BUYING GUIDE
FRONT DOORS – MADE HERE, IN QUEBEC

CONFIGURATIONS

Here’s some useful information on the various available door configurations. Whether you’re looking for a single or double door with or without a fanlight or sidelight, you’ll be able to make an informed decision. Front doors are offered in a wide variety of configurations to fit all different types of openings.

Possible configurations

The same opening can be fitted with a vast array of different doors, depending on the desired style and your needs in terms of light and privacy.

DOORS WITH WINDOWS

Here’s some useful information on the various available window openings for your front door. Whether you’re looking for a lot of natural light or privacy and security, you’ll be able to make an informed decision.
 

Window dimensions and configurations

These examples of door windows in various sizes are just a small sampling of the formats that can be applied to a number of different door models.

Having a window in your front door allows you to personalize the appearance of the door and increase the amount of natural light it lets in. We give you access to a vast selection of decorative windows to harmonize with your home. The level of privacy and luminosity depends on the opacity of the glass, while the level of security depends on the size of the pane.

DOORS WITHOUT WINDOWS

Here’s some useful information on the most popular models of front doors without windows. If you’re looking for privacy and security, you’ll be able to make an informed decision. Front doors are offered in a wide variety of configurations to fit different types of openings.

Any high-quality door that’s properly installed is secure. However, the level of security will vary depending on the format of the window in the door.

Embossing, relief, trim and applied molding

If you’re looking for a front door without a window, several models are available to you. Different types of embossing, reliefs, trim and applied molding can lend a contemporary, modern or classic accent to the façade of your home.

Come meet with one of our door and window experts, who will help you to determine which model from our immense selection of products will respond best to your needs.

OPENING DIRECTION

Here’s some useful information and advice on the available options for determining the direction in which your front door will open. Front doors generally open toward the inside of the home, but you’ll sometimes see mechanisms that open outward, as well.

Left/Right

The first question to ask is which side the hinges should go on. Whether they go on the left or the right will depend on which direction you want the door to open.

• When you talk to your representative, keep in mind that, in the door industry, the hinges are viewed from the outside of the door. So when you talk about having the hinges on the right and the door opening to the left, this refers to how it appears from the outside.

Inward opening: RECOMMENDED

It’s usually recommended to have the door open toward the inside of the home, as it’s easier to open from the inside.

Outward opening: NOT RECOMMENDED

This option is available; however, since the door is exposed to the elements, the warranty won’t cover water leaks or warping.

HARDWARE & OPTIONS

Here’s some useful information on hardware options to help you make an informed decision. You can discuss this with your Portes et Fenêtres Verdun representative.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Here’s some useful information and advice on energy efficiency to help you make an informed decision when choosing a door.

Doors and energy efficiency

The measurement of energy efficiency in an exterior door is slightly different from that of a window. Whether a door receives Energy Star certification or not is based on the new regulations that went into effect in January 2020 and depends on the glazed surface and model of the door. Discuss it with your Portes et Fenêtres Verdun representative.

The door manufacturing process

The secret to good energy efficiency in an exterior door lies in the way it’s assembled, in accordance with the manufacturing process used at the factory. First, the frame is assembled, followed by the panels. Next, the door is weather-proofed, caulked, outfitted with weather-stripping and then tested to make sure that everything is in compliance with regulations. If the door has a window, the window must also be of superior quality.

Whether the door you purchase is Energy Star-certified or not, it will automatically lose all of its advantages if it isn’t properly installed. If the door isn’t perfectly straight, if there isn’t enough urethane insulation around the edges or if the door sweep and weather-stripping don’t fit snugly, the door can let in drafts, resulting in significant heat loss. That’s why it’s absolutely essential to have it installed by a professional.

Minimum values for meeting the new Energy Star requirements.

MEASUREMENTS

Here are some tips to help you take measurements of your door before you visit the store.

ESTIMATES

A cheaper estimate is always appealing, but you need to make sure that the lower estimate offers all of the same elements and that they’re of comparable quality.

Here are the things you should look for in an estimate:

• All of the elements that are specific to your project
  The number and type of doors, their format, the direction in which they open and their orientation.
• Installation method
  All of the relevant details that are specific to your project.
• All of the finishing elements
  Colors, interior and exterior molding, grilles, slot covers, integrated blinds, frames, architectural details, models, finishes, etc.
• All of the hardware elements
  Knobs, handles, locks, screens, models, finishes, etc.
• Warranty
  The warranty on parts and installation.
• Permits
  Information related to obtaining permits in accordance with your local municipal regulations.
• GENERAL CONTRACTOR’S LICENSE
  The number of the company’s license from the Quebec Building Authority (RBQ).
• CCQ
  Owners of rental or income-generating buildings must comply with the regulations of the Quebec Construction Commission (Commission de la construction du Québec).
• Financing
  If discussed with your representative, the financing option, including the amount, interest rate and payment schedule.

INSTALLATION

Having a door installed by a team of professionals is essential for ensuring the optimum durability and performance of the product.