Interior doors are more than just functional elements in a home—they define spaces, enhance aesthetics, and contribute to energy efficiency. Whether you’re renovating, building a new home, or simply upgrading your interior design, choosing the right doors is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of interior doors, the advantages of prehung interior doors and interior door, the latest trends in 2025, and step-by-step installation tips.
Types of Interior Doors
Interior doors come in various styles, materials, and configurations, each suited for different rooms and design preferences. Here are the most popular types:
1. Flush Doors
Flush doors feature a smooth, flat surface without panels or moldings. They are budget-friendly, lightweight (often hollow-core), and versatile enough to fit any modern or minimalist decor. They can be painted to match any interior style and are commonly used in kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms 36.
2. Panel Doors
Panel doors consist of vertical or horizontal panels framed by stiles and rails. They offer a classic, decorative look and are available in various designs, from traditional to contemporary. Some panel doors include glass or mirrored inserts for added style and light flow 36.
3. French Doors
French doors are characterized by glass panes extending from top to bottom, allowing natural light to pass between rooms. They are ideal for living rooms, dining areas, and home offices, providing an elegant, open feel while maintaining separation 39.
4. Barn Doors
Barn doors slide on a track mounted above the doorway, saving space and adding a rustic or industrial touch. They are popular in modern farmhouse designs and work well in bedrooms, bathrooms, and closets 37.
5. Pocket Doors
Pocket doors slide into a wall cavity, making them perfect for tight spaces like bathrooms, pantries, and laundry rooms. They maximize floor space but require careful installation to avoid interference with wall structures 39.
6. Bifold/Accordion Doors
These doors fold in sections, making them ideal for closets and room dividers. They are space-efficient and come in materials like wood, glass, and composite 36.
7. Louvered Doors
Featuring slatted designs, louvered doors promote airflow and are commonly used in closets, bathrooms, and laundry rooms 3.
8. Jib Doors (Hidden Doors)
Jib doors blend seamlessly with walls, often lacking visible handles or hinges. They are perfect for creating secret rooms or maintaining a clean, minimalist aesthetic 3.
9. Bookcase & Chalkboard Doors
Bookcase doors double as functional shelves, while chalkboard doors offer a creative surface for notes and drawings. Both add personality and utility to home offices, kids’ rooms, or kitchens 3.
Prehung Interior Doors: Benefits and Installation
What Is a Prehung Door?
A prehung door is a complete unit that includes a door slab, frame (jamb), hinges, and sometimes a pre-cut latch hole. Unlike slab doors (which require separate framing), prehung doors are ready for installation, making them a favorite for DIYers and new construction projects 58.
Advantages of Prehung Doors
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Easier Installation: Since the frame and hinges are pre-attached, installation is quicker and requires less carpentry skill 5.
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Better Alignment: The factory-assembled frame ensures proper door swing and reduces misalignment issues 8.
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Weatherproofing (for Exterior Use): Many prehung exterior doors come with built-in weatherstripping 5.
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Time & Labor Savings: Ideal for large-scale projects where multiple doors need installation 5.
Disadvantages of Prehung Doors
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Limited Customization: Standard sizes may not fit non-standard rough openings 5.
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Higher Upfront Cost: More expensive than slab doors, though labor savings may offset this 5.
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Transport Challenges: Bulkier and heavier than slab doors 5.
How to Install a Prehung Interior Door 28
Tools Needed:
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Prehung door unit
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Shims
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Screws (1 ⅝”)
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Level
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Drill
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Tape measure
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Circular saw (if trimming is needed)
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Nail gun (for trim)
Step-by-Step Installation:
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Prepare the Rough Opening: Ensure the opening is 2” wider and taller than the door slab.
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Assemble the Frame (if disassembled): Connect the jambs using provided connectors and dowels.
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Position the Door: Place the unit in the opening, ensuring it’s level and plumb.
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Secure with Shims: Insert shims at hinge and latch points to stabilize the frame.
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Fasten the Frame: Screw the jamb into the wall studs, checking alignment frequently.
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Install Trim & Hardware: Attach casings and add doorknobs, strike plates, and locks.
For a visual guide, refer to Door Design Lab’s tutorial 2.
2025 Interior Door Trends
1. Minimalist Designs
Sleek, frameless doors with thin profiles and matte finishes dominate modern interiors 7.
2. Bold Colors & Statement Doors
Deep hues like navy, emerald green, and matte black are trending, adding drama to neutral spaces 7.
3. Sustainable Materials
Reclaimed wood, bamboo, and eco-friendly MDF are popular for environmentally conscious homeowners 7.
4. Smart Doors
Keyless entry, fingerprint scanners, and automated operation are becoming standard in high-tech homes 7.
5. Mixed Materials
Doors combining wood, glass, and metal offer a contemporary, high-end look 7.
Conclusion
Choosing the right interior door involves balancing aesthetics, functionality, and installation ease. Prehung doors simplify the process for DIYers, while slab doors offer customization for unique spaces. With trends leaning toward sustainability, smart technology, and bold designs, 2025 is an exciting time to upgrade your home’s doors.
For more inspiration, explore Interior Doors UK’s blog or check out Oppein’s door catalog for style ideas 13.
