Frequently Asked Questions
How can I verify that a “solid wood” door is actually solid?
Request the manufacturer’s specification sheet and ask for a cross-section sample. A stile-and-rail door should show solid lumber throughout the frame and panels. Weigh the door—if a standard 80″ x 30″ door weighs less than approximately 50 lbs, it is likely not solid wood. You can also tap the surface: solid wood produces a dull thud, while hollow core produces a hollow, resonant sound.
Are solid wood interior doors worth the cost premium over solid core?
It depends on your lifecycle plan. If the doors will be painted and are in a rental property where damage is likely, solid wood allows for sanding and refinishing. Solid core doors with a wood veneer can only be refinished once or twice before the veneer is breached. For a 20-year building lifecycle, solid wood is often the lower total cost of ownership.
What is the standard thickness for solid wood interior doors?
The standard is 1-3/8″ (35 mm) for residential interior doors and 1-3/4″ (45 mm) for commercial applications and fire-rated assemblies. The thicker door provides better acoustics and hardware holding but is heavier and requires heavier-duty hinges.
Can solid wood interior doors be used in bathrooms and other high-humidity rooms?
Yes, provided the door is properly finished on all six sides and the room has adequate ventilation. The risk is not the humidity itself but the differential between the two faces of the door. A bathroom door that is finished only on the visible faces will absorb moisture from the bathroom side and cup. Specify a prefinished door or ensure the contractor finishes the top and bottom edges.
How much do solid wood interior doors cost?
Pricing varies significantly by species, construction, and market. As a general range, solid pine slab doors are the entry point, while oak panel doors are a mid-range option, and walnut or custom hardwood doors sit at the premium end. Prehung configurations add jamb and hardware costs. For accurate current pricing, request a quote with your specific dimensions, species, and quantity.
