Craftsman Style Entry Doors: B2B Sourcing & Factory Guide

19 min read

When a distributor in Denver emails a factory in Foshan asking for a “7 lite knotty alder craftsman door with sidelites,” the first thing they usually want to know is whether the factory understands what that actually means—not just the dimensions, but the proportions of the stiles, the depth of the panel reveal, and whether the low-E coating meets local energy codes.

Craftsman style entry doors are not a single product. They are a family of configurations defined by horizontal lines, thick frames, and geometric glass lites—typically arranged in vertical patterns of three, five, or seven panes. The style draws from the Arts and Crafts movement and remains a top seller in North American residential construction because it suits both traditional bungalows and modern farmhouse aesthetics.

This guide is written for B2B buyers—contractors, distributors, architects, and developers—who need to source these doors with confidence. We cover material options, glass configurations, building code compliance, and the practical realities of factory-direct procurement.

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Understanding Craftsman Style Entry Doors: Types and Applications

A craftsman style entry door emphasizes clean, geometric lines rather than ornate carvings. The typical configuration includes a solid wood or wood-clad frame, a lower panel with a flat or slightly recessed profile, and an upper section of divided glass lites—usually arranged vertically in three, five, or seven panes with flat, square-edged muntins.

The style splits into two broad application categories: residential single-family homes, where the door is a focal point of the facade, and multi-family or light commercial projects, such as townhome developments and boutique hotels, where the craftsman aesthetic creates a “neighborhood” feel.

For B2B buyers, the key distinction is construction. A true craftsman door has thick stiles and rails—typically 5 to 7 inches wide—which provide structural rigidity and allow for substantial glass openings. This differs from a “craftsman-inspired” door with decorative grids glued onto a standard flush slab, which is cheaper but lacks the same durability and acoustic performance.

The application dictates the material. For interior or protected exterior applications, solid wood (knotty alder, oak, mahogany) is common. For exposed, high-traffic, or coastal installations, aluminum alloy frames with thermal breaks are increasingly specified. The choice affects maintenance schedules and wind load ratings.

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Material Options for Craftsman Style Entry Doors

The material specification is the single most important decision in the procurement process, determining price, lead time, maintenance requirements, and performance envelope.

Solid Wood Craftsman Doors

Solid wood remains the default choice for authentic craftsman aesthetics. The most common species in the North American market are:

• Knotty alder – Dominant in the Pacific Northwest and Southwest. Warm, rustic look with visible character marks. Softer than oak, easier to machine, but dents more easily.
• White oak – Harder and more durable with a pronounced grain. Commonly specified for high-end coastal projects because it handles humidity better than alder.
• Mahogany – The premium option. Dimensionally stable, rot-resistant, takes a deep rich stain. Also the most expensive.
• Douglas fir – A traditional choice for craftsman bungalows. Strong and lightweight, but requires a high-quality finish for exterior protection.

From a B2B perspective, the wood species directly affects unit price and lead time. Knotty alder is generally most readily available, with standard lead times of 15–25 days. Mahogany or white oak can push lead times to 30–45 days due to material sourcing and tighter machining tolerances.

The performance characteristic that matters most is dimensional stability. Wood is hygroscopic—it absorbs and releases moisture. A door slab not properly kiln-dried to a moisture content of 8–10% will warp, cup, or twist within months. Buyers should always request the moisture content reading from the factory’s quality control report.

Aluminum Alloy & Thermal-Break Entry Doors

For commercial projects and high-performance residential builds, aluminum alloy frames with thermal breaks are the engineering solution. The frame uses two separate aluminum profiles joined by a polyamide strip, which interrupts the thermal bridge and significantly reduces heat transfer.

Technical specs matter here. A quality thermal-break door uses a 24mm or 34mm polyamide strip, with a U-factor of 2.0 W/m²K or lower. This meets ENERGY STAR requirements for most climate zones and complies with California Title 24 energy codes.

Aluminum’s real advantage is durability—it does not rot, corrode, or fade. For coastal projects where salt air destroys wood finishes within a couple of years, a powder-coated aluminum frame with a wood or composite interior is the practical choice. The finish is applied via electrostatic powder coating—typically a two-coat system providing a 60–80 micron film thickness, far more durable than liquid paint.

