Solid core interior doors balance sturdiness and quality construction with a reasonable price. Although some situations may require just a simple hollow core door or a solid wood door, solid core interior doors blend other materials and are excellent option for general use around the house. Read on to learn more about solid core interior doors.
The Basics of Solid Core Interior Doors
Made to simulate the appearance of a traditional wood door, solid core interior doors are built with a medium density fiberboard (MDF) inner core. This MDF core makes these doors heavier than hollow core doors. A layer of plywood surrounds the MDF core. This plywood is coated with veneer finish to give the door the appearance of natural wood.
While they are generally a more expensive alternative to hollow core doors, there are plenty of benefits to investing in solid core interior doors for your home. In general, solid core interior doors will give you more for your money in terms of your door's lifespan. Because solid core interior doors are dense, there also tends to be far less noise transmission over other material options, making them an excellent option for doorways or rooms where you hope to maintain privacy and quiet. Additionally, many homeowners also favor the improved safety and fire rating of solid core interior doors over their hollow core counterparts.
General Costs of Solid Core Interior Doors
Solid core interior doors have both the natural look and sturdy feel of an authentic wood door at a far more manageable price range. Solid core interior doors fall between solid wood doors and hollow core doors on the cost spectrum. Prices usually start between $120 and $200 for a standard door, although solid core interior doors with high-grade finishes or other hardware can cost as much as $325 or more. Additionally, to have the door hung by a professional, costs generally run between $150 to $200 for installation.
Bottom Line: More Quality for a Still Reasonable Price
Although more expensive upfront, solid core interior doors longterm durability can make them just as cost-efficient as hollow core doors. Unless your home's architectural structure specifically calls for either solid wood or hollow core doors, solid core interior doors are most likely a homeowner's best option for a substantial door with the sturdy feel and appearance of authentic wood for a reasonable price.
