The Ultimate Guide to Interior Doors and Prehung Interior Doors

Interior doors play a crucial role in defining the style, functionality, and flow of your home. Whether you're renovating, building a new house, or simply upgrading your living space, choosing the right interior doors is essential. Among the many options available,  interior doors and prehung interior doors have gained popularity for their convenience and ease of installation.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore:

1. What Are Interior Doors?

2. Types of Interior Doors

3. Materials Used in Interior Doors

4. Standard Interior Door Sizes

5. What Are Prehung Interior Doors?

6. Benefits of Prehung Interior Doors

7. How to Choose the Right Interior Door

8. Installation: Prehung vs. Slab Doors

9. Maintenance and Care for Interior Doors

10. Trends in Interior Door Design

Let’s dive in!

1. What Are Interior Doors?

Interior doors are doors installed inside a home to separate rooms, provide privacy, reduce noise, and enhance aesthetics. Unlike exterior doors, they don’t need to be weatherproof or as durable, but they should still be sturdy and visually appealing.

Key Functions of Interior Doors:

• Privacy – Bedrooms and bathrooms need doors for seclusion.

• Noise Reduction – Solid doors block sound between rooms.

• Aesthetic Appeal – Doors contribute to the home’s interior design.

• Space Division – They help define different living areas.

2. Types of Interior Doors

There are several types of interior doors, each serving different purposes:

A. Panel Doors

• Feature raised or recessed panels.

• Classic and versatile (common in traditional homes).

• Available in 2-panel to 6-panel designs.

B. Flush Doors

• Smooth, flat surfaces.

• Modern and minimalist.

• Often used in contemporary homes.

C. French Doors

• Feature glass panes for natural light.

• Ideal for dining rooms, patios, or closets.

• Enhance an open, airy feel.

D. Barn Doors

• Sliding doors mounted on tracks.

• Space-saving and rustic/chic.

• Popular in farmhouse-style homes.

E. Pocket Doors

• Slide into the wall cavity.

• Perfect for tight spaces.

• Common in bathrooms and laundry rooms.

F. Bifold Doors

• Fold in half when opened.

• Often used for closets and pantries.

3. Materials Used in Interior Doors

Interior doors come in various materials, each with pros and cons:

4. Standard Interior Door Sizes

Before purchasing, check standard sizes:

• Height: 80 inches (most common), 84" or 96" for taller ceilings.

• Width:

  • Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 28" – 32"

  • Living Areas: 36"

  • Closets/Pantries: 24" – 28"

• Thickness:

  • Standard: 1 ⅜ inches

  • Solid Core: 1 ¾ inches

Always measure your door frame before buying!

5. What Are Prehung Interior Doors?

A prehung interior door comes already mounted on a frame with hinges, making installation much easier than a slab door (which is just the door itself).

Components of a Prehung Door:

• Door slab (the actual door).

• Frame (jamb) – Includes side jambs and header.

• Hinges – Usually 3 hinges pre-attached.

• Door stop molding – Pre-installed to prevent over-swinging.

• Pre-cut strike plate recess – For the door latch.

6. Benefits of Prehung Interior Doors

✅ Faster & Easier Installation

• No need to mortise hinges or align the door perfectly.

• Ideal for DIYers and professionals alike.

✅ Perfect Alignment

• The frame is already squared, reducing gaps and misalignment.

✅ Includes All Necessary Hardware

• Hinges, frame, and sometimes even the door knob hole are pre-drilled.

✅ Better Insulation & Soundproofing

• Prehung doors fit snugly, reducing drafts and noise.

✅ Ideal for New Construction & Renovations

• Great when replacing old doors or installing new ones.

7. How to Choose the Right Interior Door

A. Consider the Room’s Function

• Bedrooms/Bathrooms: Solid or solid-core for privacy.

• Closets/Pantries: Sliding or bifold to save space.

• Living/Dining Areas: French or glass doors for openness.

B. Match Your Home’s Style

• Traditional: Panel doors (6-panel Shaker style).

• Modern: Flush or glass doors.

• Rustic/Farmhouse: Barn doors or wood-grained finishes.

C. Budget & Material

• Economical: Hollow-core MDF.

• Mid-Range: Solid-core or engineered wood.

• High-End: Solid hardwood or custom designs.

D. Prehung vs. Slab Doors

• Prehung: Best for full door replacements or new builds.

• Slab Doors: Cheaper but require more labor (hinge cutting, alignment).

8. Installation: Prehung vs. Slab Doors

Installing a Prehung Door:

1. Remove the old door and frame (if necessary).

2. Slide the prehung unit into the rough opening.

3. Shim and level the frame.

4. Secure with nails/screws.

5. Add trim/casing.

Installing a Slab Door:

1. Measure and cut hinge mortises.

2. Align and hang the door.

3. Install the strike plate and hardware.

4. Adjust for smooth operation.

👉 Prehung doors save time and effort!

9. Maintenance and Care for Interior Doors

• Dust regularly to prevent buildup.

• Clean with mild soap (avoid harsh chemicals).

• Check hinges/latches – Tighten screws if loose.

• Repaint/refinish every few years to maintain appearance.

10. Trends in Interior Door Design

A. Black Matte Finishes

• Modern and bold.

B. Frosted & Textured Glass

• Privacy with style.

C. Minimalist Flush Doors

• Sleek and contemporary.

D. Mixed Materials (Wood + Metal/Glass)

• Industrial-chic appeal.

E. Bold Colors & Stained Wood

• Statement-making doors.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right interior door—whether a classic panel door, a modern flush design, or a convenient prehung interior door—can transform your home’s look and functionality. Consider your needs, style, and budget before making a decision.

Prehung doors are an excellent choice for hassle-free installation, while slab doors offer flexibility for custom projects. Whatever you choose, proper maintenance will keep your doors looking great for years.

Upgrade your home’s interior with the perfect doors today! 🚪✨