Ordering Timber Doors [Guide]

A Complete Guide to Ordering Timber Doors

As an experienced timber door manufacturer and joinery firm, we deal with many different types of clients, with different levels of knowledge. Here’s a guide to help those with less experience in ordering doors for commercial projects. There are several factors to consider, including style, type of wood, finish, glass options, location, cost, fire rating, and upkeep. Let’s delve into each of these aspects.

1. Style

The style of your door is the first thing people notice. It should match the architectural style of your building. For instance, a rustic style door might not fit well with a modern, minimalist building. Consider the following styles:

• Panel Doors: These are the most common type of doors and are versatile enough to fit most architectural styles. They consist of a frame made from solid wood rails and stiles, with wood panels in between.
• Flush Doors: These doors have a flat surface and offer a clean, modern look. They’re perfect for contemporary commercial spaces.
• French Doors: These doors are characterized by their glass panes that extend for most of their length, offering a touch of elegance and allowing more natural light into a room.

2. Type of Wood

The type of wood you choose will significantly impact the door’s durability, maintenance needs, and cost. Here are some popular choices:

• Oak: Oak is a very hard, heavy wood that’s resistant to moisture and decay. It’s a popular choice for exterior doors due to its durability and beautiful grain patterns.
• Pine: Pine is a softwood that’s lighter and less expensive than oak. It’s easy to work with and takes paint well, making it a good choice for interior doors.
• Mahogany: This is a premium hardwood that’s even more durable than oak. It has a rich, dark colour and straight grain that looks stunning when polished.

3. Finish

The finish of your door can protect it from damage and enhance its natural beauty. You have two main options:

• Paint: Paint can protect the wood from damage and allow you to match the door with your interior colour scheme. High-quality acrylic latex paint is the best choice for most doors.
• Clear or Stained Finish: If you want to highlight the wood’s natural grain, consider a clear finish or a stain. They penetrate the wood and protect it from within, offering a more natural look.

4. Glass Options

Incorporating glass into your door can add visual interest and allow more light into a room. However, it can also reduce privacy. Consider frosted or textured glass for a balance of light and privacy.

5. Location

The location of the door in your building can influence your choice. Exterior doors need to be more durable to withstand the elements, while interior doors can be more decorative. For high-traffic areas, consider a durable material like oak.

6. Cost

The cost of a door can vary widely depending on its material, size, style, and finish. While hardwood doors are more expensive, they’re also more durable and can add more value to your property.

7. Fire Rating

Commercial properties often require doors with a specific fire rating. This rating indicates how long the door can withstand a fire without failing. Check your local building codes to determine the required fire rating for your doors.

8. Upkeep

All doors require some upkeep to keep them looking their best. This might include cleaning, refinishing, and repairing any damage. Hardwood doors typically require less maintenance than softwood doors but may need to be refinished periodically.

9. Ironmongery

When it comes to doors, ironmongery or door furniture refers to the metal components used in the construction and decoration of the door. This includes hinges, handles, locks, bolts, latches, and decorative elements. Here are some factors to consider:

• Style and Finish: For a rustic look, you might choose wrought iron handles with a black or antique finish. For a modern look, consider sleek stainless steel bar handles with a polished or brushed finish.
• Functionality: If you need a lock, you might choose a mortice lock for external doors or a tubular latch for internal doors. If you need a door to close automatically, consider installing a hydraulic door closer.
• Durability: High-quality materials like solid brass or stainless steel are durable and resistant to corrosion. Look for features like fire-rated or anti-drill for added security.
• Installation: Some products, like screw-on door knobs, can be installed with a screwdriver and a bit of patience. Others, like mortice locks, may require professional installation due to the complexity of the installation process.
• Maintenance: Stainless steel handles can be cleaned with a soft cloth and a mild detergent, while brass handles might require a special brass cleaner to remove tarnish.

10. Sustainability

If sustainability is a requirement, make sure the manufacturer provides complete information on the timber being sourced. Every little detail can reduce the overall environmental impact.

In conclusion, choosing the perfect timber doors requires careful consideration of various factors. From the style and type of wood to the finish, glass options, location, cost, fire rating, upkeep, and ironmongery, each aspect plays an important role in determining the door’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.

We are always happy to discuss projects and advise you when creating the door schedule.