Pivot Door vs Swing Door: Which Is Better?

September 2, 2024

Key Takeaways

Pivot doors rotate on a pivot box instead of traditional side hinges.
Swing doors are attached to its frame by hinges on the side.
Pivot doors are bold statement pieces that are typically designed for large openings.
Swing doors are better suited for high-traffic areas and are generally more cost-effective.
At Panda Windows & Doors, we can significantly enhance your home’s aesthetic and functionality with our custom pivot and swing door solutions.

What are Pivot Doors?

A pivot door rotates on a set of pins located at the top and bottom of the door instead of the door’s edge. This sleek design supports heavier and wider doors, fitting well with bold architectural styles.

Advantages of Pivot Doors

Saves more space: They require less swing space than traditional doors, working well with property where space is at a premium.
Architectural appeal: Their unique opening mechanism is a design feature that often produces a dramatic effect.
Supports heavier materials: The pivot mechanism can carry larger and thicker doors without the risk of sagging.

Disadvantages of Pivot Doors

Cost: They can be more expensive than traditional doors due to their specialized hardware and complex installation requirements.
Sealing: It’s harder to get a tight seal, which may negatively impact energy efficiency.
Limited privacy: The large glass panels often used in pivot doors may need additional window treatments for privacy.

Pivot Door S.21 residential custom

An All Aluminum Slim Profile (40mm) – S.21 Pivot Door from our pivot door collection.

Founded in 1991, Panda Windows & Doors specializes in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces through Panda Windows & Doors. Operating from our manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Our extensive product lineup includes over 80 high-end offerings, such as pivot doors, French doors, folding doors, lift & slides, multi-slides, horizontal sliding walls, and operable windows. These systems are available in materials like aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, solid wood, and aluminum-wood clad.

We are renowned for our award-winning designs, engineering solutions, and fast lead times, delivering in just 6-10 weeks to customers throughout the U.S. and Caribbean. Trusted by leading architectural firms and glaziers nationwide, we stand as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.

Explore Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today

What are Swing Doors?

A swing door is a type of door that operates on a double hinge mechanism, allowing it to open both inwards and outwards. This mechanism does not need traditional door stops or jambs.

A classic wooden swing door with traditional side hinges.

Advantages of Swing Doors

Versatility: They fit well in all types of settings and homes with different architectural styles.
Accessibility: They are very accessible, making it easy for people with disabilities to pass through.
Automatic Closing: Their double hinge mechanism automatically returns the door to its center position.

Disadvantages of Swing Doors

Small spaces: Their swing arc in smaller spaces can take up too much room.
Maintenance: Their hinges will creak or sag with heavy use if not maintained over time.
Size limitations: They are often limited in size due to the weight that the side hinges can bear.

Pivot Doors vs Swing Doors

Aesthetics

Pivot doors have a clean, modern design with sleek lines and minimal visible hardware – and they make for grand entrances with their impressive sizes.

Swing doors have a more classic and traditional look that allows them to blend well with a wide variety of architectural styles. They also come in many different materials and designs.

Function

Swing doors are simple, reliable, and highly functional. They’re easy to install and operate — which is why they are widely considered to be the standard door type.

Pivot doors are less traditional, opening with a smooth rotation on a central point. They allow for larger openings — which is perfect for moving large furniture or hosting big events.

Cost

Swing doors are generally more affordable because their materials and hardware are commonly used.

Pivot doors, with their specialized hardware, larger sizes and custom designs, make for a larger investment. They also have long-term value in terms of their durability and aesthetic appeal.

Ideal Uses for Each Door Type

Best Situations for Pivot Doors

Large entryways for grand entrances.
Modern homes or art galleries where the door acts as an art piece.
Spaces where you want to maximize natural light and views with larger glass panels.

Best Situations for Swing Doors

High-traffic areas where durability and ease of use are paramount.
Traditional home styles where the classic look of a swing door complements the design.

A pivot door with set point versus a swing door with side hinges (image courtesy of Urban Front).

Making the Right Choice with Panda Windows & Doors

At Panda Windows & Doors, we offer many customization options to suit your pivot or swing door needs. Consider your space, your budget, and your style. The right door can transform an ordinary entryway into an extraordinary one.

COMPARISON

PIVOT DOORS

SWING DOORS

Aesthetics

– Sleek, modern, and minimalist design

– Makes a bold architectural statement

– Often used as a statement piece in contemporary settings

– Traditional and classic charm

– Available in a wide variety of styles, materials, and designs

– Blends well with both contemporary and traditional architectural styles

Function

– Rotates around a central axis, creating two parallel spaces when open

– Requires less clearance space to open

– Can support larger and heavier door panels

– More stable due to weight distribution through pivots and floor

– Less prone to sagging over time

– Operates on hinges, swinging open from one side

– Easier to install and operate

– Requires more clearance space to open fully

– More susceptible to sagging over time due to gravity

– Generally provides better sealing and insulation for exterior applications

Cost

– Typically more expensive due to specialized hardware and installation

– Higher initial cost may be offset by durability and unique design

– Generally more affordable and widely available

– Lower initial cost, but may require more maintenance over time

When to Use

– Grand entrances

– Modern and contemporary designs

– Large openings

– Room dividers in open-plan spaces

– Hidden doors that blend seamlessly with walls

– Traditional and classic interiors

– High-traffic areas

– Tight spaces

– Cost-effective solutions

– Better sealing and insulation for exterior applications

Comparison table between pivot doors and swing doors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the main difference between a pivot door and a swing door?

Their main difference is in how each door operates.

A pivot door rotates on a set point located at the top and bottom, allowing it to support wider and heavier doors. A swing door is attached to its frame by side hinges and swings open from one edge — which is better for smaller, lighter doors.

Can pivot doors be used as exterior entries?

Pivot doors make stunning exterior entries. However, it’s important to make sure they are properly sealed and constructed with weather-resistant materials.

At Panda Windows & Doors, we offer a range of pivot doors designed to withstand the elements and keep your home secure.

Are swing doors more energy-efficient than pivot doors?

Swing doors can be more energy-efficient due to their tighter seal. Pivot doors need extra attention for sealing so they don’t let in drafts.

That being said, with the right design and installation, pivot doors can also be incredibly energy-efficient.

What should I consider when selecting a door for a small room?

Swing doors can take up valuable floor space due to their swing path, so in smaller rooms, you might want to consider a pivot door that requires less clearance.

How does the installation process differ for pivot doors compared to swing doors?

The installation of pivot doors is a bit more complicated than that of swing doors.

Pivot doors require a pivot box and a set of pins (or a pivot hinge), which need to be precisely installed at the top and bottom of the door. This often requires the expertise of a professional installer.

Swing doors, on the other hand, are easy and quick to install, with hinges attached to the side of the door frame.