Why Door Choices Matter
When choosing doors for a property, it’s about much more than just aesthetics. Whilst appearance is a primary consideration, attention also needs to be paid to other important factors including energy efficiency, soundproofing, durability and safety. The right door balances style, practicality and performance.
In this blog, we will talk you through the main types of doors and the major considerations.
Types of Doors by Function
Front Doors
The front door is the focal point on the facade of most properties. With the ability to give a house instant kerb appeal, it’s usually the first impression people will have of your home. Finding a door in keeping with the building’s heritage, for example with period features such as authentic panelling or moulding designs, is vital. Premium timber door options, such as those available from Timbawood, balance period charm with modern performance expectations including thermal efficiency, multipoint locks and toughened or laminated glazing.
Bifolding & Sliding Doors
For property owners looking to create an easy inside/outside flow in the Summer months, bifolding and sliding doors are a practical option that can really open up a space. Modern sliding doors have a sleek look, typically made from aluminium, whilst timber bifolding doors can offer a more heritage look. With timber bifolds, doors can be matched to the detailing on the rest of the doors and windows, including glazing bar designs.
You can view Timbawood’s timber bifolding and sliding doors here.
French Doors
French doors are an historic staple of many period homes across the UK. They are a fantastic option to retain an authentic or period look. Their adaptable designs can include side lights, top lights, glazing bars, lead and stained glass. They can be solid, part-glazed or fully-glazed, making them a versatile and customisable option for any home.
Take a look at Timbawood’s range of French doors.
Internal Doors
When it comes to types of doors, internal doors play a major role in determining the look and feel of a property. From simple flush designs to detailed panelled period styles, they help to define the space within a building and can be tailored to specific styles and designs in keeping with the property’s look.
Browse our internal doors here.
Fire Doors
In some instances, safety is the number one consideration. In multi-storey properties, or those with loft conversions, fire doors may be a legal obligation. In such cases, doors rated FD30 or FD60 will be required. This doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style though. At Timbawood, we custom-make timber fire doors to match the size and style of any period property.
Types of Doors by Material
Timber Doors
Timber doors remain the authentic choice for period properties. Not only are they durable, energy efficient and sustainable, they are customisable, allowing them to be fitted into almost any property to give that heritage feel and charm.
The latest developments in timber preserving technology in the last 15 years has meant that premium timbers such as Accoya are incredibly durable and stable, with a 50 year warranty above ground.
Timbawood has a wealth of experience in supplying timber doors for historic, period and modern properties. We can provide expert advice and tailored solutions to give your house the doors it deserves.
Aluminium Doors
For those wanting doors with a contemporary appearance, aluminium doors offer a durable, low-maintenance option. They are best suited to newer builds or modern extensions due to their slim profiles and sleek look. One important consideration of such products is the lower sustainability credentials – aluminium doors have a greater impact on the environment than doors made with sustainable timber.
uPVC & Composite Doors
uPVC and composite doors are a common choice for budget-conscious projects and are typically found in newer homes. They offer a lower upfront cost and require little maintenance over time. However, they tend to have a shorter lifespan, are harder to repair and are less sustainable, as well as being less aesthetically pleasing, making them a less suitable option for authentic period properties.
Types of Doors by Period Style
Georgian Doors
Georgian doors are defined by their symmetry and refined proportions, often featuring a classic panelled design with a fanlight or simple glazing above. Timber is the most suitable material for achieving an authentic Georgian appearance to complement the architecture.
Victorian Doors
Victorian doors typically feature a classic four-panel design, with either glazed or solid upper sections. Glazed panels can be opaque to allow for privacy, and double glazed with options for acoustic glass for optimum sound insulation as well as thermal efficiency. Again, timber is the ideal choice for an authentic and long-lasting finish.
Edwardian Doors
Edwardian doors are more ornate in style, typically with intricate panelling, moulding and glazing styles, and often featuring top lights and/or side lights to add additional size and grandeur. Stained or etched glass is common, adding colour and character. More ornate than Victorian styles, the architecture of the era favoured decorative details and designs.
Related blog: Period Front Door Panels and Mouldings
Choosing the Right Door for Your Property
Finding the right types of doors for your property, whether internal or external, is a serious consideration that benefits from careful thought and expert advice.
For period properties and those looking to create or maintain a heritage feel, timber doors are a versatile option, true to the authentic period design. With a range of customisable styles available, they can be tailored to suit any property.
If you would like any help in selecting the right doors for your home, the friendly team at Timbawood have extensive experience in supplying and fitting timber doors that can elevate your home and give it the look it deserves.
