an elegant curb appeal that is sure to stand out.