Replacing Interior Doors

Welcome to our guide on replacing the interior doors in your UK home! It’s a change that can dramatically refresh your space, boosting both its style and functionality. New doors can redefine a room’s character, improve insulation, and create a more cohesive look throughout your home. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything from choosing materials to the final installation, helping you select beautiful and durable doors that you’ll love for years to come.

Choosing the right style of interior doors is the first step in transforming your home’s aesthetic. In the UK, popular options range from traditional panel doors to sleek, contemporary doors that suit modern interiors perfectly. Styles like Shaker doors offer a timeless look, while flush doors provide a minimalist canvas.

Each type offers unique benefits in terms of versatility and visual appeal. Whether you want to make a bold statement or create a subtle, uniform look, there’s a door style that fits your vision. Let’s look closer at the most common designs.

Panel Doors, Flush Doors, and Glazed Options

Panel doors are a classic choice, featuring a pattern of square or rectangular panels that add depth and character. They are incredibly versatile and suit both traditional and modern homes. In contrast, flush doors have a completely smooth, flat surface on both sides. Their simple design makes them ideal for contemporary spaces and allows them to blend in seamlessly with your walls.

For rooms where you want to maximize natural light, glazed doors are an excellent solution. These doors feature one or more glass panels, allowing light to flow between spaces and make your home feel brighter and more open. The style of glazing can vary from a single, large pane to multiple smaller ones, offering different levels of privacy and design. Many top brands in the UK, such as LPD Doors and Deanta, offer a wide variety of these styles.

• Panel Doors: Offer a traditional, textured look with classic detailing.
• Flush Doors: Provide a minimalist, modern aesthetic with a smooth finish.
• Glazed Doors: Increase the flow of natural light, making spaces feel larger.

Solid Wood vs. Engineered Internal Doors

When selecting a material, a key decision is choosing between solid wood and engineered internal doors. Solid wood doors, crafted from a single piece of timber, are renowned for their strength, natural beauty, and excellent insulation properties. They offer fantastic durability and a premium feel that can truly stand the test of time.

Engineered doors, on the other hand, are constructed with a core of composite materials like MDF or particleboard, finished with a high-quality wood veneer, such as an oak veneer. These doors often feature a solid core, which provides a weighty feel and good sound insulation similar to solid wood.

While solid wood is prized for its authenticity, engineered internal doors are often more stable, as they are less prone to warping or shrinking with changes in temperature and humidity. This makes them a practical and durable choice, with many options available as a fire door for added safety.

Choosing the Right Material for Your Replacement Door

The material of your interior doors affects not only their appearance but also their durability, weight, and maintenance needs. From the classic appeal of solid oak to the budget-friendly nature of pine doors, the right material can define the character of your living space.

You’ll encounter various options, including different types of softwood and hardwood, as well as engineered cores with an oak veneer or plywood finish. Understanding the unique qualities of each will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your home’s style and your family’s needs.

Oak, Pine, and Other Popular Woods

Oak is one of the most popular choices for interior doors in the UK, and for good reason. Known for its strength and beautiful grain, solid oak brings a timeless, premium quality to any room. Pine doors are another common option, valued for their lighter color and rustic charm. As a softwood, pine is typically more affordable and can be easily painted or stained to match your decor.

Engineered materials also offer great versatility. Doors with an MDF or plywood core and an oak veneer provide the desirable look of solid wood but often at a lower cost and with greater stability. These options are perfect for achieving a consistent and stylish finish throughout your home without the expense of solid timber.

• Oak: A durable hardwood with a distinctive grain, offering a classic, high-end look.
• Pine: A cost-effective softwood with a light, knotty appearance that is easy to customize.
• Engineered (Oak Veneer): Combines an affordable core (like MDF) with the beautiful finish of real oak.

Comparing Durability and Appearance

When choosing a door, it’s essential to balance durability with appearance. Oak doors are famously durable and their rich grain adds a touch of elegance that ages beautifully. Pine doors offer a warm, rustic appearance but, as a softwood, can be more susceptible to dents and scratches over time.

Engineered doors with a solid core and an oak veneer offer the best of both worlds. They provide the sophisticated appearance of solid oak while being more resistant to environmental changes that can cause warping. An MDF core is often lighter and more budget-friendly but may not feel as substantial or block sound as effectively. The right choice will stand the test of time in both style and structure.

Material	Durability	Appearance
Solid Oak	Very High	Premium, distinct grain, classic
Pine	Medium	Light, rustic, can be painted/stained
Engineered (Solid Core)	High	Mimics solid wood, consistent finish
Engineered (MDF Core)	Medium	Smooth, often painted, modern

Measuring Up – Getting the Correct Door Size

Getting the measurements right is one of the most crucial steps when replacing interior doors. An ill-fitting door not only looks wrong but can also cause issues with drafts, noise, and proper closing. Accurate measuring ensures a professional and functional finish.

