3 Ways To Determine Door Swing Direction & Choose the One That’s Right for You

Key Takeaways

• The door swing direction is identified by observing which side the hinges are on and the direction the door opens.
• Correct door swing allows better use of space and smooth traffic flow.
• Choosing the right door swing can improve room aesthetics and safety.
• Panda Windows & Doors has been providing quality doors across the US for over 30 years.

Why Door Swing Direction Matters

The direction of a door swing is important for several practical reasons such as safety, space efficiency, and accessibility.

For instance, doors in commercial buildings often swing outward for quick exits during emergencies when panic can cause crowding.

In residential settings, the choice of whether a door swings inward or outward can affect the usability of the space. Inward-swinging doors may make small rooms feel cramped while outward-swinging doors can enhance accessibility and visibility in closets and bathrooms.

And finally - but super importantly - the swing direction can impact the ease of entry for first responders during emergencies.

Since our founding in 1991, Panda Windows & Doors has specialized in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces. Operating from our manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Our product offerings, which include over 80 high-end options, such as pivot doors, French doors, folding doors, lift & slides, multi-slides, horizontal sliding walls, and operable windows, are available in a range of materials, including aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, solid wood, and aluminum-wood clad.

Our company is widely recognized for its award-winning designs, engineering solutions, and rapid delivery times. We ensure that our customers throughout the U.S. and Caribbean receive their products within 6-10 weeks. Our company is trusted by leading architectural firms and glaziers nationwide, and we stand as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.

Learn About Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today

Types Of Door Swings

1. Inward Left: The door opens inside towards the left. The hinges are on the left, and the handle is on the right when viewed from the outside.
2. Inward Right: The door opens inside towards the right. The hinges are on the right, and the handle is on the left when viewed from the outside.
3. Outward Left: The door opens outside towards the left. The hinges are on the left, and the handle is on the right when viewed from the outside.
4. Outward Right: The door opens outside towards the right. The hinges are on the right, and the handle is on the left when viewed from the outside.
5. 180-degree Swing: Some doors can swing 180 degrees, allowing them to be pushed or pulled open from either direction.

3 Ways To Determine Door Swing Direction

Inward swing is more common than outward swing.

1. Inward or Outward Swing: Stand outside the door. If you push the door to enter, it’s an inward swinging door (inswing). If you pull the door to enter, it’s an outward swinging door (outswing). For interior doors, stand in front of the door, with the destination room considered the interior (so if you’re in the hallway and want to go into your bedroom, the bedroom direction is going to be considered the interior, and the hallway the exterior; if the door opens towards the bedroom, then it’s an inward swing, and if opens towards the hallways, it’s an outward swing).Read More: 12 Types of Interior Door Styles
2. Left-Handed or Right-Handed:

Open the door and stand with your back to the hinges.

• If the doorknob is closer to your left hand, it’s a left-handed door.
• If the doorknob is closer to your right hand, it’s a right-handed door.

1. Hinge Placement: Stand outside the door while facing it and check which side the hinges are on. If the hinges are on the left side, it is a left-handed door. If they’re on the right, it’s a right-handed door.

Choosing The Right Door Swing For Your Space

1. Analyze the Room Layout: Evaluate the furniture arrangement, window placement, and overall layout of the room. Make sure that the door will not obstruct pathways or bump into furniture when opened.
2. Consider Traffic Flow: Think about how people will naturally move through the space. The door should swing in a direction that makes for smooth traffic flow.
3. Prioritize Safety and Accessibility: For exterior doors or doors separating private and public spaces, consider safety and accessibility standards. Check any official building codes or guidelines that may be applicable to your specific case. Inward-swinging doors can provide privacy but may pose challenges in emergencies if they cannot be opened from the outside.
4. Evaluate Space Availability: Assess the available space on either side of the door. Doors should ideally swing toward areas with more room to allow easy passage, especially for those using mobility aids like wheelchairs.
5. Consider Weather Conditions: In regions with heavy rain or wind, outward-swinging doors can be advantageous as they prevent water from entering the home.
6. Personal Preferences: Take into account your personal preferences and those of household members. The door's opening direction should be convenient for everyone who uses it.

Choose Panda Windows & Doors For Your Custom Door Designs

With Panda Windows & Doors, you can choose door style, material, size, and finish.

We focus entirely on custom luxury windows and doors. Our award-winning designs and engineering solutions tackle even the most complex projects, using proprietary hardware and craftsmanship to deliver unparalleled, premium-grade products.

We can make almost any door you dream of - sliding, folding, and pivoting - in materials like aluminum, steel, and wood. So, reach out to us to learn more about our products and get a free quote.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the most common door swing direction?

The most common door swing direction is inward, towards the nearest perpendicular wall. This orientation maximizes space within a room and is the default choice for interior doors.

Can the door swing direction affect home resale value?

Absolutely. While it may not be the first thing buyers notice, a well-thought-out door swing direction can contribute to a home’s appeal. A home that feels spacious and well-organized is more attractive to potential buyers. Conversely, awkward or obstructive door swings can detract from a home’s functionality and lower its value. It probably won’t stand out to someone considering a purchase right away, but a closer look could highlight it as a potentially annoying issue.

How do I change an existing door's swing direction?

Changing the swing direction of an existing door can be a bit of a project, but it's definitely doable with the right tools and patience. Here are the steps:

1. Remove the door from its hinges.
2. Fill the old hinge and latch mortises with wood filler.
3. Sand the filled areas smooth once dry.
4. Mark and cut new hinges and latch mortises on the opposite side of the door frame.
5. Reattach the door using the new hinge positions.

Is there a standard for door swing direction in commercial buildings?

Yes, commercial buildings often have regulations that dictate door swing direction, primarily for safety reasons. For example, exterior doors in commercial spaces need to swing outward to facilitate quick evacuation during emergencies. If you’re in the US, look up specific building codes for your state.

What materials are Panda Windows & Doors made from?

We primarily use sustainable and highly recyclable materials such as aluminum, steel, stainless steel, architectural bronze, and wood. Our aluminum extrusions are made with 70-75% recycled content and steel with 26.1%. Learn more about why we stand out.