How to Choose a Back Door: A Complete Guide

Published: November 12, 2020

By the Estate Millwork Design Team | Craftsmen since 1997

The back door or rear entry door to your home provides a secondary entrance and also allows you access to your patio, deck or backyard. Since the rear of your home is often a private space there isn't as much need to have a door that conceals the interior of your home from the neighbors or those passing by on the street, this gives you more design options when it comes to style and glass panes.

We feel the best material for exterior rear entry doors is solid hardwood, with proper care wooden doors can last a long time. Unlike steel doors wood won't rust and they are easy to repair should something happen to the finish, whereas if you dent a steel door you are pretty much stuck living with that dent.

French Doors as a Back Door Option

When it comes to your back door French doors are a great option, whether it is a single or double French door you are guaranteed to enjoy the view of your backyard with these doors. Since the style of this door incorporates multiple or larger glass panes it is a popular rear door option for homeowners looking to allow more light into the home, bring more of nature inside or simply just enjoy what can be a breathtaking view from your couch.

Standard Wooden Back Door Styles

These are probably the most commonly seen back door on homes today, as they are easy to install and can be readily swapped out for a new one if the existing door were to become damaged beyond repair. There are many different styles when it comes to rear wooden entry doors, you can choose to have no glass whatsoever, glass panes halfway down the door or maybe only a single row of glass panes along the top so you're only allowing in light and not prying eyes in the rear of your home.

When it comes to choosing a new solid wood rear entry door Estate Millwork offers several styles and finishes to choose from. Whether you want a solid door without any glass panes or a door full of glass panes from top to bottom, if you have any questions please contact us at sales@estatemillwork.com or 412.641.0177.

Back Door Security Features to Consider

A back door is often the entry point most targeted by intruders because it faces away from the street and is less visible to neighbors. Solid wood rear doors from Estate Millwork provide a significant security advantage over hollow-core or thin steel alternatives. The dense hardwood construction resists forced entry far better than lightweight materials. When selecting your rear door, consider a design without large glass panels if security is a primary concern, or choose tempered glass options that are much harder to break than standard panes.

Proper hardware is equally important for back door security. A quality deadbolt with a one-inch throw, reinforced strike plates with three-inch screws that reach the framing, and a door viewer or peephole all contribute to a safer rear entry. If you want natural light through your back door without compromising security, consider a door with glass panes only in the upper third, placed out of reach from the lock.

Choosing the Right Rear Door Material

The material you choose for your rear door affects its longevity, maintenance needs, and overall performance. Solid wood back doors remain the premium choice for homeowners who want both beauty and durability. Unlike steel, wood will not dent or rust from exposure to rain and humidity common at the back of a house. Unlike fiberglass, a real wood rear door can be sanded and refinished multiple times, extending its life by decades. For exterior rear doors that face heavy weather exposure, rot-resistant species like Mahogany, Teak, and Spanish Cedar are ideal choices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Back Doors

What is the best material for a back door?

Solid hardwood is the best material for a back door because it combines security, insulation, and lasting beauty. Wood rear doors resist dents better than steel, do not crack like fiberglass, and can be refinished if the surface wears. Rot-resistant species like Mahogany, Teak, and Spanish Cedar are especially well suited for exterior back door applications.

How much does a custom wood back door cost?

A custom solid wood back door from Estate Millwork typically ranges from $400 to $1,200 depending on size, wood species, and design. Use our online designer to configure your exact rear door specifications and receive an instant price quote with no waiting.

Should a back door have glass panels?

Glass panels in a back door allow natural light and views of your yard, making them a popular choice. If security is a concern, choose a rear door with glass panes only in the upper portion, above the lock. Tempered or laminated glass provides additional break-in resistance while still letting light into your home through the back door.

What is the standard size of a rear door?

The standard rear door opening is 36 inches wide by 80 inches tall, the same as most exterior doors. However, Estate Millwork builds every back door to your exact measurements, so whether your rear door opening is narrower, wider, or taller than standard, we can build a perfect-fit door.