Blogs Details

Buying interior doors can seem simple until you start shopping and realize the numerous materials, designs, and price ranges available for your selection. Many homeowners in the Toronto area spend hours comparing styles online or visiting stores, yet still feel unsure about what to select.

Interior doors do more than simply separate rooms. They also add style, privacy, and comfort to your living space. The right door can make a small room appear larger and reduce unwanted noise. 

However, making the wrong choice can result in wasted money and unnecessary repairs.

If you plan to buy interior doors in and around Toronto, it is vital to be aware of the common mistakes buyers make so you can avoid them. Doing so will help you save time, spend wisely, and get durable, well-fitted doors.

Here, you will learn about the seven mistakes first-time buyers should avoid when purchasing interior doors.

Avoid These Common Interior Door Buying Errors 

When first-time buyers are shopping for interior doors, they often focus on their looks and price to the exclusion of all other factors. However, small oversights during the selection process, as well as the installation, may require costly replacements later. Let’s examine the seven most common mistakes and their simple fixes.

1. Ignoring Door Measurements

A big mistake many homeowners make is guessing how high, wide, and deep their door is. Interior doors must fit the frame properly to open and close smoothly. Buying a standard 32-inch or 36-inch door without measuring may not work if your home is older or custom-built. So, be sure to measure both the height and width of the frame and the current door slab. Also, always check the swing direction, i.e., whether the door opens to the left or right. 

Take these measurements to your door provider before you place an order. Most interior door suppliers in the Toronto area will help their customers with free measuring guidance or in-home measurement services. Accurate measurements save you the trouble of trimming or returning the door you buy later.

2. Choosing Style Over Function

Many homeowners fall in love with a door’s design first and forget to consider where the door will be used. For example, glass panel doors look elegant, but they do not suit bedrooms where privacy is important.

The right door must match the function of the space in which it is installed. For instance, solid core doors are better for bedrooms and offices because they block sound. Hollow core doors, on the other hand, are lighter and work best for closets or hallways. 

When you plan the look of your rooms, think about what each door needs to do. Then you can choose the style of the interior door. This approach keeps your home practical while still looking stylish.

3. Forgetting About Material Quality

Interior doors come in different materials such as wood, MDF (medium-density fibreboard), and composite. Too many buyers make their choice based on price alone and overlook how each material performs.

Solid wood doors cost more than other door materials but last longer and give a warm, natural feel. MDF doors are more affordable and resist warping in humid areas like bathrooms. 

Always ask about door materials before you buy. A good supplier will explain the pros and cons clearly. Spending a bit more now for a better door means fewer replacements later.

4. Skipping Sound Control

Noise is a common problem in busy homes, condos, and townhouses, but many buyers don’t think about it when choosing doors. In Canada, door sound performance is often described using STC (Sound Transmission Class), which measures how well a door blocks airborne noise in a lab test. You may also come across ASTC (Apparent STC), which shows how the door performs once installed, including the frame and surrounding walls.

While most single-family homes don’t have strict sound rules, these ratings are still useful when comparing products. For quieter bedrooms or home offices, pick solid-core doors, add rubber seals around the edges, and install a door sweep at the bottom. In multi-unit buildings, ask your contractor or property manager if there’s a required sound rating for corridor or entry doors so you can choose the right option.

5. Overlooking Finishes and Paint Quality

A door’s finish protects it from scratches, moisture, and fading. First-time buyers sometimes pick unpainted or low-quality finishes to save money. Later, the surface may peel or absorb stains.

Always ask whether the paint is water-based or oil-based and whether the finish has UV protection. If you plan to repaint, choose doors with smooth MDF or primer-coated surfaces. For bathrooms or kitchens, moisture-resistant paint is a must. Spending on a good finish prevents early damage and keeps your doors looking new for years.

6. Ignoring Hardware Compatibility

A good door is only as strong as its hardware. Hinges, locks, and handles must match the door’s weight and thickness, so always buy matching hardware sets. Heavy solid-core doors need strong hinges and screws. Soft-close hinges or magnetic catches also add comfort. 

