Internal doors are more than just functional barriers between rooms—they are integral to a home's aesthetic, comfort, privacy, and energy efficiency. Whether you're renovating an old property or designing a new space, choosing the right internal doors can significantly influence the atmosphere and usability of each room. One of the most respected names in the UK for doors and joinery is Howdens. This article will explore everything you need to know about Howdens internal doors, from their types and materials to installation advice and design tips.
Why Choose Howdens for Internal Doors?
Trusted by Professionals
Howdens is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of fitted kitchens, joinery products, and related items. Their internal doors are particularly popular among builders and contractors due to the brand’s consistent quality, wide availability, and trade-only supply model. While Howdens sells directly to trade professionals, homeowners can still benefit by coordinating with builders or carpenters who can access their range.
Extensive Range and Styles
Whether your preference leans towards classic wood grain or modern minimalist designs, Howdens has an internal door to match. From moulded panel to solid oak, fire-rated to glazed options, the breadth of styles ensures there's something for every home.
High Quality at Competitive Prices
Howdens strikes a good balance between affordability and durability. Many doors are made using engineered cores for added strength and reduced warping over time. The brand's commitment to quality manufacturing, alongside regular quality checks, means you can expect a product that will last for years.
Types of Internal Doors Offered by Howdens
Panel Doors
Panel doors are among the most traditional and widely used interior doors. Howdens offers a variety of panel configurations, including 2-panel, 4-panel, and 6-panel styles. These doors work well in both modern and period homes, and are available in smooth or woodgrain finishes.
Benefits of Panel Doors:
- Timeless appearance
- Suitable for painting or staining
- Variety of finishes and styles
Flush Doors
Flush doors have a flat surface and are often chosen for their minimalist and contemporary look. These are usually made with a solid or hollow core and finished with veneer or laminate.
Where to Use Flush Doors:
- Modern homes
- Office environments
- Minimalist interiors
Glazed Internal Doors
Glazed doors incorporate glass panels, either partially or fully, to let natural light pass through while maintaining separation between rooms. Howdens offers a variety of glazing options, including clear, frosted, and decorative glass.
Popular Options:
- Genoa Glazed Door
- Thames Glazed Door
- Linear Oak Glazed Door
Fire Doors
Fire-rated internal doors are essential for certain areas, especially in multi-storey homes, loft conversions, or rental properties. Howdens offers FD30 rated fire doors, which provide 30 minutes of fire resistance, available in multiple styles without compromising on aesthetics.
Advantages:
- Enhances home safety
- Legally required in specific areas
- Available in stylish finishes
Folding and Sliding Doors
Howdens also supplies internal bifold and sliding doors that help maximize space. These are excellent for en-suite bathrooms, closets, or connecting living areas.
Benefits:
- Space-saving
- Modern look
- Great for small rooms
Materials Used in Howdens Internal Doors
Solid Wood
Howdens offers a limited selection of solid oak doors, ideal for those who want a premium finish and authentic wood grain.
Pros:
- Natural beauty
- High durability
- Excellent sound insulation
Engineered Core
Many of Howdens’ internal doors are made with an engineered timber core, often with veneer or moulded paneling. This makes them less prone to warping and more cost-effective than solid wood options.
Pros:
- Stability and strength
- Lower cost
- Lighter weight than solid wood
Moulded and Hollow Core
More affordable options often feature hollow-core or moulded designs, making them lightweight and easier to handle.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to install
- Suitable for upstairs or less-used rooms
Finishes and Customization Options
Pre-Finished vs. Unfinished
Howdens offers both pre-finished and unfinished doors. Pre-finished doors come ready to install, requiring no additional painting or staining, saving time and effort.
Pre-Finished Options:
- Oak veneer
- Walnut finish
- White gloss
Unfinished doors allow for custom finishes and staining, ideal if you're matching a unique interior style.
Paintable Surfaces
Many of the moulded panel doors come primed and ready to paint, allowing homeowners to match or contrast wall colors.
Matching Door Accessories
Howdens also provides a comprehensive range of internal door accessories, ensuring a cohesive look and functional setup.
Popular Accessories:
- Door handles and knobs in chrome, satin nickel, black, and brass
- Hinges, latches, and locks
- Architraves and skirting boards
- Door stops and closers
Design Tips for Choosing Internal Doors
Match Your Interior Theme
For traditional homes, panel doors with wood grain finishes work best. In contrast, flush or glazed doors are ideal for modern and contemporary settings.
Consider Natural Light
Using glazed internal doors between a hallway and living room can help distribute natural light throughout your home, making spaces feel larger and more open.
Balance Privacy and Openness
Use solid doors for bedrooms and bathrooms for complete privacy, while glazed or partially glazed doors can work well in shared living areas.
Think About Acoustics
Heavier doors, such as solid core or engineered timber doors, offer better sound insulation, which is ideal for home offices, bedrooms, or media rooms.
Installation and Sizing Guidance
Standard Sizes
Howdens doors are available in multiple standard sizes (usually in millimetres), such as:
- 1981 x 762
- 1981 x 838
- 2040 x 826
Custom trimming is possible,
