What's the Difference Between Hollow Core and Solid Core Doors?

INTERIOR DOORS

Hollow Core Doors vs. Solid Core Doors

For decades, solid wood doors were the only choice for homes. Today, most interior doors in homes are molded doors. Interior molded doors are available with either a solid or hollow core. Both types are more affordable than solid wood doors. So, what’s the difference between the two? And, more importantly, which one is a better choice for your home: solid core or hollow core doors?

yoga room with blue walls and white three-panel solid core door with a blue yoga mat on the wood floor

What Are Solid Core Doors?

home office with white walls, blue, two-panel solid core door, wood floors and minimalist furniture

It’s impossible to tell just by looking at a door whether it has a solid or hollow core. Both construction types are available in a variety of attractive designs to complement any style of home.

Inside, Masonite solid core doors are constructed with 70 percent more sound-dampening material than our standard hollow doors. This offers many important benefits:

  • Sound Dampening: The thicker, denser material of solid core doors deadens sound more effectively, so you can focus on work or rest and relaxation.

  • Weight: Solid core doors feel more substantial than hollow core doors when you open or close them, and they have a solid sound when you knock on them.

  • Durability: The heavier weight of solid core doors also makes them more durable than hollow core doors. They can better withstand all of life’s bumps and bruises. They’re also more resistant to expansion and contraction than traditional wood doors, making them a better choice for hot and humid areas like the bathroom.

  • Value: Solid core doors are more affordable than solid wood doors. And, once all their advantages are considered, they can offer better value than hollow core doors.

What Are Hollow Core Doors?

Every Masonite hollow core door is built with a Flex Kor, a honeycomb-shaped structure that provides rigidity between the two door facings. Due to their construction, hollow core doors are lightweight and inexpensive. However, since the doors are hollow, they provide little sound-dampening and are typically less durable.

Do I Have to Use All Solid or Hollow Core Doors?

The beauty of having the option of different types of doors is that you can mix and match to fit your needs and budget. Where you need quiet and/or privacy, opt for a solid core door. They are the best choice for bedrooms, bathrooms, laundry rooms and offices. Additionally, any room or space that endures a lot of coming and going should also get a solid core door. For instance, if your family is constantly grabbing snacks from the kitchen pantry, consider a solid core door that can stand up to heavier use.

Hollow core doors are a good choice when sound, privacy or heavy usage isn’t an issue, such as closets.

When considering the unique benefits of these interior door materials, you may opt for solid core doors in your bedrooms and bathrooms, hollow core doors for your closets and a pair of beautiful wood French doors in your den.

Still not sure what type of interior door is best for each space throughout your home? Download our free home sound guide.

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About Masonite

 At Masonite, we create Doors That Do More™ to enhance the spaces where our customers live, work, heal and learn. Our beautiful, durable doors are environmentally responsible and are designed to provide more light, sound control and protection.

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