Before installation, check that the latch and strike plate line up perfectly to prevent squeaks and uneven gaps. Ask your local installer or hardware store for help if you are unsure which hardware suits your chosen door type.

7. Not Checking Supplier Reputation

There are many Toronto-area places to buy doors, but not all offer the same service. Some even sell low-priced imports that look good online but do not meet Canadian standards. So, research your local suppliers before buying. Read reviews and ask if the interior doors meet fire and building codes. Visiting a showroom in person also helps you check the build quality. 

Some well-known retailers also sell interior doors at wholesale prices. This helps homeowners who need more than one door for a renovation project buy quality products at a lower overall cost. A reliable supplier saves you from defective products and delivery delays.

Other Common Buying Errors You Should Know About

Think you have a handle on the basics of interior door buying? Some extra details can still catch new buyers off guard. The following points focus on hidden costs and buying habits that are easy to overlook. Each one can impact your overall satisfaction and budget.

1. Overlooking Installation Quality

Even a high-quality interior door won’t perform well if installed poorly. Gaps, uneven frames, or misaligned hinges make a new door feel cheap. 

When you buy doors, ask whether the cost of installation is included. Some stores partner with local installers who are familiar with their products. If you hire your own carpenter, confirm that they measure twice before cutting or trimming. A correctly fitted door swings freely without rubbing and closes with a firm click. Paying for skilled installation is better than fixing problems later.

2. Neglecting Warranty and After-Sales Support

First-time buyers often throw away their receipts or forget warranty terms. But if a panel later cracks or if paint bubbles, they have no proof to make a claim.

Always keep your invoice and note the warranty period. Reliable suppliers clearly state their warranty policies, covering defects in material or workmanship. 

Ask how service requests are handled. Do they replace, repair, or offer store credit? Having written proof protects you in case of manufacturing issues. This is a small habit that can give a lot of peace of mind.

Practical Buying Tips for Long-Term Value

By now, you already know how to avoid major buying errors when it comes to interior doors. The following points focus on some practical tips that help you make smarter choices, save money, and get better value when you buy interior doors in the Toronto area.

1. Comparing Prices During Sales

Stores often run seasonal discounts, especially on bathroom vanities, flooring, and doors. If you are renovating your entire home, buy during these promotions. Just be sure to always compare actual product specs, not just prices. Two doors that look similar online may differ in thickness, core type, or warranty. Use promotions to save, but never compromise on build quality.

2. Coordinating Door Styles Across Rooms

Mixing too many styles can make your home look messy. Some buyers pick random doors for each room without thinking about the overall theme.

Choose one main style, such as Shaker, flush, or panelled and use it throughout the house. You can slightly vary the finishes, for example, using white doors in the bedrooms and walnut finishes in the hallway, but keep the overall design consistent. 

You can change finishes slightly, like white in the bedrooms and walnut in the hallway, but keep the design consistent. It makes your interiors look well-planned and helps increase your home’s resale appeal. Many local stores offer design consultations if you’re unsure what style fits best.

3. Checking Delivery and Storage Conditions

If installation is not scheduled for the same day as delivery, short-term storage becomes important. Many homeowners book delivery first and installation for a later date, even if it is just the next day or two. In that case, keep doors flat on a dry, level surface indoors, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Avoid standing them upright in a damp garage, because panels can warp. 

When multiple doors arrive, inspect each package upon delivery and note any dents or cracks before you sign. These simple steps protect your purchase, prevent avoidable damage, and reduce the chance of warranty disputes. Reputable suppliers also include clear storage tips with your delivery paperwork. 

Buying interior doors in the Toronto area may look easy, but it involves making careful choices. Taking time to measure correctly, choosing the right material, and working with trusted sellers will help you get durable, stylish doors that suit your home. Whether you are buying from a retail shop or exploring your options online, remember to focus on quality and proper installation. If you are looking for a reliable local source, Home Care Supply offers a wide range of stylish and affordable doors, vanities, and home-renovation products. Get in touch with us to explore current offers and get expert advice.