Resources

Company Questions

• What is Knockety?

  Located in Houston, Texas, Knockety.com is the premiere online store offering premium front doors and hardware at great prices. You can expect a premium level of product excellence for the front doors we offer.

• When were you founded?

  Knockety was founded in 2019.

• What freight carrier does Knockety use?

  Knockety uses FedEx Freight for our products.

Order Questions

• How do I place an order?

  Customers can order products online, over the phone, or over email.

• Does Knockety offer free returns?

  We do not offer free returns at Knockety.

• What do I do if my order was messed up?

  If something went wrong with your order delivery, please call Knockety at 713-400-6616 or email info@knockety.com and include your order number. Check out our Return Policy under the Resources tab for more.

• What payment options does Knockety accept?

  We accept all major credit cards: Visa, AmEx, Mastercard, and Discover. As well as Apple Pay and PayPal for installment payment

• Can I track my order?

  When customers make an account and complete a purchase, they will receive an order confirmation email that also contains a tracking link. For specific status updates please email info@knockety.com.

• Does Knockety take custom orders?

  Yes, Knockety does custom orders. Simply contact us at 713-400-6616 or info@knockety.com to place the order with our team.

Door Questions

• Are all Knockety doors exterior doors?

  Knockety doors are sold as exterior residential doors, but customers may use them for their interiors if they wish.

• What is the lead time for samples and hardware?

  Lead time for our ready-made products, including samples and hardware, is next day.

• What is Knockety’s lead time for doors?

  Our wood doors currently have a lead time of 4 weeks, and our fiberglass doors are 5 weeks. Feel free to contact us for updates on our lead time.

• What is the difference between Knockety’s Quick Ship doors and regular doors?

  Our standard doors are made-to-order and therefore come in many designs and styles, as well as ship according to our lead times. We offer the Quick Ship in one of our more popular doors but with fixed options, allowing for quick purchase and next day shipping.

• How do I install my Knockety door?

  Be sure to first take all necessary measurements. Then once you have removed your old slab door or pre-hung unit, prep the doorway, and install your new Knockety door. Knockety recommends getting a professional installer for the less-experienced handyperson. To learn more, visit our How To Videos page under the Resources tab.

• What is a door jamb?

  A door jamb is the top and 2 side posts of a doorway. For more terminology, please visit the Door Terminology page under the Resources tab.

• Do I need a slab or a pre-hung door unit?

  If a customer wants a new jamb, threshold, etc. in addition to a new door, we recommend they purchase a pre-hung door. If a customer only needs the door itself, then Knockety recommends a slab door.

• Does Knockety sell double doors?

  Yes, we do offer double doors. Simply email info@knockety.com with the door you are interested in.

• What are the pros and cons of wood and fiberglass doors?

  There are many advantages to both wood and fiberglass doors, depending on your needs, the climate, etc. Visit Knockety’s Blog Page under the Resources tab and click the title of the March 8th, 2022 post to learn about the pros and cons of each, as well the Fiberglass Doors and Wood Doors pages.

• Should I get a wood or fiberglass door?

  It is entirely up to the customer, however, some of our doors are available both in wood and fiberglass, though with the respective material’s finish options. It also depends on the type of climate in which you live, among other factors, but with Knockety’s Compare Products feature, you can do a side-by-side comparison of the doors you are considering.

• How much do Knockety’s doors weigh?

  Weight varies depending on slab vs. pre-hung unit orders, however, typically weighs between 100-150 pounds for a single door.

• How should I measure to know what size door I need?

  Grab a tape measure and measure the bottom and top, and sides of your door. Then measure the thickness of the door, as well as the bore hole backset and thickness of the jamb if you’re getting a pre-hung unit.

• What is the glass texture that provides the most privacy?

  Knockety’s highest privacy-rated glass are our Cloud frosted glass and Rain textured glass options, both rated at 9.

• What is brickmould?

  Brickmould is a decorative moulding used to trim the inside edge of a door frame to conceal the seam between the door frame and the wall edges. For more terminology, please visit the Door Terminology page under the Resources tab.

