Wood Interior Doors vs. Entry Doors in Toronto: 3 Differences Explained

Properly selecting new doors for your Toronto-area home is important. For instance, the front (or entry) door is one of the first things people see in regard to your home. A well-selected entry door adds value to your home and ensures its safety and security. As such, it needs to be both look good and be durable. Entry doors come in different materials, like wood, steel, and fibreglass, but solid wood entry doors remain a timeless choice for Toronto-area homeowners.

Similarly, interior doors provide security inside the house. Though they do not need to be as durable, they still need to look beautiful and match your interior decor. A badly selected interior door brings down the overall aesthetic of your home.

Both entry and interior doors have different requirements, come in different styles, and must be maintained differently. Let’s look at three key differences between interior doors and entry doors for your Toronto-area home.

Interior Doors & Entry Doors in Toronto: Requirements, Maintenance & Aesthetics

Here are the three main differences to keep in mind when getting interior and exterior doors:

1. Requirements

When choosing between interior and exterior doors, it’s important to understand the differences in their requirements and features to ensure they meet your needs.

Material and Construction

Front doors in Toronto homes are built to withstand the elements and provide security. These doors often have a solid core and may include reinforced metal frames, offering strength and insulation against temperature and sound. Modern entry doors may combine materials like glass frames with insulating cores. Solid wood doors are often valued for their resistance to dents.

In contrast, interior doors are designed primarily for separating indoor spaces, so they’re usually lighter and less sturdy. Most interior doors have a hollow core and are often made from a single material. They aren’t exposed to external elements, meaning they don’t need the same level of durability or insulation. As a result, they are generally more affordable than exterior doors.

Weight and Thickness

One noticeable difference between interior and exterior doors is their weight. Interior doors are generally lighter due to their hollow core design and materials, making them easier to use within the home. For example, an interior door might weigh around 20kg. On the other hand, exterior doors are sturdier due to their solid cores and reinforced materials, weighing approximately 35 kg.

Their thickness also sets interior and exterior doors apart. Interior doors are usually around 40 mm thick and don’t need to be as durable or insulated. Exterior doors, however, often feature an extra-thick core (usually about 50 mm) to keep out weather and improve overall security.

Remembering these points while shopping for doors will help you select ones that fit your needs perfectly.

2. Maintenance

Maintaining interior and exterior doors requires different approaches due to their distinct materials and exposure to various elements. Here’s a comparative overview of their care and maintenance:

Exterior Doors

Exterior doors are constantly exposed to weather, dust, and other environmental factors, making regular upkeep essential. To prevent corrosion and damage, it’s recommended that you dust them weekly. Cleaning with mild dish soap and warm water at least once a month helps remove grime, rust, and salt deposits, especially if you live near the ocean or in areas with a lot of air pollution.

If you want to maintain your doors while saving money, consider searching for a discount for doors in Toronto to get quality cleaning products at a lower price. Avoid abrasive materials like steel wool, which can scratch the surface and damage protective coatings.

For wooden exterior doors, you can restore their shine and protect them against UV rays via regular polishing with varnish, wax, or polyurethane. Additionally, refinishing may be necessary when the door shows signs of wear, such as chipped paint or cracks. This process often involves sanding, applying rust inhibitors, and adding a fresh protective coat. Inspecting its weather stripping and sealing gaps around the door frame every other year is crucial to ensure energy efficiency and protect against drafts.

Interior Doors

Interior doors, particularly those made from engineered wood, are designed to be lower maintenance. Cleaning involves a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth dipped in mild soap and water, as they aren’t exposed to harsh elements. Unlike solid wood, engineered wood doors do not require waxing or polishing, making them easier to maintain.

Seals, hinges, and locks should be regularly inspected for interior door maintenance. Loose or worn-out hinges can affect door alignment, while creaky or faulty locks indicate the need for repair or replacement. Dusting seals and checking for breaks or gaps ensures proper functionality and extends the door’s lifespan. Interior doors typically require this inspection every few months.

In summary, exterior door maintenance protects against environmental damage and involves dusting, polishing, refinishing, and inspecting weatherproofing elements. On the other hand, interior doors, including even custom interior doors, in Toronto-are homes require simpler upkeep that focuses on regular cleaning, checking hardware, and ensuring smooth operation.

3. Design and Aesthetics

Interior and exterior doors have distinct design elements contributing to a home’s overall aesthetic. Understanding these differences is key when choosing doors that match both the interior decor and exterior style.

Interior Doors

Interior doors play a big role in setting the mood and style of a room. Classic panel doors are a favourite because they add depth and character. If you’re into a rustic vibe, barn doors are a great choice; they’re both practical and a standout feature. For a modern design, custom wooden doors with glass panels in Toronto offer unique options to improve the room’s aesthetics. You can choose from wood, glass, or composite materials to match your room’s look. Even small details like knobs and handles can make a difference, either blending in or standing out as eye-catching accents.

Exterior Doors

The design of your exterior doors usually reflects your home’s architectural style, whether traditional or modern. For a classic look, single-entry doors with decorative panels or double-entry doors with elaborate glass inserts make a grand statement.

On the other hand, modern exterior doors are all about clean lines and a minimalist design. They often feature large glass elements for a sleek, contemporary feel. Add-ons like sidelights and transoms boost elegance and let natural light filter into the entryway.

While interior and exterior doors may have different designs, maintaining aesthetic consistency can give your home a more cohesive look. Whether you’re into rustic charm, modern styles, or traditional beauty, picking door designs that suit your home’s inside and outside can elevate its appeal.

 
Choosing good quality entry doors for your Toronto–area home is important for upgrading its style, security, and functionality. However, selecting the right interior door is equally important to maintain the aesthetic look of your home. While entry doors require durability and regular maintenance to withstand the elements, interior doors focus on aesthetics and ease of use. By understanding the differences in materials, upkeep, and design, you can select doors that suit your home’s architectural style and provide lasting value and appeal. Making thoughtful choices will ensure that your interior and entry doors complement each other, creating a cohesive look throughout your home.