Turning a house into a home requires a special touch. It’s that extra bit of personality and care that you add to your space that transforms it into something that is uniquely yours. The special touch is in the details. And while some people can overlook something as specific as door materials, it’s better to not overlook them. Interior door materials have the power to play off of your decor and take your space from drab to fab! Read on to learn about which door materials could complete the missing piece you need to complete your space.

Tip!

Want to learn more about door types in general? Check out Your Go-To Guide to Interior Door Types!

Door Core Type

Hollow: Hollow doors are mostly used as interior doors. They are lightweight, which makes them easy to open and shut, a great feature for those who prioritize accessibility. This allows for convenience when people need to use them multiple times a day. Hollow doors are great for bedrooms, bathrooms, and closets. Hollow doors are also great for decorative purposes – they can add style to your space without the weight and bulk of a solid door. Use sliding hollow doors as room dividers that won’t take up too much space!

Solid: The choice of solid vs. hollow doors when discussing door cores can be easily made. Taking your needs as well as the placement of the door will help you choose between the two. Solid door cores are typically used for exterior doors because of their heavy weight and high durability. Solid door cores will withstand the elements and add protection to your home. And because solid doors are more dense than hollow doors, solid doors are better at sound proofing.

Door Materials

Wood: Wood is one of the most common types of door materials as wooden doors are sturdy and versatile. A solid wooden door can weigh in at around 58 pounds! But a solid weight comes at a solid price. Solid exterior wooden doors can cost anywhere between $500 to $5,000 depending on the price of the wood that it is made of. While some door materials can only be used for interior or exterior doors, wood can be used for both types. Wooden doors can be made with hollow cores or solid cores and is a great door material option if you’re looking to get a cohesive look around your home.

Glass: Interior glass doors and exterior glass doors can be used in very different ways. Interior glass doors can act as dividers between separate areas. They can also be used in front of pantries, back doors, doors that lead to decks and patios, and closets to let you take a look at what’s inside without you having to open the door. But allowing others to take a peek at what’s on the inside might be the last thing you want from an exterior glass door. Living in a secluded area can grant you privacy from passersby and neighbors; however, if you don't live in a secluded area, some exterior glass doors may still work for you. Many exterior glass doors have smaller glass panes or frosted glass to make it harder to see inside. Overall, glass is a great door material if you want to let in natural light and keep the space open and airy.

Manufactured Wood: There are many different types of door materials that come to mind when you think of door materials, but chances are manufactured wood wasn’t the first. Wooden doors that have been manufactured may resemble regular wooden doors, but the difference lies on the inside. Manufactured wood doors have an exterior layer that is made up of wood, while the inner layer is comprised of cheaper and less attractive wood. Their door materials allow manufactured wood doors to be sold at a lower price point than doors that are made of 100% wood. Manufactured wood doors are perfect for those who want the authentic look of wood on a budget.

Metal: Metal is a door material that often goes unnoticed, but if you’re worried about your home feeling too cold and factory-like with a metal door, don’t be! Metal doors are rarely made of only metal. Metal doors usually come with screens or glass panels. Doors that are completely made of metal are usually used for small spaces like closets and pantries. Metal doors are less expensive than wooden doors, but can be more prone to scratches and dents. Metal exterior doors are used as lightweight screen doors or glass doors that are placed directly in front of a second, more solid front door.

PVC/Vinyl: PVC and vinyl are types of door materials that are made up of plastics. Because plastic is a relatively inexpensive material, PVC and vinyl are the most affordable door materials available. However, PVC and vinyl doors aren’t the most durable or sturdy. While exterior PVC and vinyl doors exist as screen doors, these door materials are mostly used for interior doors. PVC and vinyl doors are not as thick as wood doors and thus are not as good at sound proofing. Consider using PVC and vinyl doors to rooms that don't require privacy such as pantries, closets, or laundry rooms.