Interior Door Buying Guide - Lowe's

Interior doors are available in a variety of types, giving you the option of enhancing every room in your home. While there are many door types, there are, however, two main interior door panel types: slab and pre-hung.

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A slab door is basic; it's usually the door itself and it doesn't include a frame, hinges or the handle set. Typically, slab doors are unfinished (meaning they require painting or staining). However, on occasion you’ll find that some slab doors do come already finished and ready to hang. When you want to update existing slab doors in your home, add new hardware like hinges or handle sets. Create something entirely new with a slab door. Think of it as a blank canvas — you can create any look you want.

A pre-hung door, which includes a frame-mounted door and hinges, is ready to install and use with a prepared doorway.

Handing, or door swing, is important for placement and door hardware. To determine handing, stand on the outside of the door (the side from where you would enter, such as in the hallway facing the bedroom). If the hinges are on the left side of the door, you have a left-handed door. If the hinges are on the right side of the door, it's a right-handed door.

For tips on installing or replacing an interior door, visit Install or Replace Interior Doors.

Barn doors are a fresh way to separate rooms, while providing an artisan flair to any space. Some barn doors glide along an upper rail, and others have a bottom track to prevent the door from swinging. Barn doors range from rustic to polished and come prefinished or unfinished in a variety of styles of doors. Interior barn doors are trendy, functional and provide architectural interest.

We also offer a kit to convert most doors into a barn door.

Looking for inspiration? Watch our video: DIY Barn Door Ideas.

Barn door hardware has a variety of finishes and accessories. Both top- and side-mount hardware are available. Mounting hardware kits are all-in-one for a single door application.

A pocket door is a sliding door that tucks into the wall and hides from view when opened. It's a great door to have when space is at a premium, and there's no room for the swing arc of a door. Depending on the entry width, single or double doors can be used.

You can create a pocket door by selecting a standard slab door along with a pocket door frame kit that fits within the space. A slab door helps you save space while giving you greater design flexibility as you customize the door.

Choosing a wooden front door can enhance the beauty of a home while providing durability and energy efficiency.

Many people appreciate wood for its natural charm and the variety of designs it offers, from classic to modern styles.

One significant benefit of wooden doors is their ability to be customized to fit unique aesthetic preferences and functional needs.

Additionally, with proper care and high-quality finishes, wooden doors can withstand weather changes and maintain their appearance for years.

Readers will find insights into the costs, materials, and styles to consider, ensuring the perfect wooden front door for their home.

Wooden front doors are popular for their classic look and sturdy feel. They effortlessly add charm and warmth to any home's entrance.

Here are some key aspects to consider.

Cost and Material

Wooden doors can range in price from $500 to $5,000, depending on factors like wood type and customization.

Common woods include oak, mahogany, walnut, and knotty alder.

Aesthetic Appeal

Wooden doors come in various styles and finishes. Knotty alder, for example, offers a rustic charm with its cherrylike hue.

This wood type is versatile for country-style homes and stains well for different finishes.

Durability and Maintenance

When cared for properly, wooden doors are very durable. They can withstand physical stress and elements like rain and wind.

Regular sealing and upkeep are necessary to avoid warping or rotting from moisture exposure.

Energy Efficiency

Properly insulated wooden doors can be energy efficient. They help maintain indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs.

Adding weather stripping and seals can improve their efficiency.

Security Features

Enhancing security is vital for wooden front doors. Installing multi-point locks and reinforcing hinges and door jambs are effective strategies.

Adding laminated glass and security grills can further protect the home.

Solid Wood Doors

These doors are made entirely of natural wood. They are known for their sturdiness and longevity, making them a popular choice.

Hardwoods like oak, mahogany, and maple are common for these doors, offering different grains and colors. Softwoods like pine are also used, providing a lighter weight.

Panel Doors

Panel doors consist of horizontal rails and vertical stiles with panels in between that can be raised or flat.

This style is versatile and can fit various aesthetics, from traditional to modern. Different woods can be used for diverse textures and hues.

Flush Doors

Flush doors feature a sleek, flat surface created with a single piece of wood or a core covered with thin wood veneers.

