Solid-core doors are wooden doors with a composite core, as opposed to a hollow core. This makes them more durable and soundproof than hollow-core doors.
These doors usually have a medium-density fiberboard (MDF) filling inside. On the outside, they have a thin layer of veneer or plywood and fir lumber borders. Such an outer layer and boundaries add a premium feel to these doors.
On average, solid core doors cost about $70 to $250 per unit, while hollow core doors cost anywhere between $50 and $150. Because these doors are on the pricier side, they are not a go-to option for casual use.
Instead, they are usually installed in important rooms. For example, homeowners choose to install a solid core door in guest rooms, entryways, and home offices. When budget is not a problem, these doors are also a popular choice for bedrooms and washrooms.
Still, if you’d like a more aesthetically-pleasing option for your bedrooms, consider 27EStore’s solid wood European interior doors.
Advantages of Solid Core Doors
The following are some prominent benefits of solid core doors:
- Long-lasting
- Cheaper than solid wood doors
- Demand minimal maintenance
- Have better soundproofing qualities compared to hollow core doors
- Provide protection against heat loss
- Offer protection against attacks
Disadvantages of Solid Core Doors
The following are the cons of solid core doors:
- Do not offer the feel and aesthetics of a solid wood door
- Difficult to install
How to Install Solid Core Doors
It's best to seek a professional's help when installing a solid core door, as they are difficult to install single-handedly. Still, here's what the installation process looks like:
What you will need:
- Screwdriver
- Clamps
- Circular saw
- Auger bit
- Center punch
- Drill/driver
- Combination square
- Mallet
- Benchtop planer
- Folding rule
- Tape measure
- Time: twelve hours
Procedure:
- Trim the door to fit your door aperture.
- Mark the hardware location on the door frame and the door slab.
- Attach the hinges by chiseling them out. Drill to attach the lockset.
- Hang the door and equip it with hardware.
Solid Core Doors Versus Hollow Core Doors
Despite being comparatively weaker and less promising, hollow core doors give tough competition to solid core doors. This is because they are inexpensive and come in a variety of style options; they are also easier to repaint and decorate.
In terms of sturdiness, hollow core doors are less robust and lightweight when compared to solid core doors, but they suffice for in-house needs. They are easy to maintain and easier to handle for nearly anyone.
On the contrary, if you seek an exterior door that successfully withstands harsh weather and other factors, a solid core door is a better choice. It's difficult to damage and lasts much longer than hollow core doors.
Solid Core Doors Versus Solid Wood Doors
Often, solid core doors are confused with solid wood doors. Both of these doors appear the same on the outside, but on the inside, there's a huge difference.
Solid core doors are made of engineered wood (fiberboard), while solid wood doors are made of 100% natural wood. Naturally, solid wood doors offer impressive aesthetics and feel. But they are also vulnerable to wood expansion and contraction caused by drastic changes in temperature. Consequently, solid wood doors demand greater maintenance.
FAQs
Are Solid Core Doors Worth It?
Yes–solid core doors are a budget-friendly and economical investment. Your one-time expenditure will last much longer, compared to hollow core doors.
Are Solid Core Doors Hard to Install?
Yes–solid core doors are difficult to install owing to their heavy weight.
Do Solid Core Doors Increase Home Value?
Solid core doors do not increase home value by thousands, but they can increase home value by hundreds.
How to Make Solid Core Doors Quieter?
Solid core doors are not as soundproof as solid wood doors, but they're better than hollow core doors at soundproofing. You can add to their noise-canceling capabilities by ensuring there's a minimal gap between the bottom of the door and the floor.
Do Solid Core Doors Need Three Hinges?
Interior solid core doors require two to three hinges, but for exterior solid core doors, you'll require at least three hinges.
Do Solid Core Doors Swell?
It depends–a solid core door may swell if you expose the solid core to water for a very long time, but it can easily withstand the impact of light drizzle or splash without swelling and losing its shape.
