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The ultimate guide to selecting interior door materials
Aug 28, 2025

The ultimate guide to selecting interior door materials

Supriyo Khan-author-image Supriyo Khan
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Choosing the right materials for an interior door can be complicated. You need to find an option that suits the property, while also balancing performance, aesthetics, and value. To help you make the right decision every time, we’ve written this short guide. 

Evaluating material durability

The first thing you need to do is consider the material durability you need for the interior doors. There are several types used in the UK, but the most common options are solid wood and MDF. Since each of these has different advantages, we’ll take a more in-depth look.


Solid wood

Solid wood is one of the most aesthetically pleasing options for an interior door, but it can be one of the more expensive choices. In terms of features, it offers excellent durability, longevity, and security. It’s also an incredibly sustainable option, making it perfect for any eco-friendly projects. 


MDF

Also known as Medium Density Fibreboard, this is a practical and affordable option, especially compared to solid wood doors. Thanks to its composition of compressed wood fibres, it’s incredibly versatile but lacks durability. There is one area where it does better than solid wood, however, and that’s warp resistance. While solid wood may shrink or swell with temperature and humidity, MDF stays stable. 

Compliance with UK fire safety standards

While most internal doors don’t need to be certified fire doors, there are some notable exceptions. For instance, if the property’s front door faces onto a common area in the building, then it must be a fire door.


Additionally, in commercial buildings, fire doors are normally required in all doorways that lead to escape routes. This also means that it should be regularly inspected, to ensure it remains fit for purpose.


One more point you should be aware of is that fire doors require steel hinges and must be self-closing. Steel hinges are less likely to warp during a fire, which makes them safer in an emergency. 

Design trends and aesthetic considerations

Interior doors are also the perfect way to show off individuality and creativity in a project. If you’re partaking in a home redesign, then you might want to present several options that suit the homeowners' planned colour scheme and designs. 


If the homeowner is going for a neutral theme, or you want to suggest an option that will suit most designs, then consider a white internal door. This classic option offers timeless design and is easy to pair with most things. 


On the other hand, if they’re after a space-saving option, it may be better to present a pocket door. These slide into the wall and are perfect for pantries and entertaining spaces. 



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