The Ultimate Guide to Internal Doors

It’s easy to overlook internal doors when you’re planning a home refresh, but they do a lot of the heavy lifting. Beyond just shutting out a draught or keeping the dog out of the kitchen, the right door can completely change the character of a room. At Beatson’s, we’ve been helping people pick out the right timber doors and hardware since 1966, so we know that a door isn’t just a door; it’s a finishing touch.

Whether you are looking for a bit more privacy or trying to let more light flow through a dark hallway, here is everything you need to consider before making your choice.

TL;DR

• Pick a style that works: Use glazed doors to let light flow through your home or solid oak for a more traditional, sturdy feel.
• Measure three times: Walls are rarely perfectly straight. Measure the width and height of your frame at the top, middle, and bottom to ensure a good fit.
• Don’t forget the finish: Decide if you want a “pre-finished” door that’s ready to go, or a primed one that you can paint to match your décor.
• Hardware matters: Your choice of handles and hinges can completely change a door’s look; don’t treat them as afterthoughts.
• Ask for help: If you aren’t confident with a plane or a chisel, hanging a door can be tricky. There’s no shame in calling in a pro to get it sitting perfectly.

Content

Choosing Your Door Style

The style you choose should reflect your home’s age and how you actually live in it.

• Glazed Doors: Ideal for communal areas like living rooms and kitchens where you want to maximise natural light.
• Panelled Doors: A classic choice. From traditional four-panel designs to more contemporary styles, these add texture and depth to a room.
• Flush Doors: If you’re after a minimalist, modern look, flush doors offer a clean, smooth surface that doesn’t distract the eye.

Material-wise, oak remains a firm favourite for its warmth and durability. If you want a classic option, white doors are a versatile and safe option. For a bit of luxury, walnut offers a rich, darker tone that looks fantastic in modern settings.

The Right Fit & Finish

There is an old saying in the trade: “Measure twice, cut once.” This mantra is never truer than when it comes to internal doors. Before you buy, measure the width, height, and thickness of your existing frame at three points to account for any slight warping or settling in the walls (which happens more often than you’d think!).

You also need to think about the finish. Are you looking for a pre-finished door that’s ready to hang, or would you prefer a “touched-up” finish where you apply your own wax, oil, or paint? A good finish doesn’t just look better; it protects the wood from moisture and daily wear and tear.

For a deep dive into getting the dimensions perfect, take a look at our detailed How to Fit an Internal Door guide.

Hardware and Accessories

Think of your handles and hinges as the jewellery for your door. You could have the most expensive oak door in the world, but if you pair it with flimsy, mismatched hinges, it’s going to feel “off.”

• Handles & Knobs: Consider the grip and the finish. Chrome and stainless steel are great for modern homes, while brass or antique black suits more traditional interiors.
• Hinges: Ensure they are sturdy enough to support the door’s weight, especially if you’ve chosen solid wood.
• Latches: Don’t forget the internal mechanism. A high-quality latch delivers a satisfying “click” and keeps the door shut when it’s supposed to.

Picked your handles, but not sure where to start? See our step-by-step guide on How to Fit a New Door Handle.

The Installation Process

Hanging a door is one of those jobs that looks easy until you’re halfway through it. It requires patience and a bit of precision. You’ll need to ensure the hinge recesses are cut accurately and that the door is planed properly so it doesn’t rub against the carpet or the frame.

If you aren’t confident with a chisel and plane, it’s always worth calling in a professional to get that perfect swing. However, if you’re ready to tackle it yourself, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to get started? Read our comprehensive guide on How to Fit an Internal Door for everything you need to know to get the job done right.

If you have any questions about which door is right for your project, or if you need to check stock at your local branch, our team is always happy to help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the most popular styles of internal doors? 

Oak doors are a perennial favourite because they are durable and bring a bit of warmth to a room. However, white doors are very popular in modern homes, as they give a clean, versatile look.

Do I need to paint or treat my new internal doors? 

It depends on what you buy. “Pre-finished” doors come ready to hang and don’t require any extra work. “Primed” doors have a base coat but need a final lick of paint. If you buy “unfinished” timber, you’ll need to apply a varnish, oil, or paint to protect the wood from warping.

How do I know what size internal door to buy? 

Always measure the internal opening of the door frame, not the old door itself. Measure the width and height at three points, then use the largest measurement to choose your door size. Most doors can be trimmed slightly, but it’s always better to start with the closest fit possible.

Can I replace an internal door without replacing the frame? 

Yes, in most cases, you can just swap the door. However, if your frame is significantly warped or out of alignment, a new door might not sit correctly. If the frame is in good nick, you just need to ensure the new door is measured to fit the existing opening.

What hardware do I need for a new door? 

At a minimum, you’ll need a pair of hinges (usually three for heavier solid wood doors), a latch mechanism, and a pair of handles or knobs. If it’s for a bathroom or a bedroom where you need privacy, you’ll also need to consider a thumb-turn lock or a bolt.

Changing your internal doors is one of those small updates that makes a massive difference to how your home feels day-to-day. It’s not just about picking a style you like; it’s about ensuring a solid fit that stands the test of time (and the occasional slammed door).

At Beatson’s, we’ve been supplying the trade and DIYers since 1966, so we’ve seen every type of frame and wonky wall imaginable. If you’re ready to pick out your new doors or just need a bit of advice on which hinges won’t squeak, pop into your nearest depot to chat with the team and see our timber ranges in person. You can also browse the full collection online, and as always, our experts are on hand if you need a bit of a steer to get the job done right.

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