Fortunately, there are standard door sizes across the UK that fit most modern homes. However, if you have an older property or an unusual opening, custom sizing may be necessary. We’ll explore how to measure correctly to avoid any fitting-day frustrations.

How to Measure Your Doorway Accurately

To get the correct door size, you need to measure the existing door frame, not the old door itself, as it may have been trimmed to fit. Use a tape measure to get the most accurate readings. It’s important to measure in several places, as not all door frames are perfectly square, especially in older UK homes.

For the width, measure across the inside of the frame at the top, middle, and bottom. For the height, measure from the floor covering to the underside of the frame on both the left and right sides. You should also measure the thickness of the door jamb to ensure your new door will sit flush within the frame. When ordering, use the smallest of the width measurements and the smallest of the height measurements to ensure the new door will fit. This process is the same for standard doors and bi-fold doors.

• Measure Width: Take three measurements—top, middle, and bottom—inside the door frame.
• Measure Height: Take two measurements—left and right—from the floor to the top of the frame.
• Record the Smallest: Use the smallest width and height measurements for your order.
• Check Thickness: Measure the depth of the door jamb.

Common UK Door Sizes and Custom Sizing Tips

In the UK, internal doors are available in a range of standard imperial and metric sizes. The most common imperial width for internal doors is 30 inches (762mm) with a height of 78 inches (1981mm). Standard thicknesses are typically 35mm for regular doors and 44mm for fire doors. Knowing these standard sizes can make shopping for a replacement much simpler.

However, many homes, particularly older ones, have non-standard openings. If your measurements don’t match standard sizes, don’t worry. Many suppliers, including specialists like LPD Doors, offer trimming allowances on their doors, allowing you to shave off a small amount from the edges for a perfect fit.

For significantly different dimensions, custom sizing is the best solution. This ensures your new door, whether it’s a single slab or a set of fold doors, is made to your exact specifications for a flawless installation. Always check with your supplier about the options available for unique openings.

Selecting the Best Finish and Style

The finish and style of your interior doors are what truly bring your vision to life. A finish not only adds colour but also protects the door from moisture, scratches, and daily wear. Options like painting, stain, or varnish each offer a different look and level of durability.

Similarly, the style you choose—from the clean lines of a Shaker door to the minimalist appeal of contemporary doors—should complement your home’s overall design. Let’s explore how to pick the perfect combination of finish and style for your space.

Paint, Stain, and Varnish Finish Options

Choosing the right finish is essential for both protecting your door and achieving the desired aesthetic. Paint is a popular choice because it offers an unlimited colour palette, allowing you to make a bold statement or match your walls for a subtle look. A painted finish can also hide imperfections in the wood and is relatively easy to touch up.

A stain, on the other hand, is designed to enhance the natural beauty of the wood grain. Staining is perfect for high-quality timber like oak, as it adds rich colour while allowing the texture to show through. Varnish provides a clear, protective coating that seals the wood and gives it a durable, often glossy or satin, finish. It’s an excellent choice if you love the natural colour of the wood but want to protect it from wear and tear.

• Paint: Offers endless colour options and a smooth, uniform finish.
• Stain: Enhances the natural wood grain and adds rich colour.
• Varnish: Provides a durable, clear protective layer that showcases the wood’s natural beauty.

Style Choices for Modern and Period Homes

The style of your doors should harmonize with your home’s architecture. For modern or contemporary homes, flush doors are an excellent choice due to their clean, minimalist appearance. Their smooth, featureless surface creates a sleek look that doesn’t distract from other design elements. Contemporary doors often play with geometric patterns or unique glazing for a striking effect.

In period homes, traditional styles work best. Classic panelled internal oak doors add a sense of grandeur and authenticity. Shaker doors, with their simple, unadorned frame-and-panel design, are incredibly versatile and can bridge the gap between traditional and modern aesthetics.

For any home style, glazed doors can be a fantastic addition. They introduce light and a sense of openness, making them perfect for connecting living areas. Whether you opt for a classic design or sleek oak doors with modern glazing, the right style will elevate your interior.

Fitting Your New Interior Door

Once you’ve chosen your perfect interior doors, the next step is installation. This can be a straightforward DIY project if you have the right tools and a bit of patience. However, for more complex jobs, like fitting a heavy door or a certified fire door, hiring a professional might be the wiser choice.

A successful installation is key to ensuring your door hangs correctly, swings smoothly, and latches securely. Let’s break down the steps for a DIY approach and discuss when it’s best to call in an expert.