The trade-off is aesthetic. Aluminum frames can look “commercial” if not properly designed. To maintain the craftsman look, the frame should have a deep profile (at least 80mm) and true divided lites, not simulated ones.

Hybrid & Clad Options

Hybrid systems combine a wood interior with an aluminum or fiberglass exterior, offering the warmth of wood inside and low maintenance outside. The wood interior is typically a veneer over an engineered core (LVL), providing better dimensional stability than solid wood.

For B2B buyers, hybrid systems simplify code compliance. The exterior shell handles weather resistance and wind load requirements, while the interior wood provides the aesthetic. This is a common specification for high-rise residential projects requiring strict air-tightness and water-tightness ratings.

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Glass Lites & Configuration Patterns

The glass configuration is the defining visual feature of a craftsman style entry door—and where many procurement mistakes happen. Specifying the wrong glass type can lead to failed energy inspections or excessive heat gain.

Popular Craftsman Lite Patterns

The most common configurations are:

• 3-lite – Three vertical panes. Most traditional; works well for narrower doors (32″ or 34″).
• 5-lite – Five vertical panes, often with a wider center pane. Most versatile; suitable for 36″ doors.
• 7-lite – Seven vertical panes, sometimes with a larger central pane and three narrower panes on each side. High-demand for modern craftsman styles, often specified with knotty alder frames.

The “prairie style” influence—popularized by Frank Lloyd Wright—uses flat, geometric muntins rather than curved or ornate ones. The lites are divided by square-edged bars, typically 1-1/8″ to 1-1/2″ wide. This is a key detail to verify with the factory. Many low-cost manufacturers use “simulated divided lites” (SDL), where adhesive grids are applied to both sides of a single large pane. This is cheaper but lacks the structural integrity and visual depth of true divided lites (TDL).

For B2B buyers, the SDL vs. TDL choice affects both cost and performance. TDL is more expensive because each pane must be cut, insulated, and assembled individually. However, TDL provides better structural support and allows for individual pane replacement. For projects exposed to high wind loads, TDL is the safer specification.

Glass Types & Energy Performance

The minimum standard for modern entry doors is a double-glazed insulated glass unit (IGU) with a low-E coating and argon gas fill. Key metrics to specify:

• U-factor – Target 0.30 or lower for cold climates (Climate Zones 5–7); 0.40 or lower for warm climates.
• SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) – For hot climates, specify 0.25 or lower to reduce cooling loads.
• VT (Visible Transmittance) – For craftsman doors with multiple lites, a VT of 0.40–0.60 is typical.

The IGU should have a warm-edge spacer system (stainless steel or silicone foam) rather than traditional aluminum spacers, reducing heat loss at the glass edge and preventing condensation. Buyers should also specify glass thickness—typically 3mm or 4mm per pane for residential, and 5mm or 6mm for commercial or high-wind areas.

Side Lites & Transoms

Craftsman entry doors are often paired with side lites—single or double panels flanking the door. These significantly increase natural light but also increase structural load on the frame.

For a single side lite, the rough opening is typically 12″ to 18″ wide. For double side lites, the total assembly width can reach 60″ to 72″. The frame must be reinforced to handle the additional glass weight, especially in wind-prone areas.

Transoms—horizontal windows above the door—are less common in craftsman style but are used in entryways with high ceilings. A transom adds visual height but requires a lintel or header for support. For B2B buyers, this means coordinating with the structural engineer and ensuring the factory can match the transom to the door’s profile.

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Hardware, Hinges & Functional Specifications

The hardware on a craftsman door is a functional component affecting security, durability, and ease of use. For B2B buyers, the specification should cover locking, hinges, and weatherstripping.

Locking Mechanisms & Multi-Point Systems

A standard single-point lock is insufficient for a modern entry door. Multi-point locking systems—engaging at the top, bottom, and center—provide better security and improve air-tightness by pulling the door evenly against the frame.

Specify a multi-point lock with a 20mm or 30mm throw (bolt travel distance), paired with a hardened steel strike plate. For high-security projects, specify anti-drill and anti-pick cylinders certified to EN 1303 or ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 standards.

