While hinged doors come in many types, most have the same basic framework that consists of two stiles that run vertically and two or more rails that run horizontally.

The hinges are on one stile--the hinge stile; the latch and lock are on the other--the lock stile. Panel doors have several panels mounted between the rails and styles; flush doors have an insulation core or filler material between the rails and styles and a veneer that overlays the entire assembly.

Most hinged doors are attached by two or three hinges to their frames. The frame consists of jambs, casing, stops, sill, and threshold. The jambs form the sides and head of the frame; the casing acts as trim and as support for the jambs. The stops are wood strips against which the door fits when closed. With exterior doors, a sill fits between the jambs, forming the frame bottom. The threshold, or saddle, and sometimes weather-stripping, are fastened to the sill.

For security, an exterior door's latch plate should be mounted with screws that are at least 3 inches long so the jamb can't be shattered for easy entry.