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Every door type weathers differently. Wood doors, for example,
are more susceptible to the elements than steel or fiberglass. The
following are some guidelines for designing the best combination
of door material, overhang protection, and other factors affecting
the long-term performance of the door.
Overhang
An overhang as shown is
required for wood doors,
and recommended for
steel and fiberglass doors.
Overhangs protect the door’s
finish, minimize the need
for refinishing and help
keep the weather out of the
home. An example formula
for determining the correct
overhang (in many climates) is:
D (Depth) = 1/2H (Height). For
example, if the measurement
from the base of the door to
the bottom of the overhang
is 10 feet, then the overhang
should extend at least 5 feet.
This formula can change based
on the climate and the direction
the door faces. The following
section will explain how to
modify the formula based on
these factors.
Climate & Exposure
Also consider the variables specific to your region. The climate and
the direction a door faces play a key role in determining a proper
overhang. Typically, southern and western exposures are harshest.
With southern exposures, the sun beats down on the door from
sunrise to sunset. In western exposures, the door receives sunlight in
the hottest part of the day.
Please consult the following chart and adjust the depth of the
overhang as needed.
Direction the door faces
Climate North
South
East
West
Desert
D = 1/2H D = 2H D = 1/2H D = 2H
Ocean
D = 1/2H D = H
D = 1/2H D = H
Wet
D = H
D = H
D = H
D = H
Mild
D = 1/2H D = H
D = 1/2H D = H
Without adequate overhangs, doors with a southern,
southwestern, southeastern or western exposure will require
more frequent maintenance. Doors without appropriate
protection may also experience performance problems such
The information contained herein is provided solely for informational and/or educational purposes. JELD-WEN disclaims any and all liability associated
with the use and/or provision of this information. Any reliance upon the information or advice is at the risk of the party so relying. The information
contained herein may be changed from time to time without notification.
as rapid finish deterioration, color fading, wood splitting,
warping, moulding shrinkage, wood joint separation, and
water penetration between the mouldings, panels and glass.
With proper overhangs, doors may face any direction (north,
south, east or west). Doors installed in these types of
applications still require finish maintenance. Wood doors, for
instance, may need to be refinished every two to five years.
Color Choice
No matter what type of exterior door is selected, color choice may
effect how quickly the exterior of the door weathers in extreme
climates. In general, darker colors absorb more heat than lighter
colors. The exterior face of a door exposed to the sun in harsh
environments can reach temperatures well in excess of 120 degrees.
As a rule of thumb, if you cannot hold your hand on the face of the
door for more than 30 seconds, the door is too hot. These extreme
temperatures can cause noticeable damage to the door including
finish deterioration and accelerated color fading.
In addition, extreme temperature changes can cause warping,
sticking and other performance problems. For doors with little
protection or doors installed in hot environments, light colors may
help reflect the heat and slow down heat build-up. Depending
on the exposure and environment, other precautions (such as
overhangs) should be taken to protect the door from the effects of
the sun.
Storm Doors
Storm doors provide additional protection for exterior doors in
many climates. They shelter the door mainly from rain and wind,
though a storm door with dual pane Low-E glass will also block
UV rays. In hot climates, adding a storm door may not be a good
choice. Heat builds up between the two doors and can cause
substantial damage like warping, color fading, and wood joint
separation on the door. A storm door in front of a dark colored
exterior door can accelerate heat build up even more. Storm doors
selected for these situations should be vented to relieve excess
heat build-up.
Patio Doors
Steel and fiberglass French and Patio doors have the same
overhang requirements as the other entry door types. Provide
an adequate overhang to protect them from exposure. Some
patio doors are specially built to withstand water intrusion
and can be safely placed in locations with more exposure. For
more information, consult your product’s specific certification
information or contact us.
JELD-WEN Warranties
This document provides general information about measures that
can be taken to better protect exterior doors, but no warranties
are provided by this document. For specific product information
and available product warranties please refer to www.jeld-wen.
com or contact us at 1-800-JELD-WEN (1-800-535-3936).
APPROPRIATE PROTECTION
APPROPRIATE PROTECTION FOR EXTERIOR DOORS