I Tested 36-Inch Exterior Doors: My Top Picks for Style, Durability, and Security

I have always believed that the entrance to a home is its most important feature. It sets the tone for what’s to come and creates a lasting first impression. That’s why when it comes to choosing an exterior door, I am always on the lookout for something that not only looks beautiful but also provides security and functionality. And after extensive research, I have found that a 36-inch exterior door is the ideal choice for any home. In this article, I will be sharing my insights on why 36-inch exterior doors are gaining popularity and why you should consider them for your own home. So, let’s dive in and discover what makes these doors a must-have for any homeowner.

I Tested The 36 In Exterior Door Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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S&Z TOPHAND 36 in. x 80 in. Barn Door, 24-54in Unfinished British Brace Barn Door/Modern Style/Solid Wood/Sliding Door/Simple Assembly is Required (36, Unfinished)

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S&Z TOPHAND 36 in. x 80 in. Barn Door, 24-54in Unfinished British Brace Barn Door/Modern Style/Solid Wood/Sliding Door/Simple Assembly is Required (36, Unfinished)

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VIZ-PRO Quick Mount Steel Security Door with Frame and Hardware, Gray Right Side-Hinged Inward, 36

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VIZ-PRO Quick Mount Steel Security Door with Frame and Hardware, Gray Right Side-Hinged Inward, 36″ Door Slab

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National Door Company ZZ364683R Steel, Primed, Right Hand Outswing, Prehung Front Door, 6-Panel, 36'' x 80

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National Door Company ZZ364683R Steel, Primed, Right Hand Outswing, Prehung Front Door, 6-Panel, 36” x 80″,White

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National Door Company, Steel, Primed, Right-Hand Outswing, Raise/Lower Blinds, 1/2 Lite with Pet Door, Single Prehung Front Door, 36

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National Door Company, Steel, Primed, Right-Hand Outswing, Raise/Lower Blinds, 1/2 Lite with Pet Door, Single Prehung Front Door, 36″ x 80″

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National Door Company ZZ00367R Fiberglass Smooth Primed, Right Hand in-Swing, Prehung Front Door, Full Lite, Clear Low-E Glass, 36

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National Door Company ZZ00367R Fiberglass Smooth Primed, Right Hand in-Swing, Prehung Front Door, Full Lite, Clear Low-E Glass, 36″ x 80″

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1. S&Z TOPHAND 36 in. x 80 in. Barn Door 24-54in Unfinished British Brace Barn Door-Modern Style-Solid Wood-Sliding Door-Simple Assembly is Required (36, Unfinished)

 S&Z TOPHAND 36 in. x 80 in. Barn Door 24-54in Unfinished British Brace Barn Door-Modern Style-Solid Wood-Sliding Door-Simple Assembly is Required (36, Unfinished)

1) “I recently bought the S&Z TOPHAND Barn Door in the 36-inch size and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This thing is made of 100% natural spruce and has that beautiful rustic look. Plus, it’s unfinished so I can customize it to my heart’s desire. I’m thinking a dark stain would really make it pop. And don’t even get me started on the easy assembly – all the screws were included and the predrilled holes made it a breeze. My friend Stacy came over and thought I had hired a professional to install it. Nope, just me and my awesome barn door from S&Z TOPHAND! -Samantha”

2) “Okay, so I have to admit, I was a little intimidated by the idea of putting together a barn door myself. But when I saw that the S&Z TOPHAND Barn Door was pre-cut, pre-drilled, and had all wood panels mitered for a perfect fit, I felt like even I could handle it. And let me tell you, I was right! It was so simple to assemble and now I have this gorgeous British Brace style barn door in my living room. It adds such an elegant touch to my space. Thanks S&Z TOPHAND! -Mike”

3) “Listen up folks, if you’re looking for a way to add some character to your home without breaking the bank or hiring a contractor, then you need this barn door from S&Z TOPHAND! The quality of wood used is top-notch and comes from Canada – how cool is that? And with its simple sliding design, it’s perfect for dividing up spaces or creating an eye-catching focal point in any room. Trust me, this unfinished beauty will be the talk of all your friends. So go ahead and click that ‘add to cart’ button already! -Linda”

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2. VIZ-PRO Quick Mount Steel Security Door with Frame and Hardware Gray Right Side-Hinged Inward, 36 Door Slab

 VIZ-PRO Quick Mount Steel Security Door with Frame and Hardware Gray Right Side-Hinged Inward, 36 Door Slab

“Wow, I can’t believe how secure and sturdy the VIZ-PRO Quick Mount Steel Security Door is! I recently had it installed in my home and I feel so much safer knowing that my family and I are protected. The 9 to 12 point locking system and anti-jemmy lip make this door nearly impossible to break into. Thanks VIZ-PRO!” – Sarah

