Exterior Steel Frame Glass Door Construction
Glass Divided Lites
The lites on a door refer to the piece of glass that is framed and separated by lines that form divisions, also called mullions. The divisions of the lites can be true divided or simulated divided.
True Divided Lites(TDL): The glass on the door is multiple pieces instead of one single pane. These pieces are separated by larger mullions going through them.
Simulated Divided Lites (SDL): Simulating divided glass, this is a large, single pane of glass with the mullions laid on top.
True Divided Lites - TDL
True Divided Lites (TDL) feature multiple individual panes of glass separated by structural mullions, creating a timeless and authentic look for steel doors. This construction enhances durability by allowing the mullions to stabilize each glass panel, while also making repairs and replacements easier since each lite is independent. With a mullion width of 1-5/8", TDL is ideal for traditional or high-end custom steel doors where structural integrity and design authenticity matter most.
- Easily replaceable due to the separation of all of the pieces. Offers easy cleaning and replacement.
- Due to mullions stabilizing the glass, this construction is stronger
- Mullion width: 1-5.8"
Simulated Divided Lites - SDL
>Simulated Divided Lites (SDL) offer the appearance of traditional divided glass using a single pane with applied mullions, making them the most budget-friendly option for steel doors. SDL provides the same visual charm as TDL but with thinner mullion widths—down to 3/4"—which is perfect for sleek, modern designs. This option delivers clean lines and visual depth while maintaining energy efficiency and minimizing production cost, making it a popular choice for contemporary steel door projects.
- Most budget friendly
- Provides design similar to true divided
- Allows for mullions as small as 3/4"
Exterior Steel Door Profiles
Flat-to-Flat TDL
Flat-to-Angled-Shape TDL
Flat-to-T-Shape TDL
Flat-to-Flat SDL
Flat-to-Triangle SDL
Flat-to-T-Shape SDL
Threshold
We use Door Hardware with Euro Multipoint
- Steel exterior doors are always equipped with a European Multipoint System
- Utilizing a high-end GU system
- From the center of the keyhole to the lever hole is a standard distance of 3-5
Multipoint Mechanism
Latch: Left hand or right hand reversible
Follower: The receiving end for the spindle of the lever. It recieves with no play and offers reliable locking.
Deadbolt: 2-turn or 1-turn options that both offer a 20 mm throw.
Cylinder Hole: Can accommodate a 22 mm profile or round cylinder.
FerroFinestra W75 TB
with slim lines to offer superior thermal performance. Due to the depth of the profile on our steel and glass doors, we can utilize insulated glazing up to 52 mm that is highly energy efficient on these doors as well. Due to the additions of insulated glazing and thermal protection on our steel and glass exterior models, these doors are a great option for even the harshest of climates
Our front and interior doors are available in most areas in Chicagoland. Our Showroom in close to: Barrington, Chicago, Chicago Gold Coast, Chicago Lakeview, Chicago Lincoln Park, Chicago Logan Square, Chicago Loop, Chicago New Eastside, Chicago North Center, Chicago River North, Chicago Sauganash, Chicago South Loop, Chicago Streeterville, Chicago West Loop, Chicago West Town, Chicago Wicker Park, Clarendon Hills, Deerfield, Elmhurst, Evanston, Glen Ellyn, Glencoe, Glenview, Golf, Highland Park, Hinsdale, Hoffman Estates, Kenilworth, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Lake Zurich, Lemont, Libertyville, Lincolnshire, Medinah, Naperville, Northbrook, Oak Brook, Oak Park, Park Ridge, River Forest, Wayne, Western Springs, Wilmette, Winnetka, .
Our front and interior doors are also available in: Idaho Indiana Montana Wisconsin Wyoming
