Imagine this: You’re finally ready to upgrade your home’s entrance, picturing a stylish new door that welcomes guests and keeps your family safe. But then you start looking, and suddenly you’re drowning in a sea of terms like “R-value,” “U-factor,” and “STC ratings.” It can feel overwhelming, right?
Choosing the right rated entry door isn’t just about looks; it’s about comfort, security, and saving money on your energy bills. The wrong choice can lead to drafts, higher heating and cooling costs, and even less protection. That’s why understanding these ratings is so important, even if the jargon makes your head spin.
In this post, we’re going to break down what those door ratings actually mean in plain English. We’ll show you how to pick a door that offers excellent insulation, keeps out noise, and stands up to the elements. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choice and ready to transform your entryway.
Our Top 5 Rated Entry Doors Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated Entry Doors Detailed Reviews
1. HISAFE Keyed Entry Grade 2 Commercial Door Locks Heavy Duty Office Door Lever
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your office or commercial space with the HISAFE Keyed Entry Grade 2 Commercial Door Locks. This heavy-duty lever lock offers robust security and user-friendly features, making it a smart choice for busy environments. Its sleek satin chrome finish adds a professional touch to any door.
What We Like:
- Versatile Locking Options: You can lock it from the inside using a push-and-turn button or a simple push button. The outside lever always needs a key to open unless the inside button is unlocked.
- Always Accessible Inside: The inside lever is always free to use. This means people can easily exit the room in case of an emergency.
- Durable and Secure: This lock is built tough! It’s ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 certified and UL Listed, meaning it’s strong and reliable. It’s also ADA compliant, making it easy for everyone to use.
- Fire Safety: It’s rated for up to 3 hours of fire resistance, adding an extra layer of safety to your building.
- Fits Most Doors: The 2-3/4-inch backset latch works with standard 1-3/4-inch thick doors.
- Works on Any Door: The lock is non-handed, so it fits both left-hand and right-hand doors.
- Easy to Rekey: Each lock comes with a different key. If you need all your locks to open with the same key, you can easily have it rekeyed at a local lock shop using the SC1 keyway.
What Could Be Improved:
- Keyed Different Standard: While rekeying is easy, having them keyed differently out of the box might require an extra step for businesses needing multiple locks with the same key.
This HISAFE door lock provides a great balance of security, convenience, and safety features for commercial settings. It’s a solid investment for any business looking for reliable door hardware.
2. Heavy Duty Commercial Grade 2 Keyed Entry Door Lever
Rating: 9.1/10
Upgrade your building’s security and accessibility with the Heavy Duty Commercial Grade 2 Keyed Entry Door Lever. This stylish and robust lever, finished in a clean satin chrome, is built for tough use in busy places. It’s designed for ease of use, especially for kids, older adults, and anyone with mobility challenges.
What We Like:
- Two flexible locking options: choose between a push-and-turn button lock or a simple push button lock for added security.
- Always free inside lever ensures easy emergency exit, even when locked from the outside.
- Built tough for high-traffic areas like schools, offices, hospitals, and hotels.
- Sleek satin chrome finish looks professional and complements any door.
- Ergonomic lever design is more comfortable to use than a traditional knob.
- Fits most wooden and metal doors with its adjustable 70mm backset.
- Certified for durability (ANSI/BHMA Grade 2) and safety (UL 3-hour fire rating).
- ADA compliant, making it accessible for everyone.
What Could Be Improved:
- The two locking modes, while flexible, might require a moment to understand which one best suits a specific need.
- While the satin chrome is attractive, it might show fingerprints more easily than some other finishes.
This door lever offers a great blend of security, accessibility, and style. It’s a reliable choice for any commercial space needing a durable and user-friendly door handle.
3. SUMBIN Commercial Lever Lock – Heavy-Duty Locking Door Handle
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your doors with the SUMBIN Commercial Lever Lock. This heavy-duty lock is built tough for busy places. It’s a designer door handle with a strong mortise lock. It’s even fire rated for up to 3 hours. This lock offers top-notch security and style for any building.