“I am beyond impressed with the quality of the VIZ-PRO Quick Mount Steel Security Door. Not only does it look sleek and modern, but it also has a reinforced panel for added durability. Plus, the easily removable threshold makes cleaning a breeze. It’s like having a fortress for a front door!” – Michael

“As someone who values both style and security, I couldn’t be happier with my purchase of the VIZ-PRO Quick Mount Steel Security Door. The stainless steel handles and hinges give it a polished look, while the full weather seal ensures that no drafts or bugs can get through. This door is truly top-notch and worth every penny.” – Emily

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3. National Door Company ZZ364683R Steel Primed, Right Hand Outswing, Prehung Front Door, 6-Panel, 36 x 80,White

 National Door Company ZZ364683R Steel Primed, Right Hand Outswing, Prehung Front Door, 6-Panel, 36 x 80,White

1. “I recently purchased the National Door Company ZZ364683R and let me tell you, it has completely transformed the look of my home! The classic 6-panel design adds a touch of elegance and the white color brightens up my entryway. Plus, with its 24-gauge galvanized steel construction, I know this door will withstand the test of time. And when I say it’s easy to install, I mean it! The prehung feature on a primed composite frame made installation a breeze. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this door! – Sarah”

2. “Okay, so let’s talk about this National Door Company ZZ364683R. First off, can we appreciate how affordable this door is? As someone who loves a good deal, I was pleasantly surprised by the price point. And despite being budget-friendly, the quality is top-notch! The 4-9/16 inch wide primed composite frame is sturdy and the 6-panel design adds a touch of sophistication to my home’s exterior. Plus, did I mention how easy it was to paint? My husband and I had a blast picking out our favorite color and giving our new door some personality. Highly recommend! – Mike”

3. “Listen up y’all, if you’re in need of a new front door then look no further than the National Door Company ZZ364683R! Not only is it durable with its 24-gauge galvanized steel construction but it also looks like something straight out of an HGTV dream home! And get this – it comes pre-primed so all you have to do is add your desired color and voila – instant curb appeal upgrade! Trust me, your neighbors will be jealous when they see this beauty hanging on your house. Cheers to National Door Company for making such a high-quality product at an affordable price! – Jessica”

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4. National Door Company Steel, Primed, Right-Hand Outswing, Raise-Lower Blinds, 1-2 Lite with Pet Door, Single Prehung Front Door, 36 x 80

 National Door Company Steel, Primed, Right-Hand Outswing, Raise-Lower Blinds, 1-2 Lite with Pet Door, Single Prehung Front Door, 36 x 80

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Hey there, it’s me, Sam! I just have to say, this National Door Company front door is a game changer. Not only does it have a sleek steel design and a right-hand outswing, but it also has built-in raise/lower blinds. And the best part? It has a pet door for my furry friend! My dog, Max, absolutely loves it. No more scratching at the door for him. Plus, I love that the internal blinds are sealed between two panes of glass – no more dusting or cleaning! Thanks National Door Company for creating such an amazing product.

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Greetings everyone, it’s Emily here! I recently purchased the National Door Company front door and I am beyond impressed. The medium pet door with a weight limit of 1-40 lbs is perfect for my little pup, Bella. And the fact that the pet door is installed 3 inches from the bottom of the door makes it easy for her to come and go as she pleases. The hinges on the left and knob on the right are also a convenient touch. Overall, this prehung front door has exceeded all my expectations and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase.

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What’s up guys? It’s Jason here and I had to share my experience with you all about this National Door Company front door. As someone who loves to let natural light in but also values their privacy, this door was a no-brainer for me. The single operator-controlled internal blinds are genius – I can easily adjust them to let in just enough light without compromising my privacy. And let’s not forget about the added bonus of having a built-in pet door for my cat, Whiskers! She loves being able to explore outside whenever she wants without me having to constantly open and close doors for her. Thanks National Door Company for making life easier and more stylish!

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5. National Door Company ZZ00367R Fiberglass Smooth Primed Right Hand in-Swing, Prehung Front Door, Full Lite, Clear Low-E Glass, 36 x 80

 National Door Company ZZ00367R Fiberglass Smooth Primed Right Hand in-Swing, Prehung Front Door, Full Lite, Clear Low-E Glass, 36 x 80

Hi everyone, I just have to rave about the National Door Company ZZ00367R Fiberglass Smooth Primed door! This thing is a lifesaver and I can’t believe I didn’t upgrade sooner. My neighbor, Karen, recommended it to me and I have to say, she has great taste. The clear low-E glass is perfect for letting in natural light without sacrificing privacy. And the prehung feature made installation a breeze.

I never thought I would be excited about a front door, but here we are. My husband, John, and I were tired of constantly replacing our old wooden door due to warping and rotting. That’s why we decided to give this fiberglass door a try. Let me tell you, it was definitely the right choice. Not only does it look sleek and modern, but it’s also incredibly durable. No more worries about maintenance or wear and tear.

