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3/4 light entry doors - true divided light or simulated divided light?

4 years ago

We're buying Simpson 3/4 light double front entry doors in wood (set of two doors, each 30", for total entry opening of 60") and need to decide between TDL (true divided light) and SDL (simulated divided light). We'll be painting the doors. We understand the differences between TDL and SDL construction. We're considering the possible energy/insulating benefit of SDL, particularly since we're buying 3/4 light doors. Limiting places for air to seep through could be good. We're also considering our possible aesthetic preference -- I love the faceted appearance theoretically achievable with TDL as opposed to the flatter, uniform reflection that can result from a single sheet of glass with grilles imposed on it (SDL). We just replaced our windows with Anderson 400 TDL, but we're undecided about TDL for the front doors. I've looked into the difference between how the spacer bar between the glass in the SDL option will look versus how the TDL doors look. Anyone have first hand experience with how 3/4 light SDL entry doors look versus TDL? Would we regret choosing SDL because of the possible aesthetic concession, or will we not even notice?

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