Smart lock compatibility is a growing requirement. Many multi-point systems offer retrofit kits for popular smart locks (August, Yale, Schlage). Verify with the factory that the lock case dimensions are compatible.

Hinges & Frame Construction

For doors up to 100 lbs, three standard 4″ x 4″ ball-bearing hinges are sufficient. For doors over 100 lbs, or those with multiple glass lites, specify 3D-adjustable hinges, which allow for vertical, horizontal, and compression adjustment after installation.

Frame construction matters equally. A standard 4-9/16″ frame suits interior doors, but exterior entry doors require a 6-9/16″ or 7″ frame depth, providing more room for insulation and a deeper weatherstripping channel.

Weatherstripping & Air-Tightness

The two main types of weatherstripping are:

• EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) – A synthetic rubber highly resistant to UV, ozone, and temperature extremes. Preferred for exterior doors.
• Silicone – More flexible than EPDM but with lower abrasion resistance. Suitable for interior or low-traffic applications.

Air-tightness is measured per EN 12207, classifying doors from Class 1 (least airtight) to Class 4 (most airtight). For craftsman entry doors, specify Class 3 or Class 4, corresponding to an air leakage rate of less than 1.5 m³/h·m² at 10 Pa test pressure.

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Building Codes, Compliance & Testing Standards

For B2B buyers, ensuring the door meets local building codes and performance standards is critical—not just for appearance, but for liability. A door that fails a wind load test or energy inspection can halt a project and result in significant financial losses.

Energy Codes & U-Factor Requirements

The primary energy codes in North America are the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and ASHRAE 90.1. State-specific codes, such as California Title 24, can be more stringent. These codes specify maximum U-factor and SHGC values for fenestration products.

For example, the 2021 IECC requires a maximum U-factor of 0.30 for fenestration in Climate Zone 5 (most of the Midwest and Northeast). For Climate Zone 1 (southern Florida and Hawaii), the maximum SHGC is 0.25.

To verify compliance, the door must be tested by an accredited laboratory. Key certifications include:

• NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) – Provides U-factor, SHGC, and VT ratings.
• AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440 – The North American Fenestration Standard covering performance classes and grades.
• ENERGY STAR – A voluntary program requiring products to meet or exceed IECC requirements.

Request the NFRC label and AAMA certification from the factory before committing to an order.

Wind Load, Water Tightness & Structural Testing

For exterior doors, structural performance is measured by three key tests:

• ASTM E330 – Structural performance under wind load. The door must not deflect more than L/175 and must not experience permanent deformation.
• ASTM E547 – Water penetration resistance. The door must not allow water to penetrate the interior under sprayed water and pressure differentials.
• ASTM E283 – Air leakage. Measures the rate of air infiltration under pressure differentials.

Results are reported as a performance grade (PG). For example, a PG 50 rating withstands a test pressure of 50 psf. For coastal areas with high wind loads, specify PG 50 or higher. For inland areas, PG 30 is typically sufficient.

Accessibility & Egress Requirements

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and local building codes specify requirements for door openings. Key specifications include:

• Clear opening width – At least 32 inches (815 mm) when the door is open at 90 degrees.
• Threshold height – No higher than 1/2 inch (13 mm) for exterior doors, with a beveled edge.
• Egress requirements – The door must be operable without special knowledge or effort, with an opening large enough for emergency exit.

Verify that the factory can provide an adjustable threshold, allowing you to set the height on site to meet local code requirements.

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How to Evaluate Craftsman Style Entry Doors Suppliers

Evaluating a factory in another country differs fundamentally from evaluating a local distributor. You cannot walk the floor or inspect the product in person. You must rely on documentation, samples, and the factory’s willingness to answer technical questions.

Step 1: Verify the Factory’s Credentials

Start with hard evidence. A legitimate manufacturer should provide:

• A valid business license and export license.
• ISO 9001:2015 certification for quality management.
• Product test reports from accredited laboratories (e.g., NFRC, AAMA, CE).