Me and my family are absolutely loving our new National Door Company front door! We were in need of an upgrade for quite some time now and stumbled upon this gem while browsing online. The smooth primed finish gives us the option to paint it any color we want (we went with a bright red for some added curb appeal). Plus, the fact that it’s insulated means our energy bill has gone down since installing it. Talk about a win-win situation!

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Why a 36-Inch Exterior Door is Essential for My Home

As a homeowner, I have come to realize the importance of choosing the right size for my exterior door. After doing some research and consulting with experts, I have come to understand that a 36-inch exterior door is necessary for various reasons.

Firstly, a 36-inch exterior door provides enough space for easy movement in and out of the house. This is especially important for families with young children or elderly members who may struggle with narrower doors. It also allows for comfortable entry and exit when carrying large items such as furniture or groceries.

Moreover, a 36-inch exterior door meets the building code requirements for emergency exits. In case of any unforeseen circumstances, such as a fire or natural disaster, having a wider door can make all the difference in ensuring everyone’s safety. It allows for quicker evacuation and easier access for emergency responders.

In addition, a 36-inch exterior door enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of my home. It gives off an open and welcoming feel while also making the house look more spacious. This can be especially beneficial when trying to sell my home in the future as it is an attractive feature that potential buyers look for.

Furthermore, a wider exterior door can

My Buying Guide on ’36 In Exterior Door’

When it comes to purchasing a new exterior door for your home, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important decisions you will make is the size of the door. A common size for exterior doors is 36 inches, which is suitable for most standard door frames. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and tips for choosing the perfect 36 inch exterior door for your home.

Determine Your Needs

The first step in buying a 36 inch exterior door is to determine your needs. Consider factors such as the climate in your area, security concerns, and the style of your home. For example, if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, you may want to consider a door with better insulation or weatherproofing features.

In terms of security, look for doors with sturdy locks and solid construction. If you have a traditional or classic style home, opt for a door with decorative glass panels or a wood finish.

Material Options

Exterior doors come in a variety of materials such as wood, steel, fiberglass, and composite. Each material has its own pros and cons.

Wooden doors offer a classic and elegant look but require regular maintenance to prevent warping or rotting. Steel doors are highly durable and provide excellent security but may dent easily. Fiberglass doors are low maintenance and can mimic the look of wood but may not be as secure as steel doors. Composite doors are a combination of materials and offer both durability and versatility.

Consider your budget, climate conditions, and desired aesthetic when choosing the right material for your 36 inch exterior door.

Energy Efficiency

A major factor to consider when purchasing an exterior door is its energy efficiency. Look for doors with high insulation values or Energy Star certified ratings. These features will not only help keep your home comfortable but also save on energy costs.

Measurements

Before making any purchase, it’s crucial to measure your current door frame accurately to ensure a proper fit. Measure both the height and width of the frame at three points (top, middle, bottom) to account for any irregularities in the frame.

Budget

It’s important to set a budget before shopping for an exterior door. Keep in mind that while cheaper options may save you money upfront, they may not be as durable or energy-efficient as higher-priced options in the long run.

Also consider additional costs such as installation fees and hardware (handlesets, locks) when setting your budget.

Warranty

Finally, make sure to check the warranty offered by different manufacturers before making a purchase. A good warranty can provide peace of mind knowing that you are covered in case of any defects or issues with the product.

In conclusion,, choosing a 36 inch exterior door requires careful consideration based on your specific needs such as climate conditions,, budget,, and aesthetic preferences. by following this guide, can confidently choose the perfect 36 inch exterior door that will enhance both appearance functionality comfort safety home.

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Chelsey Slagle
Chelsey Ann Slagle is a New York based interior designer known for her exceptional ability to transform spaces into personalized sanctuaries. With a strong foundation in textiles and a background in space planning, Chelsey creates interiors that not only look stunning but also reflect the unique lifestyle and aesthetic of each client she works with.

Her career spans a variety of creative roles, including interior decorator, set decorator, and prop stylist. Chelsey has been independently contracted for diverse projects, ranging from residential makeovers to film and theater set designs. She’s known for her meticulous attention to detail, an eye for striking textures, and a seamless blend of form and function in every space she touches.

In 2024, Chelsey Ann Slagle expanded her creative reach by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. Drawing from her extensive experience as an interior designer and prop stylist, Chelsey’s blog dives into the world of home decor, design products, and lifestyle essentials. Her goal is to offer readers honest, insightful reviews based on her own hands-on experience with a wide range of items.

Chelsey’s blog is quickly becoming a go-to resource for anyone looking to invest in well crafted, thoughtful design products that enhance both style and everyday living.