Their simple look fits minimalist styles. Although less detailed, they can be customized with stains or finishes for added character.

French Doors

French doors are characterized by multiple glass panels framed in wood. They add elegance and allow natural light to enter the home.

They often use woods like oak or pine for durability while supporting the glass structure.

Barn Doors

Barn doors have a rustic appearance, often made of reclaimed or weathered wood. They slide on a top-mounted track, saving space compared to traditional swinging doors.

These doors bring a unique charm to homes, especially fitting rustic or farmhouse styles.

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Dutch Doors

Dutch doors are split horizontally, allowing the top and bottom halves to open independently. This design is both practical and charming.

Often made with strong woods like oak, these doors are ideal for ventilation while maintaining security. They add a quaint touch to home entrances.

1. Determine Your Budget

Wooden doors vary greatly in price, so it's important to know how much you're willing to spend.

Simple-engineered wood doors can start at around $200, while solid wood options range from $500 and up. Custom designs or rare wood types can increase the cost significantly.

2. Consider Wood Species

Different woods offer unique looks and benefits.

Mahogany is prized for its durability and rich appearance.

Oak offers a beautiful grain and strength.

Knotty alder is cost-effective and ideal for rustic styles.

Each type of wood can create a different aesthetic, so consider what suits your home best.

3. Evaluate Design and Style

Think about the design that fits your home's architecture. Traditional homes might benefit from elegant, paneled designs, while modern dwellings might call for sleek and simple styles.

Various finishes and stains can enhance the wood's natural beauty, providing a customized look that complements the exterior.

4. Check for Quality Construction

Look for doors that are solidly constructed to ensure longevity. Quality craftsmanship includes well-joined pieces and a smooth finish.

Some doors may come prehung, which means they are already mounted in a frame, simplifying installation.

5. Explore Glass Options

Adding glass to a wooden door can increase natural light and enhance decorative appeal.

Choose from options like clear, frosted, or stained glass. Safety and energy efficiency are important, so consider double-glazed glass to provide insulation and added security.

6. Measure Accurately

Accurate measurements are crucial. Measure the height and width of the existing door space.

Keep in mind that frame size may also need adjustment for a perfect fit. Adding half an inch to the height and half to three-quarters of an inch to the width ensures proper clearance.

7. Account for Climate and Maintenance

Consider the local climate, as wood can expand or contract with changes in temperature and humidity.

Regular maintenance is needed to prevent wear and tear. Choose finishes that protect against weather and plan for periodic refinishing or sealing to keep the door looking its best.

The cost of a wooden front door can vary widely based on several factors. Generally, prices range from $500 to $5,000.

Basic doors with simple designs might start at the lower end of the spectrum, while more intricate designs or custom features increase the price. The type of wood used also impacts the cost.

Installation is another influential factor. Professional installation adds to the cost but ensures the door fits properly and functions as intended.

Local labor rates and additional features like decorative glass or hardware affect the total expense.

When budgeting, homeowners should also consider long-term maintenance costs to keep the door looking its best and functioning well over the years.

External, or exterior, doors serve as the entrance and exit points of a building. They offer security, privacy, and insulation.

These doors face the elements, so they need to be sturdy and resistant to weather conditions. Wooden external doors are popular for their warmth and classic look.

External doors come in various styles, including panel, French, and Dutch. Each style offers different features in terms of appearance and functionality.

They can be equipped with locks and other features to enhance security.

In addition to wood, external doors can be made from materials like steel or fiberglass, each offering different benefits and maintenance requirements.

Several wood types are suitable for front doors.

Popular choices include mahogany, oak, knotty alder, and walnut.

Each type has unique characteristics.

Mahogany is known for its rich color and durability resistance to rot.

Oak is strong and has a beautiful grain, making it a classic option.

Cherry offers a smooth, red-toned finish.

Walnut provides a dark, elegant appearance.

The choice of wood often depends on aesthetic preferences and environmental conditions.

It is advisable to select wood that withstands local weather conditions and requires minimal long-term maintenance.

Quality and durability, as well as appearance, are crucial when choosing the wood type for an entry door.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Custom Wooden Doors. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.