• How does Knockety finish the doors?

  Knockety does a 3-coat system when we finish our doors. First, we prime and stain it, then we go in with topcoat that provides UV protection.

• What is a backset?

  The distance between the holes drilled for hardware and the edge of the door. The standard for residential doors is 2-3/8 inches. For more terminology information, please visit the Door Terminology page under the Resources tab.

• What is Knockety’s warranty for fiberglass doors?

  Finished Fiberglass Doors have a Limited Warranty of 5 years, Unfinished Fiberglass Premium Doors have a Limited Warranty of 5 years, and Unfinished Fiberglass PRO Doors have a Limited Warranty of 5 years. To learn more, visit the Knockety Warranty page under the Resources tab.

• Can I have a storm door with my Knockety door?

  We do not recommend that customers add a storm door to our Knockety doors because they can damage and/or ruin the door. It also voids our warranty.

• Do you only offer standard size doors?

  Knockety offers standard 6-8 doors, as well as 8-foot-tall doors.

General Door Questions

• Why do old houses have two front doors?

  People used to build houses with two front doors for several reasons:

  • Formal Entryway: One front door was typically used as the formal or grand entrance, reserved for guests and special occasions. The other door served as a functional, everyday entrance. This division allowed homeowners to create a clear distinction between the formal and informal use of the house.
  • Weather: If you lived somewhere really hot or cold, two doors could come in handy. You could keep one door closed to keep your house's temperature stable. It's a bit like opening a window slightly to let some air in without letting all your heat out during winter.
  • Cultural Significance: In some cultures, two front doors held symbolic or cultural meaning. For example, in Chinese architecture, a dual-door entryway often represented balance and harmony. In other cultures, it might have had specific religious or superstitious connotations.
  • Two-In-One House: In some city areas, a house might've been built for two families, not one. So, each front door led to a completely different home inside the same building.
  • Design Aesthetics: Architecturally, double front doors enhanced the symmetry and aesthetics of the house's façade, especially in grand or historic homes.
  • Status and Wealth: Having two front doors was sometimes a status symbol, indicating that the homeowner could afford a larger and more intricate house with multiple entrances.

  As architectural styles evolved and modern convenience became a priority, the practice of having two front doors became less common. Today, single front doors are more typical in residential construction. However, in some historic or period homes, you may still find the original double entrance, serving as a reminder of past architectural traditions and cultural practices.

• Why do most front doors open inwards?

  Front doors generally open inwards for several reasons:

  • Safety: Inward opening doors provide better security as they are more difficult for intruders to force open. The hinges are on the inside, making it harder to remove the door from its frame.
  • Space Efficiency: Inward opening doors require less space on the outside, allowing for more efficient use of the area. This can be beneficial for narrow hallways or buildings located close to sidewalks or roads where an outward opening door might obstruct the passage.

  It's worth noting that there are also situations where front doors open outward, such as in some commercial buildings, public spaces, or emergency exits, where specific safety regulations or crowd flow considerations come into play.

• How to decorate double front doors?

  There are many ways to decorate double front doors:

  • Paint and Finish: Pick a door color that goes well with your house. Bold colors stand out, while neutral colors have a classic look. Use weather-resistant paint to protect your doors from rain and sun.
  • Wreaths: Wreaths are a popular decoration you can change for seasons or holidays. Use a green wreath for spring, a beachy one for summer, and a festive one for holidays.
  • Planters: Put big planters with colorful flowers, bushes, or little trees next to your front doors. This adds color and makes your entrance more inviting. Pick planters that fit your house style.
  • Outdoor Lighting: Add lights like sconces or lanterns near your front doors. Good lighting makes your house look better and keeps it safe.
  • Door Hardware: Change your door handles, knockers, and hinges for a new look. Pick finishes and styles that match your overall design. Rugs and Doormats: Put a nice outdoor rug or doormat by your entrance. Choose one that can handle weather and lots of people walking on it.
  • Window Treatments: If your front doors have windows, add blinds, curtains, or decorative film for privacy and style.
  • Seasonal Decor: Change decorations for different seasons and holidays, like pumpkins for fall, wreaths and lights for winter, or flowers for spring and summer.
  • Address Plaque: Put an address sign near your front doors to help people find your house and add style. Outdoor Artwork: Hang outdoor art or sculptures near your front doors for a unique look.
  • Symmetry: When decorating, use matching items on both sides of the door for a balanced look.
  • Personal Touch: Add personal touches like a custom door mat, family name sign, or family crest to make your front doors special.
  • Maintain and Clean: Keep your doors and the area around them clean. A nice entrance makes a better impression.

