A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Swing from the Exterior for Your PINKYS Double Exterior Steel Doors
When designing a home or commercial space, the function and style of your entryway play a crucial role in both aesthetics and usability. For double exterior doors, the door swing—the direction and arc through which a door moves when opened and closed—is one of the most important considerations. Choosing the correct swing ensures ease of access, maximizes space, and guarantees a smooth operation for your PINKYS steel doors.
What is a Door Swing?
A door swing refers to the path a door follows when opening and closing. It includes both the direction the door moves—either inward or outward—and the side on which the hinges are installed. Door swing not only impacts the flow of traffic but also affects space planning, safety, and accessibility. For PINKYS Air Series double exterior doors, understanding the swing from the exterior of the door is critical to selecting the ideal configuration for your property.
Types of Double Exterior Door Swings (Exterior Perspective)
At PINKYS, all of our exterior steel Air Series double doors are available in four swing options. Each swing type has a main active door and a secondary inactive door, with flush bolts securing the inactive door when not in use. All swing directions described below are from the perspective of a person standing outside the door looking in, which is the standard for all PINKYS installations.
Right Hand In Swing (Exterior Perspective)
In a right hand in swing, the right door is the main active door when viewed from the exterior. The door has hinges on the right interior side and swings inward, away from the exterior, toward the interior of your space.
The left door serves as the inactive door, with hinges on the left interior side. It is secured with flush bolts at both the top and bottom. When the flush bolts are disengaged, the inactive door swings inward from left to right, allowing a full double-door opening.
Left Hand In Swing (Exterior Perspective)
For a left hand in swing, the left door is the main active door when standing outside the door. It swings inward toward the interior of your space, with hinges on the left interior side.
The right door is the inactive door, secured with flush bolts at both the top and bottom. Unlocking the flush bolts allows the right door to swing inward from right to left, providing full access when needed.
Right Hand Out Swing (Exterior Perspective)
In a right hand out swing, the right door is the main active door when viewed from the exterior, swinging outward toward the exterior of your space. Its hinges are located on the right exterior side.
The left door remains inactive with hinges on the left exterior side, secured with flush bolts at the top and bottom. Disengaging these bolts allows the inactive door to swing outward from left to right, complementing the main active door.
Left Hand Out Swing (Exterior Perspective)
The left hand out swing has the left door as the main active door when standing outside the door. It swings outward, away from the interior, with hinges on the left exterior side.
The right door is the inactive door, secured with flush bolts. When unbolted, the right door swings outward from right to left, allowing for full double-door access.
Choosing the Right Swing for Your PINKYS Steel Doors
Selecting the correct swing type depends on your space layout, traffic flow, and personal preference. Consider the following factors when choosing your door swing:
- Entryway Traffic: Determine which side will serve as the main access point and how people will enter and exit.
- Interior Space: Ensure your door swing does not interfere with furniture, walls, or other architectural elements inside your property.
- Exterior Clearance: Check that outward-swinging doors do not obstruct walkways, patios, or driveways.
- Accessibility: Consider which swing option makes the space more accessible for all users, including those with mobility challenges.
Why Understanding Door Swings from the Exterior Matters
Properly selecting a door swing from the exterior perspective avoids confusion and ensures correct ordering and installation. Misunderstanding the perspective can lead to:
- Doors opening in the wrong direction
- Inactive doors installed on the wrong side
- Operational issues and installation delays
By clearly understanding the exterior perspective, customers can make confident choices and enjoy a functional, aesthetically pleasing entryway.
Conclusion
Double exterior doors offer both style and practicality for homes and commercial spaces. By following this guide and understanding all four swing options from the exterior of the door, you can confidently choose the configuration that best suits your PINKYS steel doors and your property’s layout. Proper selection ensures smooth operation, accessibility, and a beautiful entryway that enhances your space.
Trust PINKYS Iron Doors for precision-crafted steel doors that deliver both durability and style.
