When you’re planning a home upgrade—whether it’s a full reno or just replacing that squeaky front door—knowing the different types of doors makes a world of difference. From interior styles that define your layout to exterior doors that protect against weather and burglars, this guide explains it all in plain terms.

We’ll cover what are the different types of interior doors, what are the different types of exterior doors, and help you answer things like what is the best type of front door or what type of exterior door is most energy efficient.

Types of Doors: Interior vs. Exterior

If you’re wondering how many types of doors are there, we’ve got a clean breakdown for homeowners. While there are dozens of variations, most fall into two core categories: interior and exterior.

What Are the Different Types of Interior Doors?

Interior doors aren’t just functional—they add style, privacy, and separation throughout the home.

1. Panel Doors

These are your classic go-to. They have rectangular panels (usually 2, 4, or 6) and are found in most homes across Canada. Great for bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways.

2. Flush Doors

Flat, plain-faced doors with no detailing. Affordable and great for minimalist or modern interiors.

3. French Doors

Double doors with glass panels that add elegance and allow light to flow between rooms. Perfect for home offices or living rooms.

4. Bifold Doors

Ideal for closets or laundry areas, these fold neatly and save space.

5. Pocket Doors

They slide into the wall rather than swinging open. Great for tight spaces where door clearance is an issue.

6. Barn Doors

Stylish and functional, they roll along a top-mounted track and are becoming a favourite in contemporary designs.

👉 These are the most popular picks if you’re asking, what are the different types of interior doors?

Infographic comparing types of doors: interior doors include panel, flush, French, bifold, pocket, and barn doors; exterior doors include steel, fiberglass, glass patio, and wood doors.

What Are the Different Types of Exterior Doors?

Now let’s talk about doors that face the outdoors—your front, side, back, and patio doors. These doors need to be tougher, better insulated, and secure.

1. Steel Doors

Strong, low-maintenance, and built to handle Canadian weather. Steel doors are a top pick for front entries thanks to their durability and affordability.

  • Energy-efficient foam core

  • High security with multi-point locking

  • Dent-resistant coating available

2. Fiberglass Doors

Looking for wood grain without the wood pain? Fiberglass doors offer a natural look with better weather resistance.

  • Insulated core for high thermal performance

  • Won’t crack, warp, or rust

  • Available in many custom finishes and styles

3. Glass Patio Doors

These come in sliding or French-style options and are perfect for backyard access.

  • Large glass panes let in natural light

  • Energy-efficient options with Low-E glass

  • Ideal for entertaining spaces and walkouts

4. Wood Doors

Classic, warm, and luxurious. Great for heritage or high-end homes—but wood requires care and doesn’t perform as well in extreme weather.

👉 Asking what are the different types of exterior doors? These four give you durability, style, and performance in every season.

Side-by-side display of four door types including a wooden panel interior door, a navy blue exterior steel door, a white interior door, and a glass sliding patio door with a view of a green backyard.

What Type of Exterior Door Is Best?

Let’s get practical. If you’re a GTA homeowner shopping for a new door, you’re probably asking:

What type of door is best for front door security?

Go with steel. It’s strong, reliable, and hard to break into. Most have reinforced frames and multi-lock points.

What type of exterior door is most energy efficient?

Fiberglass doors with insulated cores and weather stripping are excellent at keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer.

What type of door is best for exterior performance overall?

Again, fiberglass doors are a strong contender—they check every box: energy savings, style, durability, and less upkeep.

Explore your options here:
👉 Exterior Doors Vaughan– Polaris Windows & Doors

What Is the Best Type of Front Door?

Let’s break it down based on what homeowners really care about:

Need Best Door Type
Energy Efficiency Fiberglass with foam core
High Security Steel with reinforced locks
Low Maintenance Fiberglass
Heritage Style Wood
Bright Entry (Natural Light) Glass-paneled steel or fiberglass

So, what is the best type of front door?
➡️ For most Canadian homes, fiberglass front doors offer the best all-around performance: they’re beautiful, insulated, weather-tough, and customizable.

See more options at:
👉 How Much Does a Steel Front Door Cost?

Choosing the Right Material

Still unsure? Here’s a quick side-by-side:

Material Pros Watch Out For
Steel Strong, secure, budget-friendly Prone to dents if struck hard
Fiberglass Insulated, weatherproof, low upkeep Slightly higher upfront cost
Wood Elegant, classic look Needs regular sealing/maintenance
Glass Modern, light-filled Less privacy and requires cleaning

Final Thoughts

If you’re updating your home, your doors say more than you think. They impact your energy bills, security, first impressions, and even your home’s resale value.

Whether you’re replacing old interior doors or investing in an energy-saving front entry system, knowing your door types—and what they’re built for—makes the decision easier.

For full-service door installation in Vaughan, check out Polaris Windows and Doors. We offer:

  • Energy-efficient steel and fiberglass doors

  • Custom styles and sizes

  • Professional installation and consultation

  • Service areas across Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, and more

📍 Check our reviews here
📞 Visit: polariswindows.ca

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