A lot of homeowners are asking the same question: how are you supposed to pick the right internal door (or doors) for your home? There are more than enough options out there, which makes matters even more complicated. Ultimately, though, choosing the perfect internal door will be a matter of figuring out what fits your needs and style. We’ll be talking all about how to choose the perfect internal door in this article, so stick around!
Photo by Jan Tang
It’s easy to get caught up in the details when it comes to different styles and door materials. Before you decide on a particular style or material, though, you should think about what your specific needs are regarding your internal doors. Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you need privacy, noise reduction, or insulation?
- How often will the door(s) be used?
- Do you need fire resistance or soundproofing?
Take your time thinking about the answers to these questions, and you’ll be able to narrow down your choices.
Choose the Right Material
Now, let’s take a look at some different materials for internal doors. Try not to get overwhelmed by the amount of choices — the right material will stand out to you:
Solid Wood Doors
Solid wood doors are durable and timeless. They provide great insulation and soundproofing, too. They’re usually made from pine, mahogany, or oak.
Pine Internal Doors
Pine internal doors are naturally beautiful and very affordable, which is definitely a plus. They can be painted or stained, and are generally easier to work with.
Engineered Wood Doors
Engineered wood doors have a core of solid wood or composite with a real wood veneer. They look and feel like solid wood, but they’re cheaper (and less likely to warp).
Glass Doors
Glass doors are obviously perfect for letting light flow between different rooms in your home. They can be fully (or partially glazed), and you can even get textured glass if privacy is a concern.
Consider Different Door Styles
The style of your door is also important. You’ll probably want to choose a style that matches the interior of your home. Here are some different door styles to consider:
Panel Doors
Panel doors are a classic — you can get two-panel, four-panel, or six-panel configurations, but there are even more options than that.
Flush Doors
Flush doors are smooth and don’t have any panels. They’re great for modern homes since they’re quite sleek.
French Doors
French doors are a great choice because they have multiple glass panels that allow light to pass through. They’re perfect for making your home feel more open while still separating spaces.
Barn Doors
Barn doors slide along a track instead of swinging open. They’re super stylish and are especially ideal for tight spaces.
Pay Attention to Finishes
The finish on your door will affect how your door looks (as well as how long it lasts). Here are some different finishes to consider:
Painted Finish
- Smooth and can match any colour scheme
- Great for MDF or pine doors
Stained Finish
- Improves the wood grain, and will give your home a rich, warm look
- Best for solid wood or engineered wood doors
Varnished Finish
- Protects the wood’s natural beauty
- Super durable and moisture-resistant
Laminate Finish
- Very durable, and is available in a lot of different colours and patterns
- Perfect for busy homes (i.e. homes with kids or pets)
Choose the Right Hardware
Hardware, of course, adds a finishing touch to your door(s).
Handles and Knobs
You can match the handles and knobs to your door style. There are plenty of different options, including classic brass and stainless steel.
Hinges
Hinges should be sturdy and match the finish on your door. You might want to consider using self-closing hinges, since they’re more convenient.
Locks
Locks are necessary for privacy. Make sure they’re easy to use and match the style of your door.
Conclusion
If you’re struggling to pick out the perfect internal door for your home, just know you’re not alone. All it takes is a little planning and thought, though — by thinking about your specific needs, you’ll be able to find a door (or doors) that fits perfectly in your home.