Do not accept a single document as proof. Cross-check the factory’s name against the test report. Many low-cost suppliers provide test reports for products that bear no resemblance to what they actually produce.

Step 2: Request a Pre-Production Sample

A sample is non-negotiable. It should be an exact replica of the product you intend to order—same materials, glass, and hardware. Inspect:

• Dimensional tolerance – Within ±1mm of specified dimensions.
• Finish consistency – Uniform stain or paint, with no runs, sags, or orange peel.
• Glass seal integrity – IGU free of condensation or seal failures.
• Hardware function – All locks, hinges, and handles operate smoothly.

Step 3: Audit the Production Process

Ask for a detailed production schedule and a list of key machinery. A factory using CNC machining centers for frame cutting and assembly is more likely to produce consistent quality than one relying on manual labor.

Step 4: Ask for Customer References

A factory with international clients should provide references. Contact them and ask about lead times, quality, and after-sales support.

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Key Quality Indicators for Craftsman Style Entry Doors Buyers

The quality of a craftsman entry door is determined by several measurable factors. Here is a checklist to verify before placing an order.

Dimensional Accuracy

The door frame and slab must be square and flat. Check diagonal measurements—they should not differ by more than 1.5mm. The door should have consistent thickness across the entire slab.

Surface Finish Quality

For wood doors, the finish is the most visible quality indicator. A high-quality finish should have uniform sheen, with no visible brush marks or uneven color. It should also be water-resistant, with a minimum of two topcoats.

Glass Seal Integrity

The IGU seal should be free of bubbles, voids, or delamination. The desiccant inside the spacer should be visible and evenly distributed. A poor seal will allow moisture ingress, causing fogging over time.

Hardware Durability

Test hardware for smooth operation. The lock should engage and disengage without sticking. Hinges should support the door without sagging. Hardware should be corrosion-resistant, especially for coastal applications.

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Relevant Industry Standards and Certifications

For B2B buyers, the following standards are most relevant for craftsman entry doors:

Standard	Description	Why It Matters
ISO 9001:2015	Quality management systems	Ensures consistent production processes and traceability
NFRC 100	U-factor and SHGC ratings	Required for ENERGY STAR compliance and energy codes
AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440	North American Fenestration Standard	Defines performance classes for air, water, and structural loads
EN 12207	Air permeability classification	Classifies doors from Class 1 (least airtight) to Class 4 (most airtight)
EN 14351-1	CE marking for windows and doors	Required for sale in the European Union
ASTM E330	Structural performance under wind load	Verifies the door can withstand design wind pressures
ASTM E547	Water penetration resistance	Verifies the door does not leak under rain and wind

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Our doors Manufacturing Capabilities

At this point, the discussion shifts from general procurement knowledge to how Jusen Door and Windows Manufacturing Co., Ltd. meets these standards in practice. We are a direct factory supplier of solid wood, thermal-break aluminum, and hybrid entry doors, focused on international B2B clients.

Direct Factory Supply & Cost Transparency

The most significant advantage of working with a factory directly is cost transparency. Buying through a middleman adds a markup of typically 15–30% on top of the factory price, which does not add product value. Sourcing directly from us eliminates that layer entirely.

We support both FCL (full container load) and LCL (less than container load) shipments. For LCL, we consolidate multiple orders into a single container, reducing your freight cost per unit. We also provide full export documentation—packing lists, proforma invoices, and customs paperwork—so there are no surprises at the port.

OEM / ODM / Customization Capabilities

Off-the-shelf products rarely fit every project. Our factory handles full customization on:

• Size – Custom widths, heights, and thicknesses.
• Color – Any RAL or NCS color for aluminum frames; any stain or paint color for wood doors.
• Glass configuration – 3-lite, 5-lite, 7-lite, or custom patterns, with options for beveled, frosted, or obscured glass.
• Hardware – Multi-point locks, smart lock compatibility, and custom handles.

For OEM and ODM orders, we can produce doors under your private label. We can adjust profile structure and fittings to match the local building codes of your target market, which is particularly important for regions with specific wind load or energy efficiency requirements.