  Your double front doors are the main part of your home's outside look, so make sure your decorations show your style and fit your house. Try different ideas, and change things up to keep your home looking fresh and welcoming.

• Why do front doors open out in Florida?

  In Florida and other areas where hurricanes are common, front doors usually open outwards for practical reasons:

  • Safety in Storms: Doors that open outwards are less likely to get blown open or damaged by strong winds during a hurricane. Doors that open inwards might get damaged because of the pressure differences caused by severe weather.
  • Easy to Leave the House: If a storm causes a lot of debris or flooding, it can block doors that open inwards, making it hard to leave the house quickly if needed. Doors that open outwards won't get blocked this way, so you can get out easily and safely.
  • Keeps Water Out: Outward-opening doors are designed in a way that makes it harder for water to get in during a heavy rain or flood. They make a better seal against the door frame.
  • Saves Energy: Outward-opening doors can create a tight seal that keeps the hot, humid air of Florida outside and the cool, air-conditioned air inside. This can make the house more energy-efficient. It's important to remember that places like Florida where hurricanes happen often have rules about how to build houses to make them more likely to survive severe weather events.

  Doors that open outwards are just one of these design features that help protect both the buildings and the people living in them during a hurricane. In most other locations that aren’t prone to have hurricanes, inward opening doors are more common.

• Fiberglass or steel entry doors: which is better?

  The choice between fiberglass and steel entry doors depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Here's a comparison to help you make an informed decision:

  Fiberglass Entry Doors:

  Appearance: Fiberglass doors can mimic the look of real wood and come in a variety of styles and finishes. They can be painted or stained to match your home's aesthetics.

  Insulation: Fiberglass doors are energy-efficient and provide better insulation compared to steel doors.

  Durability: Fiberglass doors are resistant to rust, dents, and corrosion. They are less likely to show wear and tear over time. Maintenance: They require relatively low maintenance, such as occasional cleaning and possibly re-painting or restaining over the years.

  Cost: Fiberglass doors are generally more expensive than basic steel doors, but they provide good value for their durability and energy efficiency.

  Steel Entry Doors:

  Security: Steel doors are known for their strength and security. They provide a high level of protection.

  Durability: Steel doors can withstand harsh weather conditions and are less likely to warp or rot.

  Affordability: Steel doors are usually more budget-friendly than fiberglass doors, making them a cost-effective option.

  Maintenance: They are low-maintenance, although regular painting and maintenance are needed to prevent rust and corrosion.

  Appearance: Steel doors have a more industrial look compared to fiberglass or wood but can be painted to match your home's style.

  In summary, if you prioritize aesthetics and insulation, fiberglass entry doors might be a better choice. On the other hand, if security, durability, and cost-effectiveness are your primary concerns, steel entry doors could be the better option. Consider your specific needs and budget, and factor in the climate and weather conditions in your area when making your decision.

• Why do people paint their front doors red?

  Painting a front door red is a tradition that carries various cultural, historical, and symbolic meanings. The choice of a red front door goes beyond personal preference and can hold specific significance depending on the cultural and regional context. Here are some reasons why people opt to paint their front doors red:

  Symbol of Welcome: Red is often associated with hospitality and warmth. A red front door is seen as a way to welcome guests, creating a sense of friendliness and openness.

  Historical Significance: In early American history, a red door served as a symbol of a safe haven along the Underground Railroad, indicating that a house was a secure place for escaped slaves.

  Good Luck: Red is considered a color that brings good luck and wards off evil spirits in some cultures. Painting the front door red is believed to protect the home and its occupants.

