Interior Doors

A Homeowner’s Guide to Interior Doors and Accessories

Interior doors serve an important role in both the functionality and design of your home. They provide privacy, help manage sound, and contribute to the overall aesthetic of each room. Choosing the right type of interior door involves considering the material, style, and how the door will be used.

This article explores various types of interior doors, their uses, and the associated accessories needed to create a cohesive and functional interior door system.

Types of Interior Doors

1. Panel Doors

Panel doors are among the most common and traditional types of interior doors. They feature panels set within the doorframe, which can range from two to eight or more panels. These doors can be either solid or hollow core.

Uses:

  • Bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways

  • Closet doors

Benefits:

  • Available in both solid and hollow core options

  • Can be customized with different panel layouts and finishes

  • Provides a classic, versatile look

Considerations:
Solid-core panel doors offer better sound insulation and durability compared to hollow-core doors. Hollow-core doors are more affordable but provide less soundproofing and strength.

2. Flush Doors

Flush doors have a smooth, flat surface without any paneling or decorative elements. They are a simple and affordable option, often found in modern or minimalist homes.

Uses:

  • Closets and laundry rooms

  • Bedrooms and bathrooms in modern homes

Benefits:

  • Minimalist design that fits modern interiors

  • Affordable and easy to install

  • Available in solid or hollow core options

Considerations:
Flush doors are typically less decorative and may not provide the same visual appeal as panel or French doors. Hollow-core flush doors offer limited soundproofing and durability.

3. French Doors

French doors consist of two doors with glass panels running the length of the door. They are often used to separate rooms or provide an open, airy feel between living spaces.

Uses:

  • Between living rooms and dining rooms

  • Home offices or sunrooms

Benefits:

  • Allows light to pass through, brightening rooms

  • Provides a classic, elegant look

  • Can be used to create an open Floor Plan or closed-off space when needed

Considerations:
French doors offer less privacy and sound control due to the large glass panels. For added privacy, homeowners can choose frosted or Tinted Glass options.

4. Pocket Doors

Pocket doors slide into the wall, making them an excellent space-saving solution for smaller rooms or areas with limited space for a swinging door.

Uses:

  • Bathrooms and closets

  • Laundry rooms and small spaces

Benefits:

  • Space-saving design

  • Ideal for small or awkward spaces

  • Provides a clean, modern look

Considerations:
Pocket doors require a special track system inside the wall, making installation more complex. Repairs can also be more difficult since the door is concealed within the wall.

5. Barn Doors

Barn doors are a popular interior design trend, featuring a large door that slides along a track mounted above the doorframe. They add a rustic or industrial touch to any room.

Uses:

  • Bedrooms and living rooms

  • Closets or Pantry doors

Benefits:

  • Adds visual interest and a rustic or industrial feel

  • Saves space compared to traditional swinging doors

  • Available in various materials and finishes

Considerations:
Barn doors do not seal as tightly as traditional doors, which may impact privacy and sound control. The hardware and installation can also be more expensive than standard doors.

6. Bifold Doors

Bifold doors are made up of two panels that fold together when opened. They are often used in closets or laundry rooms where a full-swing door would take up too much space.

Uses:

  • Closets, pantries, and laundry rooms

  • Room dividers in open spaces

Benefits:

  • Space-saving design for narrow areas

  • Easy to install and operate

  • Available in a variety of styles and finishes

Considerations:
Bifold doors are typically less durable than traditional hinged doors and may not provide as much privacy or soundproofing.

Interior Door Materials

1. Solid Wood

Solid wood doors are made from natural wood and offer the highest level of durability, insulation, and soundproofing. They can be stained or painted to match any decor style.

Uses:

  • Bedrooms, living rooms, and other high-traffic areas

  • Home offices for better sound control

Benefits:

  • Strong, durable, and long-lasting

  • Excellent soundproofing and insulation properties

  • Can be customized with stains and finishes

Considerations:
Solid wood doors are more expensive than hollow-core or MDF options. They are also heavier, requiring stronger Hinges and hardware for proper installation.

