When looking at new external doors and internal doors, you may have noticed both engineered doors and solid doors on the market. But what is the difference, and which is better suited for your home? At a quick glance, you wouldn’t be able to tell what your current doors are constructed of. So does it really matter, and if so, why?
In this article, we’ll be looking at the main differences between engineered doors and solid wood doors. In particular, why these may have different effects on your home. From performance benefits to increased security, there are many reasons to consider either type of door.
There’s a common misconception that products with an engineered core are inferior to solid equivalents. This is potentially due to the lower price point, as well as the implied quality difference between “solid” and “engineered”. It’s true that a solid oak door set has a desirability factor to it. However, an engineered system has significant performance benefits that shouldn’t be overlooked. Though they might look the same, but it’s what’s on the inside that counts.
Internal Structure
What is a solid construction door?
As the name suggests, a solid construction door is made of separate one-piece components. These are jointed, dowelled or glued together. This is the traditional structure and is still very stable compared to the cheaper hollow and foam core options.
What is a wooden engineered door?
Engineered cores are a more modern approach to door leaf construction. An engineered door consists of multiple layers of timber that are pressed and glued together in different directions. This forms the core material. A veneer is then applied to the surface and lipping fixed to the edges. It is this purposefully arranged construction that gives engineered wood doors their name.
Performance
Both doors boast different properties that will benefit homes.
Solid wood doors
As solid doors are made of whole intersecting pieces, there is an inherent strength that comes from the construction. Solid oak doors are very popular for their strength and durability. As one of the most sturdy solid wood doors on the market, they are also an incredibly luxurious and stylish alternative to other doors.
Solid wood doors are, however, susceptible to environmental changes. Variations in humidity and temperature can have detrimental effects on these doors. Exposure to factors like these can cause a solid door to warp or bow, making it twist and gradually lose shape. Without the correct maintenance, they will no longer fit within its frame. This can be detrimental to your security and thermal efficiency.
Engineered Doors
Engineered doors, including engineered oak doors, are incredibly sturdy also. By having layers of timber rubbing in different directions, an engineered core door is able to evenly distribute any stress applied to it. This makes an engineered doors for more stable than its solid wood counterpart. This modern construction technique also provides increased thermal insulation. Engineered doors are the perfect alternative for improving your home’s thermal efficiency.
Pros & cons of solid & engineered wood doors
Solid internal doors and external doors, particularly hardwoods like oak, will always have a premium allure to them. There’s an undeniable attraction to products with a solid hardwood construction, but they might not always be the best choice for your project.
It’s highly likely that an engineered set will out-perform your solid option for less money. As building regulations call for better thermal insulation, your final decision could end up being a no brainer. With engineered doors less likely to warp than solid doors, there ability to stay tight within their frames help retain your home’s warmth.
This isn’t to say that a solid oak door shouldn’t be considered over engineered core doors in some situations. If maintained properly, a solid oak door is likely to outlast engineered oak doors and should be considered for a long term investment.
Finding the right door
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