  Bold and Striking: Red is a bold and attention-grabbing color. A red front door can make a statement and draw the eye to the entrance, becoming a focal point for the house.

  Cultural Traditions: In Feng Shui, a traditional Chinese practice emphasizing harmony and balance in the home, a red door is believed to bring prosperity and positive energy.

  Historic and Colonial Homes: Many historic and colonial homes feature red front doors as part of their architectural and design traditions. This choice maintains the historical accuracy of the house's exterior.

  Personal Preference: Ultimately, painting a front door red can simply be a matter of individual taste and style. Some people appreciate the way red complements their house's exterior or adds a vibrant touch to the façade.

  While red is a popular choice, there are numerous other colors available, and homeowners may select colors with personal meanings or that match their overall color scheme. When choosing a paint color for a front door, it's essential to consider personal preferences and the specific message or atmosphere one wishes to convey to visitors and passersby.

• Why do some front doors open out?

  Although most residential front doors open inward, some swing outward for practical and architectural reasons. Here are some of the reasons why you might have a front door that opens outward:

  Space Constraints: In homes with limited interior space near the entryway, an outward-swinging door can be more practical since it doesn't take up valuable space when opened. This design ensures that furniture, fixtures, and objects inside the house don't obstruct the door's path.

  Emergency Concerns: Certain building codes and safety regulations require that exterior bedroom or sleeping area doors swing outward, making it easier for occupants to exit the building in case of an emergency.

  Climate Considerations: In areas prone to severe weather conditions, such as hurricanes or high winds, outward-swinging doors can be more weather-resistant and provide better protection during storms.

  Historical or Architectural Style: In certain historical buildings or architectural styles, outward-swinging doors might be part of the original design or period-correct restoration, reflecting the aesthetics and building practices of the time period.

  Accessibility: Modern accessible design standards may recommend outward-swinging doors to accommodate individuals with mobility issues, providing more space for wheelchair users and people with assistive devices to enter and exit.

  While outward-swinging doors can be beneficial in certain situations, they also have some disadvantages, such as security concerns. Ultimately, the choice of door swing direction should consider the unique needs and circumstances of the home or building, local building codes, and safety requirements. So while most residential front doors swing inward, outward-swinging doors are common in settings where they are more practical or necessary.

• How to secure double front doors?

  Securing double front doors is important for both safety and peace of mind. Here are steps you can take to secure double front doors effectively:

  Quality Locks: Invest in high-quality deadbolt locks for both doors, with a one-inch throw. Look for locks rated as Grade 1, the highest residential lock rating. Reinforce door frames and strike plates to prevent kick-ins.

  Security Bars: Install security bars or braces on the inside of both doors to reinforce resistance against forced entry.

  Keyless Entry Systems: Consider installing a keyless entry system with keypad access. This allows you to set unique entry codes for family members or trusted individuals, and change them as needed.

  Reinforce Hinges: Use hinge pins that cannot be easily removed, like non-removable hinge pins or security studs, to prevent unauthorized access.

  Security Cameras: Install security cameras near the entryway as a visible deterrent and a way to record any suspicious activity.

  Peepholes: Install peepholes on both doors to see who is at the door before opening it.

  Secure Glass Panels: Reinforce glass panels with security film or laminated glass to make it more difficult for intruders to break in.

  Alarm System: Consider a monitored home security system with sensors on both doors for immediate alerts and deterrence.

  Lighting: Install motion-activated lighting around the entryway to discourage potential intruders.

  Security Consultation: Consult a security professional or locksmith for personalized recommendations based on your needs.

  Communication System: If your home has an intercom or communication system, use it to verify the identity of visitors before opening the doors.

  Secure Patio or Sliding Doors: Ensure sliding or patio doors near the double front doors are also secured with quality locks and reinforced glass.

  Home Automation: Consider home automation features to control and monitor security systems remotely using a smartphone app.

  Remember that security is multi-layered. Combining multiple security measures greatly enhances the safety of your double front doors and your home overall.

• What is the most secure lock for a front door?