What We Like:
- It’s super strong, meeting Grade 1 standards and lasting over a million uses.
- The lock is UL and CUL listed, meaning it’s safe and reliable for 3-hour fire doors.
- It’s designed for easy use, meeting ADA standards for accessibility.
- Installation is simple with the included template and hardware; just grab a screwdriver.
- The lock works for many places like schools, offices, hotels, and apartment buildings.
- It’s reversible, so it fits doors opening to the right or left.
- The entry function allows easy access while keeping deadbolt security separate.
- The inside lever always opens for safety, even if the deadbolt is locked.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific color or finish options are not detailed, which might limit design choices.
- While it supports wholesale, information on bulk pricing for very large projects isn’t immediately clear.
This SUMBIN lock is a solid, dependable choice for anyone needing a high-quality, secure, and stylish door handle. It’s a great investment for enhancing both safety and appearance.
4. Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt
Rating: 9.2/10
Tired of juggling keys? The Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt is here to make your life easier. This smart deadbolt replaces your old one and offers keyless entry with just your fingerprint or a code. It’s designed to be tough, even in bad weather, and keeps track of who comes and goes.
What We Like:
- Fingerprint unlock is super fast, under a second.
- You can save up to 50 fingerprints for family and friends.
- Create unique codes for different people and set when they can use them.
- The anti-peep feature means you can add extra numbers to your code to keep it secret.
- Check the Wyze app to see who unlocked the door and when.
- Auto-Lock feature locks the door automatically after a set time, so you don’t forget.
- It’s easy to install and replaces most standard deadbolts in about 20 minutes.
- Works with Wyze Doorbell Pro to let guests in remotely from your phone.
- It’s IPX5 weatherproof and has a 20-minute fire rating for extra safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to measure your door to make sure it fits correctly.
- Bluetooth connection is needed to see the lock/unlock history in the app.
The Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt offers a convenient and secure way to manage your home’s access. It’s a smart upgrade for any door.
5. NEWBANG Grade 2 ADA Commercial Heavy Duty Entry Door Lever UL Listed and 3 Hour Fire Rated
Rating: 8.6/10
Looking for a strong and reliable door lever? The NEWBANG Grade 2 ADA Commercial Heavy Duty Entry Door Lever is a fantastic choice for any home or business. It’s built tough with a satin chrome finish and can handle the demands of commercial use. Plus, it’s UL listed and fire-rated, giving you extra peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Keyed Entry & Thumb Turn Lock: You can easily lock and unlock it from both sides, keeping your space secure.
- Rekeyable & Commercial Grade 2: This lever is built to last and can be rekeyed if you ever need to change your locks.
- UL Listed & 3 Hour Fire Rated: It meets high safety standards, offering protection in case of a fire.
- Fits Most Doors: It works with standard door thicknesses and has a 70mm backset, making installation straightforward.
- Reversible Design: You can use it on both left-handed and right-handed doors without any hassle.
- Easy to Install: Everything you need, including a template, is included. You can install it yourself with just a screwdriver in minutes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The package does not include a screwdriver, so you’ll need to have one handy.
This door lever offers a great combination of security, durability, and ease of use. It’s a solid investment for anyone needing a dependable and safe door hardware solution.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Rated Entry Doors
When you’re looking for a new entry door, you want something that looks great and keeps your home safe and comfortable. This guide will help you pick the perfect rated entry door for your house.
Why a Rated Entry Door Matters
A rated entry door isn’t just about looks. It’s about security, energy efficiency, and durability. These doors are tested to meet certain standards, so you know you’re getting a quality product that will last.
Key Features to Look For
1. Security Features
- Strong Locks: Deadbolts are a must. Look for doors with multi-point locking systems that secure the door at several points.
- Reinforced Frames: The frame is just as important as the door. It should be strong and securely anchored to your house.
- Impact Resistance: Some doors are built to withstand strong winds and impacts, which is great for areas prone to severe weather.
2. Energy Efficiency
- Insulation: A well-insulated door keeps your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This saves you money on energy bills.
- Weatherstripping: Good weatherstripping seals gaps around the door to prevent drafts and leaks.
