Interior & exterior door type style guide

by Allan Wulff, MBA. Ph.D. 04/09/2023

Your guide to door styles and types featured image

Many types of doors are on the market today, with different framework and wood types. Knowing your options can make all the difference when choosing the right door style to fit the appeal of your home. 

What is the most common type of door?

One of the most common door types seen in residential properties is single-hinged doors. This door type is attached to the door frame with vertical hinges on one side, while the opposite side swings out for entry.  

What wood are old doors made of?

There are many species of wood often used in doors; however, pine is seen quite frequently along with alder, which are both great species for paint work.

In addition to these wood types, many interior doors both modern and older are made of maple, oak, and cherry wood - all of which are shaped with ease and take well to both painting and staining. 

What can I do with an old door?

If you have older interior or exterior doors you’d like to repurpose, there are many ways to put them into new use. For example, you can paint an old wooden door and install a floor length mirror, which not only rejuvenates two different pieces, while also creating a classy statement piece.  

Turn old wooden doors into a fancy coffee table with some fresh paint and wooden legs for a fun contemporary spin on something that was once outdated. 

What can I do with unwanted doors?

In the case you’d like to get rid of an old door entirely, it’s essential to dispose of it in the right way. Doors built and painted in homes before 1978 often have paint containing lead, which can be very hazardous. 

It’s best to turn over older doors to a local solid waste facility, so it can be disposed of properly or checking the manufacturing guide for correct disposal instructions. 

Whether you’d like to install glass doors, french doors, or any other model, it’s best to consult a local professional for best results. Both installation and removal can be tedious, but with expert help, you can do so with ease. 



About the Author
Author

Allan Wulff, MBA. Ph.D.

Hello and thank you for visiting! Selling or buying real estate is very serious business! I provide extraordinary results! Prior to real estate I was President/CEO of a number of area technology companies, Vice-Chairman of the INOVA Hospital Association and have been a long time member of the Association for Corporate Growth. With a broker’s training and experience, you get more than just a realtor agent. My negotiating skills and astute problem solving capabilities, honed by executive experience, have proved extremely effective for my clients in achieving their dreams and real estate goals in this current complex and fast paced market. As a long time Northern Virginia resident my experience will benefit you whether you are buying a home or selling a home or are a returning client checking out the many homeowner resources my associates and I offer. Buying a home? I look forward to helping you select the home of your dreams by taking time to listen to your needs and desires. Selling a home? My real estate expertise and many effective marketing programs will give you the exposure and edge you need to sell your home quickly for top dollar. Testimonials. I appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve you and hope you take advantage of the valuable resources I provide. Come back to visit often! I consider this community an excellent place to reside and would love to share with you my enthusiasm for the many neighborhoods in the area. I pride myself on providing unparalleled service and look forward to developing a long-term relationship with you. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss how I can best assist you with your real estate goals. Sincerely, Allan Wulff