Winter in Toronto can be tough. The cold winds, heavy snowfalls, and freezing temperatures make you want to stay indoors as much as possible.
But while you’re cozying up inside, have you ever noticed how your interior doors seem to behave differently? Some doors stick, others don’t close properly, and in some cases, you might feel temperature differences between rooms, especially if there’s poor insulation.
That’s because winter isn’t just hard on people; it’s tough on homes too. Fluctuations in indoor humidity and heating levels can cause certain door materials to expand or contract. Over time, this can affect how well they fit within their frames, leading to minor alignment issues.
If your doors are old or not well-fitted, they might be making your home less comfortable and even costing you extra on heating bills.
Keep reading to find out why winter is actually the best season to upgrade the interior doors in your Toronto-area home. We will also look at how choosing the right interior doors can make your home more comfortable, stylish, and energy efficient.
Let’s get started.
How Toronto’s Cold Winters Affect Your Interior Doors
Winter can put your doors to the test—not because of the cold outside, but due to the changes in indoor air quality. The combination of dry indoor heating and fluctuating humidity levels can cause materials like wood to react, sometimes leading to subtle shifts that affect how smoothly doors open and close.
Warping and Shrinking
Dry indoor heating during winter can cause certain door materials to shrink or shift slightly. If you have older wooden doors, you might notice they become harder to close or develop small gaps around the edges. This is especially common in homes with fluctuating humidity levels or doors that haven’t been properly maintained over the years.
Drafts and Energy Loss
A poorly fitted interior door can contribute to uneven temperature distribution in your home. Gaps around the edges may allow warm air to escape from heated rooms, making it harder to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. This can lead to slight inefficiencies in heating, especially in homes with drafty hallways or large open spaces.
Upgrading to well-insulated, properly installed doors can prevent these energy leaks and help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Sticking and Swelling
Some doors become difficult to open and close when winter arrives. Moisture levels drop, affecting the materials and causing slight shifts in the frame. If your door gets stuck or rubs against the floor, it might be a sign that it’s time for a new one.
Top Benefits of Replacing Interior Doors during Toronto Winters
Many people think home upgrades should wait until spring or summer, but winter is actually the perfect time to replace your interior doors. Here’s why:
Contractors Have More Availability
Winter is generally a slower season for home renovations. Many homeowners postpone their projects until the warmer months, which means installation professionals are easier to book in winter. You won’t have to wait weeks for an appointment, and you might even get better pricing since demand is lower.
Faster Installation Process
Replacing an interior door doesn’t take long, especially when done by experts. Unlike larger renovations, it can be completed in just a few hours. Since there’s no need to open up exterior walls or deal with extreme weather conditions, installation during winter is smooth and hassle-free.
Energy Savings Start Immediately
If you upgrade the interior doors in your Toronto home during winter, you’ll notice the benefits right away. Well-fitted solid doors help maintain consistent room temperatures by reducing airflow between spaces, making heating more efficient. Whether it’s keeping warmth in a home office or improving insulation between rooms, choosing high-quality, properly sealed doors can contribute to a more comfortable indoor environment during the coldest months.
Off-Season Discounts
Since winter isn’t the peak season for renovations, some suppliers and installers offer discounts. You might find a great deal on high-quality interior doors in Toronto-saarea stores that wouldn’t be available at other times of the year.
How to Choose the Best Interior Doors for Your Toronto Home This Winter
Picking the right door is just as important as deciding when to upgrade. Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting new interior doors for your Toronto-area home.
Material Matters
Some materials handle temperature changes better than others, so it’s essential to choose wisely.
- Solid Core Doors: These doors are made from a solid wood that gives them added weight and sturdiness. They provide excellent insulation, which means they’ll help keep your home warm during those chilly winter months. Plus, their dense structure helps block noise from room to room, making them a great choice if you want some peace and quiet in your home.
- MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard): If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, MDF could be the way to go. It is made from wood fibres that are glued together, making it more resistant to slight shifts caused by indoor humidity changes—something that can be a concern for natural wood in homes with fluctuating moisture levels. MDF doors can be painted or veneered to mimic more expensive materials, offering versatility without breaking the bank.
- Glass Panel Doors: These doors have sections of glass that allow natural light to flow through your home while still providing privacy. They can brighten up dark areas of your home and make spaces feel larger. However, it’s important to ensure the glass interior doors you choose are well-insulated or fitted with energy-efficient glass to prevent heat loss.
Size and Fit
When upgrading your interior doors, size and fit are two of the most important factors to consider. A well-fitted door ensures better insulation, improved functionality, and a polished aesthetic that complements your home’s design. Even the most stylish door can look out of place or fail to perform properly if the size isn’t right.
Here are some of the most common interior door sizes in Toronto and where they work best:
- 28×80 interior door for Toronto apartments and condos: This size is ideal for compact areas like bathrooms, closets, and smaller bedrooms. Many homeowners in Toronto opt for this size of door when space is limited but functionality is still a priority. If you live in a condo or an apartment, a 28×80 interior door is a smart choice for Toronto apartments as it maximizes efficiency while maintaining a sleek look.
- 30×80 interior door for modern homes: One of the most common sizes of interior doors, this option is well-suited for bedrooms, home offices, and larger living spaces. A 30×80 interior door in Toronto provides a balanced and spacious feel, allowing smooth movement between rooms while enhancing the overall flow of your home.
- 26×80 interior door for older Toronto properties: If you own a historic home or a property with narrow hallways and doorways, this size might be the perfect fit. Toronto heritage properties homes often feature 26×80 interior doors, which maintain the home’s classic appeal while improving its insulation and efficiency.
Style That Matches Your Home
Interior doors do more than just close off a room; they also contribute to the style of your home. You can choose a modern, clean design or stick with a classic panel style. Either way, the right door can make a big difference in how your space feels.
Some popular options are Shaker-style doors, rustic barn doors, and sleek minimalist flush doors for a more modern look.
Soundproofing Benefits
If your house is often noisy, especially with kids playing in different rooms, having a good interior door can really help cut down on that noise. Solid core doors work great for this, making them perfect for bedrooms, home offices, and spaces where you want to enjoy some quiet time.
Winter in Toronto isn’t just about staying warm. It’s also a great time to make smart home upgrades, starting with your interior doors. Replacing old or poorly fitted doors can improve your comfort, reduce energy bills, and add a fresh look to your space. If you’re ready to upgrade, check out Home Care Supply’s wide range of interior doors. With various styles, sizes, and materials available, you’ll find the perfect option to suit your home. Plus, winter might just be the best time to grab a great deal!