Guide to Interior Doors for Your Home 2

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

01 Feb 2009 07:40 AM

How to choose interior doors should be given a lot more thought than it is in most people's homes. Interior door choices can solve all sorts of problems from a noisy laundry room to a bathroom that is too small. In my previous post, I started talking about some of the different choices in interior doors and listing the pros and cons of each. Now, I'll continue with the rest of the types. If you missed that earlier blog post, click here: Guide to Interior Doors for Your Home.

Pocket

Pocket doors are related to sliding doors in that they slide instead of open out or in, but that is where the similarity ends. pocket doors disappear into the wall, making them a good choice for small tight spaces or in rooms where you want an unobstructed view. They also use a wheel and track system. The cons to pocket doors are that they can be costly and difficult to install. Existing plumbing an electrical work can get in the way.

Bi-fold

Bi-fold doors consist of two panels that are hinged to bend in the middle and fold out. They come in many different varieties, from mirrored to those with glass inserts. Bi-fold doors are great for closets and pantries, where you want to hide items, but don't need to worry about blocking out sound. They work well anywhere where there isn't enough room for having a door swing out. The downside is that installation onto the hinge, pivot and tract system can be difficult. We had these on our coat closet door. They quickly broke off of the track and now need to be repaired.

Folding

Folding doors are also called accordion doors. They use a dual glide roller system and pleat into folds to open. Folding doors are best for odd sized areas. They can even be hung from a ceiling if there is no finished opening. Folding doors and inexpensive and easy to install. But these doors are probably the least insulating or sound blocking type, and many homeowners can't stand the look of the doors themselves.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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