The Art of Choosing Proper Internal Doors

The Art of Choosing Proper Internal Doors

Posted by John P. Bradford // July 7, 2016

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With so many options on the market when it comes to materials and designs, the process of choosing the right internal doors has truly turned into a special skill. It takes careful consideration to select the doors that fully accommodate the needs of a specific interior space. We have gathered a good deal of options for you to pick and choose from, so let’s move on to it.

Initial Concerns

1. Style: This aspect can decidedly be a turning point of the room’s décor. Going for eclectic look is permitted as long as the chosen style befits the designated space.
2. Orientation: You can choose between a left-side and a right-side oriented door swing, and this affects the position of the handles and hinges. Note: doors shouldn’t open into a corridor.
3. Framing: The use of inadequate framing or poor quality materials can bring you additional costs in the long run. Consult with the professionals about the setup and the most appropriate design.

The Sound Ratings

The internal doors are also grouped by the STC ratings (sound transmission class). In short, this is a measure of sound attenuation internal doors provide, and this highly depends on the door’s structure and material. The larger the number, the more potent the sound-proof quality of the given door. The STC of 25 is not entirely efficient, while STC of 40 to 60 should give the best results.

Door Materials

Solid wood

The many available variants of this material determine the price and the overall look. The most popular choice are the pine panels, but you can also opt for other hardwood or softwood. They are not suitable for bathrooms due to humidity and temperature.

Medium density fiberboard

Also known as MDF for short, this material is a warp-resistant alternative to solid wood and many household are equipped with it. The absence of grain makes it completely smooth and perfect for paint jobs.

Solid core

It may surprise you that solid core type of doors have an outer shell made of molded composite or plywood. The inside is, however, packed with a blend of wood fiber. This material is great for sound-proofing and temperature management.

Hollow core

Just like a solid core kind, these doors have an external skin made of molded composite or plywood. The difference is, the inside of the panel is hollow, which makes them good for heat distribution throughout the house.

Glass and metal

The use of metal and glass for the internal doors is on the rise. The cause for it is their aesthetic appeal and minimal installation requirements and concerns. Also, they are on the affordable side of the range.

The Plethora Of Internal Door Types

Sliding doors

This type of doors is usually made of glass or wood, or a combination of both. It’s not uncommon to see sliding doors as a part of the closet system as well. They are a foolproof, space-saving choice if you’re after stylish and functional internal doors.

Folding doors

These frequently come in a two-fold form. Their folding feature is great for smaller spaces like pantries or laundry rooms.

Pocket doors

This variant is a stunning and practical addition to the house interior, but its into-the-wall installation can be a bit of a challenge.

Flush doors

These are actually simple, contemporary-style doors with both smooth sides and a predominantly MDF or plywood structure.

French doors

This style of doors stands out with its opaque or transparent glassy panels and a wooden-like frame. French doors are marvelous at space illumination and enlargement.

Barn doors

If you’re after a rustic look, barn doors are a no-brainer. They are utilized for exterior and interior doors alike, and they can be a powerful element of the home design.

Dutch doors

These doors are unique for their horizontal division that allows the bottom to stay closed while the top is removed.

Blind doors

Lastly, blind doors are the Houdini of the door world. With no hinges, handles or trims visible, they blend into a wall masterfully.

With such a rich selection of materials and styles, you’re bound to find something after your own heart. Still, consult the experts for customization.