What are the types of interior doors?
Interior doors are fundamental elements to define the style and functionality of the interior spaces of a home. In addition to separating rooms, interior doors contribute to the overall aesthetic and can add a touch of personality to any room.
The choice of door type is essential, as there are several options that adapt to various types of needs and interior design:
– hinged doors: these are among the most common and traditional solutions. They consist of a single sash that opens in one direction, with the help of a hinge attached to the frame. Hinged doors are ideal for rooms where space is not an issue, as the leaf requires a suitable opening area.
– Internal sliding doors: sliding doors or internal sliding doors are functional to optimize space. They run along a track and hide inside the wall, or slide outside. There are models with glass inserts, which add brightness.
– doors with glass and glass doors: doors with glass inserts, often called glass doors, are popular for increasing the brightness of rooms. Available in transparent, opaque or satin glass, they are ideal for living rooms and kitchens.
– Modern vs. traditional doors: Modern doors have clean lines and innovative materials such as laminates, while traditional solid wood doors feature classic finishes and details.
– materials: among the materials we find wooden, glass and laminate doors. Wood offers a warm look, while laminates and synthetic finishes are budget-friendly options.
How to take measurements for interior doors
Taking the correct measurements for interior doors is essential to ensure that the chosen door fits perfectly into the existing opening and the subframe. Here is a step-by-step guide to getting accurate measurements, both for a standard door and a custom-made door:
Measure the space light (or wall light)
The shaft light is the free space of the wall where the door will be installed. Here’s how to measure it:
– Width: Measures the internal distance between the two vertical sides of the wall (at half height). It is also useful to check the measurement at the top and bottom to make sure that the walls are parallel.
– Height: Measure from the finished floor (or final walking surface) to the top edge of the room. This height must include any floors or walls that have already been installed.
– Wall depth: Measures the thickness of the wall, as this size determines the type of casing needed.
Tip: If the compartment is not perfectly straight, always take the minimum dimensions (the smallest measurement detected) as a reference to avoid installation problems.
Measuring for sliding doors
For sliding doors, the process is slightly different, especially if you use a casket system:
– For pocket doors (casket): Measure the width of the compartment as for a hinged door, but also check the side space available to accommodate the box of the casket system.
– For external wall sliding doors: Measure the free space on the wall next to the compartment (at least equal to the width of the door) to ensure that the leaf slides completely.
Practical example: For an 80 cm sliding door, the concealed counterframe requires a total width of approx. 165 cm.
Standard interior door sizes
Interior doors generally follow standard dimensions, but it is always best to check them. Here are some common measures:
– Width: 60 cm, 70 cm, 80 cm, 90 cm.
– Height: The standard measurement is 210 cm.
– Wall thickness: Generally 10 to 12 cm, but can vary depending on the type of wall (brick or plasterboard wall).
Useful tools for measurement
To get accurate measurements, it’s crucial to use the right tools:
– Tape measure: To measure width, height and depth.
– Bubble level: To check that the walls and floor are aligned correctly.
– Pen and paper: To write down all measurements, including any irregularities.
Important: Remember that the door must be chosen according to the already finished compartment, so consider any already laid coverings or floors.
Practical advice for non-standard measurements
If the compartment or subframe does not correspond to the standard dimensions:
– Opt for a custom-made door: In this case, a professional can help you create a door that is perfectly tailored to your needs.
– Check with a carpenter or expert that the compartment is suitable for installation and ask for an estimate of the costs of any modifications.
Choice of handles and locks
The choice of handles and locks for interior doors is essential for practicality and aesthetics. Handles not only perform a practical function but also represent a design detail that enhances the style of interior doors and furniture. Interior door handles are available in various styles and materials, from metal to stainless steel, and choosing a handle that harmonizes with the door and the rest of the furniture is essential to ensure a pleasant and functional result.
Interior door locks vary in the level of security and privacy required: simple locks, such as key locks, are ideal for bedrooms and offices, while for rooms such as bathrooms, manual locks that can be opened from the outside in case of an emergency are common. Finally, lever handles are ideal for hinged doors, while sliding doors use recessed handles to ensure smooth opening. If you want to get an idea of the most modern and contemporary models, you can also visit the Colombo Design website.
Installation and assembly of interior doors
The assembly of an interior door requires precision and proper planning to ensure a stable and functional result. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to the basic installation steps and some practical cost and time considerations.
When to install interior doors
The ideal time to install interior doors is generally after the renovation or construction work on the house has been completed, in particular:
– After laying the floor: This ensures that the door fits perfectly into the height of the final floor.