DIY Installation Steps

If you’re tackling the installation yourself, preparation is key. Start by carefully removing the old door from its hinges. If your new door isn’t pre-drilled, you’ll need to mark the positions for the hinges and latch. Place the new door next to the old one to accurately transfer these markings.

Next, you will need to chisel out shallow recesses (mortises) for the hinges on the edge of the door. Once the mortises are ready, attach the hinges to the door using screws. With a helper, lift the door into the frame and attach the other side of the hinges to the door jamb. Check that it swings freely and closes properly.

Finally, install the handles and the latch mechanism. A DIY installation can be a rewarding project, but it requires precision. Taking your time and measuring twice will ensure a great result.

• Remove the old door and transfer hinge locations to the new one.
• Chisel out mortises for the hinges on the door edge.
• Attach the hinges to the door, then hang the door in the frame.
• Check for smooth operation and make any necessary adjustments.
• Install the handles, latch, and strike plate.

When to Hire a Professional for Door Replacement

While a DIY approach can save money, there are times when hiring a professional is the best decision. If the door frame is old, warped, or not square, a professional joiner will have the skills to adjust it or the door for a perfect fit. This is particularly important for achieving a clean, professional finish.

Fitting heavy internal oak doors can also be challenging and risky to do alone. A professional will have the right equipment and techniques to handle the weight safely. Most importantly, the installation of a fire door must be done by a certified professional. Correct fitting is a legal requirement to ensure it provides the specified fire protection in an emergency.

Ultimately, if you’re not confident in your skills or are short on time, calling an expert ensures the job is done right the first time, giving you peace of mind.

Hardware and Accessories

The right hardware is the finishing touch that completes your new interior door. Items like handles, hinges, and locks are not just functional—they are key design elements that contribute to the overall style. The quality of your hardware also impacts the door’s performance and longevity.

From sleek, modern door handles to classic, ornate hinges, the options are vast. It’s important to choose hardware that is compatible with your door type and complements your home’s decor, down to the small details like escutcheons.

Choosing Suitable Handles, Hinges, and Locks

When selecting hardware, consider both function and style. For door handles, you can choose between lever handles, which are easy to operate, and doorknobs, which offer a more traditional look. The finish of the handles—be it polished chrome, satin nickel, or matte black—should align with other fixtures in your home for a cohesive design.

Hinges are crucial for smooth operation. You’ll typically need two or three hinges per door, depending on its weight. Ensure they are strong enough to support your door without sagging over time. For rooms requiring privacy, such as bedrooms and bathrooms, you’ll need to install locks. A simple thumb-turn lock is often sufficient for interior use.

Don’t forget the smaller details like escutcheons, which are the plates that surround a keyhole. These add a decorative touch and protect the wood around the lock.

• Lever Handles: Modern and accessible, available in many finishes.
• Ball Bearing Hinges: Ideal for heavy doors, ensuring a smooth, quiet swing.
• Thumb-Turn Locks: Provide simple, effective privacy for bathrooms and bedrooms.

Tips for Door Furniture That Complements Your Home

To ensure your door hardware enhances your home’s style, aim for consistency. The finish of your door handles, hinges, and locks should complement each other. For a modern home, sleek hardware in finishes like satin chrome or matte black works well. For a traditional or period property, consider classic materials like polished brass or antique bronze.

Think about the door’s colour and style as well. A dark door can be beautifully contrasted with bright, metallic handles, while a white door might look best with subtle, matching hardware. The shape of the hardware matters too; angular, geometric handles suit contemporary doors, whereas curved, ornate designs are better for classic panelled doors.

By coordinating your hardware choices, you create a thoughtful and unified look that ties your entire interior design together, making your new doors a true feature of the home.

Maintaining & Caring for Wooden Internal Doors

Once your beautiful wooden internal doors are installed, proper maintenance is key to keeping them looking great for years. Regular cleaning and care will protect the finish, whether it’s paint, varnish, or stain, and prevent damage from dirt and moisture.

A simple maintenance routine can prevent common issues like scratches and warping. By taking a few preventative steps, you can ensure your doors continue to function smoothly and enhance your home’s appearance long into the future.

Cleaning and Maintenance Best Practices

Keeping your wooden doors clean is simple. For regular cleaning, a soft, dry cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust. For a deeper clean, use a slightly damp cloth with a mild soap solution, but be sure to wipe the door dry immediately afterward to prevent moisture from damaging the wood or finish. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners, as they can strip away varnish or stain.

For doors with a natural wood finish, like oak doors, you may want to reapply a protective oil or wax every few years to nourish the wood and maintain its luster. If you notice any chips or scratches, it’s best to touch them up promptly to prevent further damage.

This is especially important for softwood doors, which are more susceptible to dents. A little proactive maintenance goes a long way in preserving the beauty and integrity of your doors.

• Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
• Clean with a mild soap and water solution, then dry immediately.
• Avoid abrasive or chemical cleaners that can damage the finish.
• Check hardware periodically and tighten any loose screws on handles or hinges.

Preventing Warping and Damage Over Time

Wooden doors can be susceptible to warping, which happens when the door bows or twists out of shape. This is usually caused by changes in humidity and temperature, where one side of the door absorbs more moisture than the other. In the UK, with its variable climate, this can be a concern.

To prevent warping, ensure your home has adequate ventilation to manage humidity levels. Applying a high-quality, sealing finish—like paint, varnish, or a durable oil—to all six sides of the door (front, back, and all four edges) before installation is crucial. This creates a barrier that stops moisture from getting into the wood.

Choosing a durable, well-constructed door, such as one with a stable engineered core, can also significantly reduce the risk of warping. Proper sealing and a stable indoor environment will help your doors remain straight and functional for their entire lifespan.

Budget and Cost Considerations

Establishing a budget is a vital part of planning your door replacement project. The cost of interior doors in the UK can vary widely depending on the material, style, and finish you choose. While it can be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, it’s important to balance cost with quality.

Investing in quality internal doors is an investment in your home’s value and your daily comfort. Understanding the typical price range for different types of doors will help you allocate your budget effectively and find options that are both beautiful and built to last.

Average Price Ranges for Quality Internal Doors

The price range for interior doors can differ significantly based on the material. Simple, hollow-core MDF doors are the most budget-friendly option, often available for under £100. Pine doors typically fall into a mid-range category, offering the appeal of real wood at a moderate price.

Engineered doors with an oak veneer provide a premium look and are priced competitively, while solid oak doors represent the top end of the market due to their superior quality and durability. Glazed doors or those from premium brands like LPD will also be higher in price. Remember to factor in the additional costs of hardware and, if needed, professional installation.

Door Type	Average Price Range (per door, excluding hardware)
White Primed MDF	£90 – £150
Pine	£120 – £250
Engineered Oak Veneer	£120 – £350
Solid Oak	£250 – £450+

Balancing Cost with Quality and Appearance

Finding the right balance between your budget, desired quality, and appearance is key to a successful project. While solid oak doors offer unmatched quality and a stunning appearance, high-quality engineered doors can provide a very similar look and excellent durability for a fraction of the cost. They are a fantastic way to achieve a premium aesthetic without overstretching your budget.

Consider where you can save and where it’s worth spending a bit more. For example, you might choose more affordable doors for closets or utility rooms and invest in higher-quality solid oak or glazed doors for high-traffic areas like the living room and hallway.

Ultimately, a slightly higher initial investment in a well-made door will pay off in the long run through better performance, greater durability, and timeless style. This ensures you get the best value for your money.

Enhancing Aesthetics & Functionality

Replacing interior doors can significantly enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your home. By understanding the various door types, materials, and fitting options, you can make informed decisions that reflect your style while ensuring durability. Remember to measure accurately and select finishes that complement your decor. Whether you choose to tackle the installation as a DIY project or hire a professional, maintaining your new doors will keep them looking pristine for years to come. Take this opportunity to elevate your living space with beautiful and practical interior doors. If you’re ready to transform your home, get in touch today for expert advice and assistance!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are glazed wooden internal doors suitable for kitchens and living rooms?

Yes, glazed interior doors are an excellent choice for kitchens and living rooms. They allow natural light to flow between spaces, making your home feel brighter and more connected. They add a touch of elegance while maintaining a sense of openness, which is perfect for these central living areas.

Can I replace an interior door without changing the frame?

Absolutely. In most cases, you can replace just the door slab and keep the existing frame, as long as the frame is in good condition and square. This makes the replacement process quicker and more affordable. You’ll just need to ensure the new door is the correct size for the opening.

What’s the easiest way to keep wooden doors looking new?

The easiest way to maintain wooden doors is through regular, gentle cleaning. Simply dusting them weekly with a soft, dry cloth and wiping away any smudges with a slightly damp cloth will prevent dirt buildup and protect the finish, whether it’s varnish, paint, or stain.

Key Highlights

• Explore the main types of wooden interior doors, including panel, flush, and glazed styles, to find the perfect fit for your home.
• Learn to distinguish between materials like solid oak, pine, and engineered core doors to balance durability with appearance.
• Discover how to accurately measure your doorways for a seamless replacement, whether you need standard or custom sizing.
• Understand the different finish options, from paint and stain to varnish, and how they protect and style your doors.
• Get practical tips on DIY installation, hardware selection, and ongoing maintenance to keep your doors looking their best.
• Review cost considerations to help you budget for quality internal oak doors that will stand the test of time.