Oak doors are sold by any and all door retailers but what are they? How much do they cost and are they worth installing in your home? To help you make the right choice, the experts at Doordeals have compiled this guide to oak doors to help you compare price, quality, performance and style with other doors you may be considering. So let’s take a closer look at oak doors.
What are Oak Doors?
Oak doors are a popular choice of external and internal doors that are made primarily from oak; a quality hardwood. As well as solid oak doors, engineered oak doors and other oak veneer doors are widely available and popular choices.
What is a Pre-finished Oak Door?
Pre-finished oak doors are doors which have been completely ‘finished’ by manufacturers meaning they’ve been treated with top coats, lacquers, stains and any other finishing products. Pre-finished doors are a simple out of the box option as they’re ready to hang on delivery.
What is an Unfinished Oak Door?
Unfinished oak doors are doors which have been built but all wood is left bare and untreated. Unfinished doors require staining, painting and sealing before hanging or installing in your property. However, they’re a brilliant choice for those wanting to create their own look but benefit from the durability of oak doors.
What is a Solid Oak Door?
A solid oak door is a door which is made of one (or more which have been joined together professionally) piece of solid oak. Glazed oak doors can still be solid oak as the categorisation refers to the structure of the materials used, not the style of the door.
What is an Engineered Oak Door?
Engineered oak doors are doors which are made up of an outer layer of oak veneer covering an engineered core, primarily engineered timbers, particle board or MDF.
How Much Do Oak Doors Cost?
The cost of oak doors varies depending on the type of oak doors you’re considering. Solid oak doors are the most expensive starting at approximately £100-150 per door for basic styles. Engineered oak doors are slightly less expensive ranging from £80-100 for basic doors. Both types of oak doors can cost upwards of £300 for more complex styles such as glazed oak doors.
What are Common Problems with Oak Doors?
As a natural material; oak doors require some maintenance and consideration for its environment to prevent weathering, damage or increased wear and tear.
The most common problems or consideration with oak doors are:
- Warping, bowing and swelling: Oak is a very porous material so humidity and moisture can affect the wood creating movement which can cause mishaping to the wood which causes sticking when closing or opening.
- Cracking and damage: As a natural material oak needs to be maintained properly with oils, varnishes and seals to prevent cracking overtime.
- Discoloration and sun-bleaching: If exposed to sunlight for prolonged periods oak doors can fade and change colour. Varnishing and staining can help prevent this and rectify any discoloration.
What are the Benefits of Oak Doors?
Oak doors have been popular for decades so let’s take a look at some of the benefits of oak doors which keep people investing in them time and time again.
- Durability and Strength: Oak is a hardwood and solid oak doors can withstand heavy use in high traffic areas for decades resisting wear and tear which might affect softwood doors.
- Heat Insulation: Oak doors are incredibly energy efficient helping lock warmth in during winter and keep properties cooler during summer.
- Noise Insulation: Oak is perfect for busy homes or loud environments as Oak’s natural density acts as a buffer for noise.
- Timelessness: Oak’s warm tones and natural grain have proven popular for decades as a neutral addition to any interior.
How Long Do Oak Doors Last?
If maintained, high quality oak doors should last between 20 and 30 years. Made of hardwood, they are extremely durable and resistant to damage, wear and tear. Oak doors can also be repaired or restored relatively easily and without a huge price tag so prove themselves as a worthwhile investment to any home.
Oak Door FAQs
Should I Buy Finished or Unfinished Oak Doors?
This depends on your priorities; easy installation and peace of mind or individual style partnered with brilliant quality. Finished oak doors can be hung the same day for an easy solution but unfinished oak doors allow you to put your own stamp on your doors and pair them with your interior perfectly.
Is Oak Good for Interior Doors?
Yes. Oak is brilliant for interior doors for a range of reasons; sound insulation, heat insulation, style and appearance, durability and versatility.
Are Oak Internal Doors in Fashion?
Yes, oak doors are always in fashion. Oak is a light toned hardwood offering neutral wooden tones that don’t overpower spaces and pair perfectly with a range of interior styles so once installed they adapt with the property as it changes.
What Handles Look Best on Oak Doors?
Oak doors pair best with antique brass handles, matte black, bronze or stainless steel handles. The versatility of oak lends itself to many styles meaning you can lean into a more traditional and timeless aesthetic or opt for something more contemporary and modern.
Are Oak Doors Worth It?
Absolutely! Oak doors are worth the investment if you’re looking for high quality, stylish doors that will age timelessly with your property and stand the test of time.
Choosing Your Doors
At Doordeals, we know the importance of buying the right doors that cater to your budget, your needs, your personal style and more. That’s why we’ve hand picked a selection of internal doors, external doors, door accessories and more from budget friendly solutions to designer doors such as LPD and Deanta. Struggling to find the right doors for you? Don’t stress! Simply get in touch with our expert team for tailored advice and product recommendations.