Quality Control & Compliance Support

We maintain a strict multi-stage inspection process. Every door is checked at:

• Raw material inspection – Verifying wood moisture content and aluminum profile thickness.
• In-process inspection – Checking machining tolerances and join quality.
• Pre-shipment inspection – Performing air-tightness, water-tightness, and wind resistance tests on a sample.

We provide test documentation for every order, including air-tightness tests per EN 12207 and structural tests per ASTM E330, supporting your local code compliance and warranty requirements.

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Production Process: From Raw Material to Finished doors

Understanding how a door is manufactured helps buyers ask the right questions. Here is the production process for a typical craftsman entry door.

Step 1: Material Preparation

For wood doors, raw lumber is kiln-dried to a moisture content of 8–10%, then cut to required dimensions and planed for consistent thickness. For aluminum doors, profiles are extruded from 6063-T5 aluminum alloy, cut to length, and fitted with thermal-break polyamide strips.

Step 2: CNC Machining

Frame components are machined using CNC (computer numerical control) machining centers, ensuring precise cuts for joints, mortises, and hinge recesses. For wood doors, panels are machined with the desired profile—flat, recessed, or raised.

Step 3: Assembly

Frame components are joined using dowel-and-glue construction (for wood) or corner brackets and screws (for aluminum). Glass lites are installed with structural silicone and pressure plates. Weatherstripping is applied to the frame.

Step 4: Surface Treatment

For wood doors, the surface is sanded, stained, and sealed in a climate-controlled booth for even coverage. For aluminum doors, the surface is cleaned, etched, and powder-coated.

Step 5: Hardware Installation

Locks, hinges, handles, and other hardware are installed. The door is adjusted to ensure smooth operation.

Step 6: Final Inspection

The door is inspected for dimensional accuracy, finish quality, and hardware function. Final tests verify air-tightness and water-tightness.

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Quality Control: Our Multi-Stage Inspection Process

A quality control process is only as good as its documentation. Here is what we track for every order.

Dimensional Tolerance

We use calibrated measuring tools to verify each door is within ±1mm of specified dimensions. Diagonal measurements are checked to ensure the door is square.

Glass Seal Integrity

Each IGU is inspected for seal integrity using a thermal imaging camera to detect delamination or moisture ingress.

Hardware Function

Every lock, hinge, and handle is tested for smooth operation. The multi-point lock is engaged and disengaged 10 times to verify reliability.

Performance Testing

A sample of each production batch is subjected to air-tightness, water-tightness, and wind resistance tests. Results are documented and provided to the buyer.

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Customization and OEM/ODM Options

The ability to customize is a critical factor for B2B buyers. Here are the customization options we offer.

Size Customization

We can produce doors in any size, from compact 30″ x 80″ units to oversized 48″ x 96″ doors. For non-standard sizes, we require exact rough opening dimensions to ensure a proper fit.

Glass Configuration

We offer a range of glass configurations, from simple 3-lite to complex 7-lite or custom geometric patterns. Glass types include clear, frosted, beveled, and textured.

Hardware Selection

We offer hardware finishes including satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and matte black. We also offer multi-point locks from major brands, including Hoppe, Roto, and Siegenia.

Private Label

For distributors, we can produce doors under your brand name, including custom packaging, labeling, and documentation.

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Ordering Process: MOQ, Lead Time, and Shipping

Here is what you can expect when ordering from us.

Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)

MOQ depends on the product and material. For standard aluminum and wood doors, MOQs are flexible for LCL shipments—typically 10 to 20 units. For fully custom projects, we can discuss based on your volume and spec sheet.

Lead Times

Standard sizes typically ship in 15–25 days. Fully custom sizes, glass, and hardware can take 30–45 days, depending on configuration and order volume.

Shipping

We support both FCL and LCL shipments. For FCL, we can arrange direct delivery from our factory to your port. For LCL, we consolidate your order with other cargo to reduce freight cost.

Payment Terms

We accept T/T (telegraphic transfer) and L/C (letter of credit) for large orders. For first-time orders, a 30% deposit is required, with the balance due before shipment.

