How to Choose the Right Internal Door for Your Home
Choosing new internal doors is one of the most impactful home improvements you can make. Whether you're renovating a period property or fitting out a new build, the right door transforms how your home looks and feels. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about selecting internal doors in 2026.
Types of Internal Doors
Panel Doors
The most popular choice for UK homes, panel doors feature raised or recessed panels within a solid frame. Available in 2-panel, 4-panel, and 6-panel designs, they suit both traditional and contemporary interiors. Our internal white doors collection features a wide range of panel door styles.
Flush Doors
Clean, flat surfaces make flush doors the go-to choice for modern interiors. They're typically more affordable and work brilliantly in minimalist spaces. A smooth finish takes paint beautifully if you want to add colour.
Glazed Doors
Perfect for rooms that need borrowed light, glazed doors feature glass panels in various configurations. Frosted glass offers privacy for bathrooms, while clear glass suits living areas and kitchens.
French Doors
Internal French doors create an elegant divide between rooms while allowing light to flow freely. They're particularly popular between living rooms and dining areas.
Choosing the Right Material
Oak Doors
Nothing matches the warmth and character of real oak doors. They're durable, age beautifully, and add genuine value to your property. Oak works in both traditional and contemporary settings — it's that versatile.
White Primed Doors
Pre-primed white doors save significant time on decoration. They arrive ready for a final coat of paint, giving you a professional finish with minimal effort. Browse our white door range for the full selection.
Pine Doors
Pine doors offer excellent value with a natural wood grain. They can be stained, varnished, or painted to match any décor scheme. Knotty pine adds rustic character, while clear pine gives a cleaner look.
Walnut Doors
For a premium, contemporary feel, walnut doors deliver rich dark tones that make a real statement. They pair beautifully with modern furniture and fittings.
Door Sizes: What You Need to Know
Standard UK internal door sizes are:
- 1981mm × 762mm (6'6" × 2'6") — Most common size
- 1981mm × 686mm (6'6" × 2'3") — Narrower openings
- 1981mm × 838mm (6'6" × 2'9") — Wider doorways
- 2040mm × 826mm — Metric standard
Always measure your existing door or frame before ordering. Measure height, width, and thickness at multiple points, and take the smallest measurement.
Fire Doors: When Do You Need Them?
UK Building Regulations require fire doors in specific locations:
- Between an integral garage and the house (minimum FD30)
- On every habitable room in a 3+ storey house
- In loft conversions (on the new room and along the escape route)
- In flats and HMOs
Fire doors are rated FD30 (30 minutes protection) or FD60 (60 minutes). Even where not legally required, upgrading to fire doors adds a valuable safety layer.
Hardware Considerations
Don't forget the finishing touches. The right door handles, hinges, and locks complete the look. Match your hardware finish throughout the house for a cohesive feel — brushed chrome, matt black, and antique brass are all popular choices in 2026.
Installation Tips
- Acclimatise your doors: Leave them in the room where they'll be fitted for at least 48 hours before installation
- Check the frame: Ensure your door frame is square and plumb before hanging
- Allow clearance: Leave 2-3mm gaps at the top and sides, and 8-10mm at the bottom for carpet
- Use three hinges: On heavy doors or fire doors, use three hinges for stability
Ready to Transform Your Home?
Browse our complete range of internal doors to find the perfect match for your home. With express shipping on all UK orders and expert advice available, we make choosing and buying doors simple.