  When it comes to securing your front door, a deadbolt lock is often the go-to choice for maximum security. Specifically, a Grade 1 deadbolt lock is recommended for its strength and resistance against forced entry. To help you make an informed decision, here are some key features and considerations that contribute to a deadbolt lock's security:

  Grade 1 Rating: Deadbolts are commonly rated based on their security level, with Grade 1 being the highest rating. These locks undergo rigorous testing for durability and resistance to attacks, making them the optimal choice for bolstering front door security.

  One-Inch Throw: The throw refers to the part of the deadbolt that extends into the door frame. Opting for a deadbolt with a one-inch throw provides enhanced security as it penetrates deep into the door frame, making it significantly harder to kick or force the door open.

  Reinforced Strike Plate: The strike plate is the metal plate on the door frame into which the deadbolt extends when locked. Look for a deadbolt with a reinforced strike plate and longer screws (around 3 inches) to fortify the door against forced entry attempts.

  Key Control: Consider choosing a deadbolt lock that incorporates key control features, allowing authorized individuals to duplicate keys. This feature ensures better control over the number of key copies and helps to prevent unauthorized duplications.

  Double Cylinder Deadbolt: If your front door has nearby windows or glass, a double cylinder deadbolt is worth considering. This type of deadbolt requires a key to unlock from both the inside and outside, providing an extra layer of security by preventing access through broken glass.

  Smart Locks: Modern smart deadbolts offer advanced security and convenience features such as remote locking and unlocking, temporary access codes, and smartphone control. Ensure that the smart lock you choose is from a reputable manufacturer with robust security measures to safeguard against digital threats.

  High-Quality Materials: Opt for deadbolts made from durable, high-quality materials like solid steel or brass. These materials offer superior resistance to tampering and ensure the lock's longevity.

  Regular Maintenance: Even the most secure lock requires proper maintenance to provide optimal security. Regularly inspect your deadbolt lock to ensure it is in good working condition and promptly replace it if any damage or wear is detected.

  Remember, a robust deadbolt lock is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to achieving comprehensive home security. Factors such as the door's strength, the quality of the door frame, the presence of reinforced glass, and additional security measures for windows all contribute to an effective security system. To maximize security, consider implementing multiple layers of protection, including motion-activated lighting, security cameras, and an alarm system, in conjunction with a high-quality deadbolt lock.

• What are most front doors made of?

  Front doors are available in various materials, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. When selecting the material for your front door, factors like aesthetics, budget, security, and climate should be considered. Here are the most commonly used materials for front doors:

  Wood: Wooden front doors offer a classic and traditional look. They come in different wood species and can be stained or painted to match your home's style. Wood doors provide excellent insulation but require regular maintenance to prevent damage from warping, cracking, or rot.

  Fiberglass: Fiberglass doors mimic the look of wood but are more durable and low-maintenance. They are energy-efficient, resistant to rot, rust, and termites, and can withstand various weather conditions without warping.

  Steel: Steel doors are highly secure and deter forced entry. They require minimal maintenance but can be susceptible to dents, scratches, and rust if not properly maintained. Steel doors are a popular choice for homeowners prioritizing security.

  Aluminum: Aluminum doors are lightweight and resistant to corrosion. They are commonly used in contemporary and modern designs due to their sleek appearance. While aluminum doors are durable and low-maintenance, they may not provide the same level of security or insulation as steel or wood.

  Composite: Composite doors combine materials like wood and fiberglass to offer the aesthetics of wood with the durability and low maintenance of fiberglass. They are energy-efficient and effectively resist weather and pests.

  Glass: Some front doors feature glass panels or are made entirely of glass to provide natural light and a modern look. However, solid doors offer better insulation and security. Reinforced glass and proper sealing can enhance security and energy efficiency.

  The choice of material depends on your priorities, such as aesthetics, security, energy efficiency, and maintenance requirements. Consider the climate in your area and the style of your home when selecting the most suitable material for your front door. Remember, you can enhance the security and insulation of your front door by adding appropriate locks, weatherstripping, and additional security features.