What Wood are Door Frames Made of

To best advise on what wood to use for a door frame, it’s important to consider whether the frame is for an interior or exterior door, as well as your budget and desired aesthetic. Here’s a breakdown of suitable wood types based on the sources:

For Exterior Door Frames:

• Mahogany is an excellent option for exterior door frames due to its durability, resistance to decay, and luxurious appearance. Honduran Mahogany is the most stable and durable, and will perform well for a long time, though it should not be used in condensing environments like pool or hot tub rooms. However, it is a premium material that can be expensive.
• White Oak is a durable option that is easily stained, though it can be more difficult to dry and design for, making it more costly than other options. It is also rot-resistant.
• Teak is a durable hardwood that is naturally resistant to moisture and insects, making it suitable for exterior door frames.
• Fir is another option for exterior frames, and while it may require more work to get a smooth finish for painting, it is often used for doors and jambs. Vertical grain fir is also a reasonably affordable option.
• Pressure-treated pine is a cost-effective option that resists rot, though it may need to dry and be primed for several months before painting.
• Redwood is valued for its color and resistance to insects and rot, but is also a more expensive option.

For Interior Door Frames:

• Pine is a common and affordable choice for interior door frames. It’s structurally sound, doesn’t shrink or swell too much, and takes paint and stain well. However, some may find it harder to paint due to the grain showing through the finish.
• Poplar is another affordable option that paints well and is often used for interior trim. However, it’s not very rot-resistant and is a softer wood.
• Maple is a strong hardwood that is also aesthetically pleasing. It has a neutral color, consistent appearance, and is versatile as it can be stained or finished to match different interior designs. Soft maple is also a good option, and is smooth.
• Fir is a suitable option for interior frames and jambs.
• Yellow Pine is a stable wood that is often used for door jambs.
• MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) can also be used, as it is a smooth material, though it may require longer screws for weight support.

Here’s a quick guide to wood choices for different door locations:

Other Considerations:

• Wood Properties: Consider the wood’s stability, resistance to rot and insects, and how well it takes paint or stain.
• Jamb Thickness: Traditional jambs are often 3/4 inch thick, though some may be thicker. Some jambs also come in 5/4 stock, which is about 1 1/4 inches thick. Some may choose to use full 1 inch thick material.
• Pre-primed: Some wood frame components come pre-primed, which gives good coverage and can extend the time before finish coating is needed.
• Alternatives to Wood:
  • PVC is a rot-resistant option that can be used for door frames.
  • Composite materials can offer rot resistance, and some are made with a wood composite bottom.
  • Fiberglass is a sturdy, low-maintenance option that doesn’t bend or warp easily, and offers good insulation.
  • Aluminum is durable, customizable, and energy-efficient.
• Sustainability: When selecting wood, consider the environmental impact of harvesting and prioritize responsibly sourced wood.
• Professional Advice: Professionals can help you select the best wood for your specific needs, taking into account durability, insulation, and environmental factors.

Ultimately, the best wood for your door frame depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you can tell me whether you’re looking for an interior or exterior door, or what your budget is, I may be able to further narrow down the options.