2. Hollow Core

Hollow-core doors are lightweight and constructed with a wood or fiberboard frame filled with cardboard or other lightweight materials. They are an affordable option for interior doors.

Uses:

  • Closets, bedrooms, and bathrooms in budget-conscious homes

  • Less-used areas of the home

Benefits:

  • Inexpensive and lightweight

  • Easy to install and replace

  • Available in a variety of styles

Considerations:
Hollow-core doors are less durable and provide minimal soundproofing. They can be easily damaged and may not be suitable for high-traffic areas.

3. Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF)

MDF doors are made from Engineered Wood fibers and provide a smooth, uniform surface. They are often used in modern homes and are a popular option for painted doors.

Uses:

  • Interior doors throughout the home

  • Painted or finished doors for a modern look

Benefits:

  • Smooth surface ideal for painting

  • Less expensive than solid wood

  • Resistant to warping and cracking

Considerations:
MDF doors are not as durable as solid wood and can be prone to damage from moisture or impact. They do not provide as much soundproofing as solid wood doors.

Interior Door Accessories

1. Door Handles and Knobs

Door handles and knobs are essential accessories that come in various styles and finishes, allowing homeowners to match their door hardware with their overall interior design.

Uses:

  • Bedrooms, bathrooms, and closets

  • Available in locking and non-locking options

Benefits:

  • Available in a wide range of styles, including traditional, modern, and vintage

  • Different finishes like brass, nickel, or matte black to match any decor

Considerations:
Choose durable materials for handles and knobs, especially in high-traffic areas. Handles with locks are ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms where privacy is needed.

2. Hinges

Hinges are crucial for attaching the door to the frame and ensuring smooth operation. They come in various sizes and finishes to match your door’s design.

Uses:

  • Used to attach the door to the doorframe

  • Available in different finishes to match door hardware

Benefits:

  • Provides support and stability for the door

  • Available in different finishes to complement door hardware

Considerations:
For heavier doors, such as solid wood or barn doors, consider using larger or more durable hinges to prevent sagging. Regular maintenance is needed to ensure smooth operation.

3. Door Stops

Door stops prevent the door from hitting the wall or furniture when opened. They are available in various designs, including floor-mounted, wall-mounted, and hinge-mounted options.

Uses:

  • Prevents damage to walls or furniture

  • Installed behind the door or on the floor

Benefits:

  • Protects walls and doors from damage

  • Easy to install and replace

Considerations:
Choose a Door Stop that matches your interior decor and provides adequate protection for both the door and the wall.

4. Soft-Close Hinges

Soft-close hinges are a popular upgrade for interior doors. These hinges slow the door’s closing motion, preventing it from slamming shut.

Uses:

  • Bedrooms, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas

  • Ideal for homes with children or noise sensitivity

Benefits:

  • Prevents doors from slamming shut

  • Reduces noise and wear on doors

Considerations:
Soft-close hinges are more expensive than standard hinges and may require professional installation.

5. Sliding Door Tracks

For pocket and barn doors, sliding door tracks are necessary to ensure smooth operation. Tracks can be installed in the wall (for pocket doors) or mounted above the door (for barn doors).

Uses:

  • Allows doors to slide open and closed

  • Essential for pocket and barn doors

Benefits:

  • Space-saving solution for small rooms

  • Adds a modern or rustic element to the room

Considerations:
Track systems need to be installed correctly to avoid misalignment and noise issues. High-quality tracks ensure smooth and quiet operation.

Further Reading

Wrap-Up

Choosing the right interior doors enhances the flow, style, and functionality of your home. From classic panel doors to modern barn doors, when rebuilding your home each style offers different benefits at different price points. In addition, proper installation and maintenance is part of a larger plan to keep your home safe, secure and attractive for years to come.