Whether you live in San Diego or Los Angeles, we’re sure you’ve picked up on California’s love for residential doors by now. The state is known for its stunning exterior and interior doors that not only function seamlessly, but also exude unparalleled aesthetic appeal.
Over the years, though, door hunting in California has become quite the task. With a wide range of door materials, types, and styles available, narrowing down the perfect pick can be challenging, to say the least.
If you’ve been struggling to choose the right door material for your California property, we’ve rounded up a guide to help you get started!
Wrought Iron
Also known as the crème de la crème of residential doors, wrought iron doors are a treat for homeowners. When it comes to safety, security, strength, durability, and versatility, iron doors take the cake.
While iron doors are more commonly used as entry doors, they can also be featured inside homes. They’re meticulously insulated to reduce air and thermal transfer. This is a big plus point for homeowners in California as they can significantly reduce energy expenditure.
High-quality wrought iron doors are manufactured using tempered dual pane operable glass with dual sealing. The cutting-edge polyurethane dual foam weather stripping plays a big role in keeping interior spaces cool during hot summer months and warm during frigid winter months.
The strong steel framework offers incredible safety and reduces the risk of a potential break-in. Wrought iron entry doors hold up well to humidity, wind, high pressure, and other environmental threats.
While their functionality has helped them become a go-to across California, their aesthetic appeal doesn’t fall short in the least. Iron front doors can be easily customized to fit a wide range of residential designs—including modern, minimalist, traditional, rustic, bohemian, and eclectic, among many others.
Their sleek and stunning finishing bolsters curb appeal and significantly increases the value of properties.
Wrought Iron Exterior Doors: The Verdict
If you’re looking for high-quality and visually compelling exterior doors, wrought iron should top your list of door materials.
Wrought Iron Interior Doors: The Verdict
While not as popular as wrought iron exterior doors, wrought iron interior doors hold their own. They’re a great option for homeowners on a budget.
Steel
Over the years, steel doors have immensely grown in popularity and demand across California. Presently, steel doors are the most common option for interior doors, and it’s easy to see why.
Insulated steel is known for its energy efficiency, safety, and longevity. As the most damage-proof doors on the market, steel doors are resistant to rust and cracking.
Most steel doors are engineered using 20–26-gauge steel, which is extremely durable and sturdy. Homeowners can maintain a comfortable interior temperature without worrying about security or safety.
Steel doors require minimal maintenance and function seamlessly in the long run. Some of the most popular steel doors across California include:
- Steel French doors
- Pocket steel doors
- Steel sliding doors
- Steel passage doors
- Steel barn doors
- Steel wine cellar doors
- Steel room dividers
Steel Exterior Doors: The Verdict
Steel front doors offer incredible durability and aesthetic appeal. If you’re looking for a long-lasting and weather-resistant entry door, steel should be a strong consideration.
Steel Interior Doors: The Verdict
A winner! Steel interior doors are the most popular choice in California.
Wood
While steel doors and iron doors have taken over the residential door market, wooden doors are still popular in California—albeit not as much. Wood can easily warp, peel, and sag over time, which reduces its longevity.
While solid-core doors are more resistant to damage, they’re also more expensive. In addition, they feature thick panels that can be off-putting for many residents.
If you’re looking for modern doors, wood probably shouldn’t be your first option. However, we suggest giving it a go if your home follows a rustic residential scheme.
It’s important to note that wooden doors require more maintenance. You may have to invest in door restoration services in the long run. However, they offer excellent insulation, security, and aesthetic appeal for homeowners with rustic spaces.
Weigh the pros and cons to determine whether wood is the right option for you. If you’re willing to invest in weekly maintenance and replace your doors in a few years, wood may be a viable option.
Wooden Exterior Doors: The Verdict
While they require more upkeep and don’t last as long as steel or iron doors, wooden exterior doors may be a good fit for rustic homes that require an antiquated door finishing. However, they’re not a practical option in the long run. We suggest opting for an iron entry door or steel front door instead.
Wooden Interior Doors: The Verdict
A big no. Wooden interior doorscan be extremely cumbersome and inconvenient for frequent regular use. Opt for functional steel or iron alternatives to reduce refinishing and restoration expenditure in the long run.
About the Author
The author is a renowned door designer at Pinky’s Iron Doors. With over 42 years of experience, the company specializes in designing and manufacturing a wide range of iron and steel doors. They also stock factory-style steel windows. Homeowners with a specific design in mind can opt for the company’s custom iron doors or custom steel doors.
