If you are remodeling your home, you may want to replace your existing door. It is then that you will have to choose between traditional doors or flush doors made from plywood. Understanding the difference between the two will help you make an informed decision.
The basic difference between the two doors lie in the way they are constructed. Traditional doors are made from solid wood and comprise of several wooden panels that are cut and shaped based on the size and design. The doors are given a finishing with the help of wax, oil, or spirit polish to give them a luster and aesthetically-pleasing appearance.
On the other hand, flush doors are made from two sandwiched plywood panels which are tactfully positioned on a lightweight wooden frame. The space between the two plywood panels are filled with cardboard or hardwood and then finished with a veneer or laminate.
However, there are several other differences between traditional doors and plywood flush doors, as discussed below.
Maintenance of the Door
Traditional wood doors take more time to clean and maintain. That is because they have more grooves where dust gets accumulated. On the other hand, flush doors do not have grooves and intricate designs, and hence, dust does not settle on them. Also, the laminate or veneer finish means that wiping with a dry cloth will suffice to clean the door.
Thickness of the Door
The standard thickness of traditional and flush doors are 25mm, 30mm, and 35mm. For either options, the manufacturer can alter the thickness to suit the customer’s needs. So, when it comes to thickness, there is not much difference between both types of doors.
Finish of the Door
Finishing of a wooden door can be done using oil, paint, wax, or spirit polish. You can also finish it by putting on a laminate. Flush doors, which are usually made of plywood, can be finished with polish or veneer, or you can fix any laminate over the plywood.
Strength of the Door
Since traditional doors are made of solid wood, they are strong and have a long lifespan with proper care and maintenance. Flush doors are strong but not as much as wooden doors.
Cost of the Door
Traditional doors can work out to be quite expensive, depending on the kind of wood you use to make the door. Flush doors made from plywood are cost-effective and do not cost a bomb. You can get them in a range of colours.
Advantages of Traditional Wooden Doors
- They can be cut to any size and minor adjustments and changes to the door can be done at the site of installation
- There is a choice of designs
- You can opt for carved doors if you like
Advantages of Flush Doors
- They are cost-effective
- There is no worry of rotting, warping, and peeling
- The doors are resistant to scratches, stains, and termites & borers.
- They are easy to clean and maintain
Flush doors are getting quite popular as they are not expensive and homeowners can get them in a range of colours to suit the aesthetics and décor of their home. The fact that they are easy to maintain also works in their favour. The only drawback with flush doors is that you cannot get them with carvings and hence, homeowners, who are looking for ornate doors, may find them ordinary, though they are not.
The Bottom Line
Whether you opt for a traditional wooden door or a flush plywood door, make sure you choose your manufacturer with care. The quality of the wood or plywood along with craftsmanship plays a vital role in ensuring that the door meets your needs and suits your sense of aesthetics.