- Low-E Glass: If your door has glass, look for Low-E coatings. They help reflect heat, keeping your home comfortable.
3. Durability and Low Maintenance
- Scratch and Fade Resistance: You want a door that looks good for years without needing constant upkeep.
- Weather Resistance: The door should hold up well against rain, sun, and temperature changes.
Important Materials
1. Steel Doors
Steel doors are a popular choice because they are very strong and secure. They are also good at resisting dents and damage. Many steel doors have a foam core for insulation.
2. Fiberglass Doors
Fiberglass doors are a great option for a few reasons. They are strong, energy-efficient, and can be made to look like real wood. They don’t rust or rot, so they last a long time and need little care.
3. Wood Doors
Wood doors offer a classic, beautiful look. They are strong and can be very secure. However, wood doors require more maintenance to protect them from weather and pests. Different types of wood, like oak or mahogany, offer varying levels of durability and cost.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Door Better
- Thicker Door Slab: A thicker door usually means more insulation and strength.
- High-Quality Hardware: Strong hinges and a robust lockset are essential for security and smooth operation.
- Good Seals: Tight seals around the door prevent air and water from getting in.
What Can Make a Door Lower Quality
- Thin Materials: Doors made with thin materials might not be as strong or insulating.
- Poorly Fitted Components: Gaps around the frame or glass can lead to drafts and security issues.
- Cheap Hardware: Low-quality locks and hinges can break easily and compromise security.
User Experience and Use Cases
For the Security-Conscious Homeowner
If security is your top priority, choose a steel door with a multi-point locking system and a reinforced frame. These doors offer excellent protection against forced entry.
For the Energy-Savvy Homeowner
Fiberglass doors with good insulation and Low-E glass are perfect for saving on energy bills. They keep your home comfortable year-round.
For the Aesthetic-Focused Homeowner
Wood doors offer unmatched beauty and can be painted or stained to match your home’s style. If you want the look of wood without the high maintenance, consider a fiberglass door with a wood grain texture.
Choosing a rated entry door is an investment in your home’s safety, comfort, and beauty. By understanding these key features, materials, and quality factors, you can make an informed decision that you’ll be happy with for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Rated Entry Doors
Q: What does “rated” mean for an entry door?
A: “Rated” means the door has been tested and meets specific standards for security, energy efficiency, or durability. These ratings tell you how well the door performs in certain areas.
Q: Are steel doors better than fiberglass doors?
A: Both steel and fiberglass doors are good choices, but they have different strengths. Steel is usually stronger and more dent-resistant. Fiberglass is more resistant to corrosion and can mimic the look of wood very well, often with better insulation.
Q: How important is the door frame?
A: The door frame is very important! A strong door needs a strong frame to keep it secure and prevent damage. Look for frames that are made of solid wood or metal and are properly anchored.
Q: Can I get a rated entry door with glass?
A: Yes, you can. Many rated entry doors come with glass options. For energy efficiency, look for double or triple-pane glass with Low-E coatings.
Q: How do I know if a door is secure?
A: Look for features like a strong deadbolt, multiple locking points, and a reinforced frame. Doors that are impact-resistant also offer a higher level of security.
Q: What is Low-E glass?
A: Low-E glass has a special coating that reflects heat. This helps keep heat inside your home during the winter and outside during the summer, saving you energy.
Q: Do wood doors need a lot of maintenance?
A: Yes, wood doors generally need more maintenance than steel or fiberglass. They should be sealed or painted regularly to protect them from moisture, insects, and sun damage.
Q: What is weatherstripping?
A: Weatherstripping is a material that seals the gaps around your door. It prevents drafts, keeps out water, and improves your home’s energy efficiency.
Q: How can I improve the quality of my existing entry door?
A: You can improve an existing door by upgrading the lock to a strong deadbolt, adding new weatherstripping, and ensuring the hinges are in good condition. A storm door can also add security and energy efficiency.
Q: Where can I find information on door ratings?
A: Door manufacturers usually provide information about their door’s ratings on their product labels or websites. Look for certifications from organizations like ENERGY STAR or the Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA).
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.