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Certifications and Industry Standards

We maintain the following certifications and standards:

• ISO 9001:2015 – Quality management system.
• CE marking – For products sold in the European Union, per EN 14351-1.
• NFRC – U-factor and SHGC ratings for ENERGY STAR compliance.
• AAMA/WDMA/CSA – Performance certification for air, water, and structural loads.

We provide test reports for every order, so you have the documentation needed for local code compliance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best front door design for a cottage style house?

Cottage style typically favors paneled wood doors, often painted in soft colors, with small divided lites or a single decorative glass. Craftsman elements—thick stiles, horizontal rails, and geometric lites—blend well with cottage aesthetics. For a small cottage, a single door with a full-lite or half-lite glass panel creates visual openness.

What is a cottage style door?

A cottage style door is typically a simple, solid-core or paneled door, often in wood or wood-look material, featuring a cozy, rustic or country aesthetic—usually with decorative glass or a transom. The focus is on warmth and charm rather than formality.

What are the three colors not to paint your front door?

Common guidance from design and real estate sources suggests avoiding: (1) dull gray, which can appear lifeless; (2) pure white, which can look unfinished or clash with trim; and (3) bright neon or overly saturated colors, which can reduce curb appeal and resale value. Neutral earth tones, deep greens, navy, or classic black are preferred.

What are some ideas for a front door for a small cottage?

For a small cottage, choose a single door with a full-lite or half-lite glass panel to create visual openness. Use vertical lites (craftsman style) to add height perception. Opt for lighter colors or natural wood to keep the facade inviting.

What is the typical lead time for custom craftsman entry doors?

Standard sizes typically ship in 15–25 days. Fully custom sizes, glass, and hardware can take 30–45 days, depending on configuration and order volume.

What MOQ do you require for bulk orders?

MOQ depends on the model and material. For standard aluminum and wood doors, MOQs are flexible for LCL shipments—typically 10 to 20 units. For fully custom projects, we can discuss based on your volume and spec sheet.

Can you provide test reports for air-tightness and wind resistance?

Yes. We perform pre-shipment inspections including air-tightness, water-tightness, and wind resistance tests, and we can provide documentation for your records and local code compliance.

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A Practical Sourcing Framework

The decision between suppliers is not just about price. It is about risk management. Here is a simple framework to guide your choice.

Choose a factory-direct supplier if:

• You are ordering in volume (FCL or regular LCL shipments).
• You need custom configurations not available from stock.
• You require test documentation for code compliance.
• You want to eliminate the middleman markup.

Choose a local distributor if:

• You need a single door urgently and cannot wait for shipping.
• You are not prepared to manage international logistics.
• You require a local warranty and after-sales service.

For most B2B buyers, a hybrid approach works best: use a local distributor for emergency replacements, but source volume orders directly from a factory to maximize margins and customization options.

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References

• International Code Council. (2021). 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). https://www.iccsafe.org/“>https://www.iccsafe.org/
• National Fenestration Rating Council. (2023). NFRC 100: Procedure for Determining Fenestration Product U-factors. https://www.nfrc.org/“>https://www.nfrc.org/
• American Architectural Manufacturers Association. (2017). AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440-17: North American Fenestration Standard. https://www.aamanet.org/“>https://www.aamanet.org/
• ASTM International. (2019). ASTM E330/E330M-14: Standard Test Method for Structural Performance of Exterior Windows, Doors, Skylights and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference. https://www.astm.org/“>https://www.astm.org/
• ASTM International. (2016). ASTM E547-16: Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors, and Curtain Walls by Cyclic Static Air Pressure Difference. https://www.astm.org/“>https://www.astm.org/
• European Committee for Standardization. (2000). EN 12207:1999: Windows and doors – Air permeability – Classification. https://www.cencenelec.eu/“>https://www.cencenelec.eu/
• International Organization for Standardization. (2015). ISO 9001:2015: Quality management systems – Requirements. https://www.iso.org/“>https://www.iso.org/
• U.S. Department of Energy. (2023). ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2023 — Windows, Doors, and Skylights. https://www.energystar.gov/“>https://www.energystar.gov/

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If you are sourcing craftsman style entry doors for a residential development, a commercial project, or a distribution network, the key is to specify your requirements clearly and verify the factory’s capabilities before committing. We can help you with that.

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