– After painting and finishing: Subsequent installation prevents the doors from being damaged during processing.
Assembly steps
Here are the main steps to install an interior door, whether it is hinged or sliding:
1. Preparation of the compartment or subframe
– Make sure that the subframe (if present) is perfectly level and stable.
– For sliding doors, check that the box of the casket system is correctly installed inside the wall.
2. Mounting the door frame
– Place the door frame inside the compartment, making sure it is centered and level.
– Use wooden wedges to keep the frame firm during installation.
3. Attaching the Frame
– Fix the frame to the subframe or directly to the wall with screws, being careful not to deform it.
– Check with a level that the frame is perfectly straight both in height and width.
4. Door Installation
– Hook the door to the hinges (for swing doors) or the track (for sliding doors).
– Check that the door opens and closes smoothly, adjusting the hinges or track if necessary.
5. Attaching the architraves
– Place the architraves (decorative frames that cover the joint between the frame and the wall) and secure them with glue or nails.
6. Final Adjustments
– Check that the lock is working properly and that there are no gaps or misalignments.
– Add gaskets to improve sound insulation and reduce drafts.
Installation costs
The cost of fitting an interior door varies depending on the type of door and the professional you choose. Here is an indicative estimate:
– Installation of a standard hinged door: Between 100 and 150 euros per door.
– Installation of a sliding door: Between 150 and 300 euros, depending on the complexity of the casket system or the external track.
Note: If the subframe or compartment is not perfectly level, there may be additional costs for accommodation.
Assembly times
The time required to install an interior door varies according to the type:
– Swing doors: Approximately 1-2 hours.
– Sliding doors: 2-4 hours, especially if you need to install a retractable box.
Interior door styles and designs
Choosing the style and design of interior doors can transform the appearance of a room, influencing the perception of space and the aesthetic consistency of the home. White interior doors are a versatile and popular choice, as their neutrality allows them to be easily combined with floors and walls of any color.
Interior doors with glass are perfect for those who want to add brightness to the rooms, allowing light to pass from one room to another, with transparent, opaque or satin glass. Wooden doors add warmth and personality to rooms and are ideal for rustic, classic or country style homes.
For a harmonious result, it is essential to consider the relationship between doors, floor and furnishings: for example, in a modern environment, interior doors with matte finishes or sober colors complement a minimalist style.
Purchase options and interior door brands
If you are looking for high-quality interior doors, Italian brands offer a unique combination of design, functionality and innovation.
FerreroLegno, for example, is a symbol of tradition and craftsmanship quality. Its interior doors stand out for their wide range of materials and finishes, ranging from solid wood to modern laminates, without forgetting the versions with glass inserts, ideal for elegant and contemporary environments.
Bertolotto, on the other hand, is the perfect brand for those looking for interior doors that combine luxury and eco-sustainability. From classic lines with decorative inlays to essential and modern models, Bertolotto offers doors that not only furnish, but enrich spaces with eco-friendly materials and a design that is always with attention to the smallest details.
For those who want bright and refined environments, HenryGlass is the perfect choice. Specialising in glass doors, the company offers solutions that transform light into the protagonist, thanks to transparent, satin or decorated finishes. Their doors, whether sliding or hinged, are ideal for those who want to add a touch of lightness and elegance to the interior.
Rimadesio stands out for its minimalist and technological approach. The doors of this brand combine the highest quality materials and innovative systems, such as magnetic locks and invisible rails. Perfect for modern and sophisticated environments, Rimadesio doors adapt to spaces with a simplicity that conquers.
If you prefer a more artistic design, Foa is the right solution. This brand specializes in interior doors with personalized details and craftsmanship that make them unique. Between wood, glass and metals combined with mastery, Foa doors represent a piece of furniture that does not go unnoticed.
Agoprofil offers a wide range of interior doors with a modern and versatile character. The brand is known for its high level of customization and attention to detail, with doors that fit perfectly into every style, from classic warm and cozy interiors to industrial chic spaces.
If you want to get an idea and view these and other brands, you can click and view this retailer of interior doors in Milan.
Maintenance and practical advice
Proper maintenance of interior doors is essential to ensure their durability over time. Regular cleaning is essential: for wooden doors , it is recommended to use specific detergents, while for laminated doors , water and mild soap are sufficient.
In case of squeaking, apply a lubricant to the hinges; If the door does not close properly, the frame or hinges may need to be adjusted. To improve thermal insulation and reduce noise, use draught arrestors or specific gaskets. To preserve doors from scratches or dents, especially in homes with children or pets, use door stoppers and removable guards.
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