Find out how to choose the ideal internal door frame for your house in the UK. To guarantee a flawless fit and finish, investigate materials, sizes, styles, and installation advice.
Introduction
Choosing the appropriate internal door frame is essential for both practicality and aesthetics when building or remodelling a home in the UK. The door frame enhances the overall appearance and feel of your interior areas in addition to supporting the door. This guide will assist you in selecting the best interior door frame for your home by going over the important factors.
Understanding Internal Door Frames
What Is an Internal Door Frame?
The structure that encloses and supports an interior door is called an internal door frame, sometimes known as a door lining or casing. It guarantees that the door slides smoothly and fits the wall opening precisely.
Components of a Door Frame
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Head: The top horizontal part of the frame.
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Jambs: The vertical sides of the frame.
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Sill (optional): The bottom part, more common in external doors.
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Architrave: Decorative moulding that covers the joint between the frame and the wall.
Types of Internal Door Frames
Standard Door Frames
These are the most prevalent in homes in the UK and are made for standard single doors. To fit conventional door dimensions, they are available in a range of sizes.
Double Door Frames
These frames are perfect for French or double doors because they allow two doors to be placed side by side, widening the space.
Fire-Rated Door Frames
Fire-rated frames are crucial for increased safety, particularly in multi-story structures or spaces like kitchens. They are made to resist fire for a predetermined amount of time, usually FD30 (30 minutes) or FD60 (60 minutes).
Materials for Internal Door Frames
Softwood
Pine and other softwood frames are inexpensive and simple to deal with. You can paint or stain them to fit your interior design. They might not last as long as hardwood alternatives, though.
Hardwood
Hardwoods with a premium appearance and exceptional durability include mahogany and oak. They are appropriate for high-traffic locations since they are more resilient to dents and scratches.
MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard)
Engineered wood items like MDF frames have a smooth texture that makes them perfect for painting. Although they are less expensive and warp-resistant than solid wood alternatives, they can not be as sturdy.
Choosing the Right Size
Selecting the correct size ensures your door fits perfectly within the frame.
Standard UK Door Sizes
Common internal door sizes in the UK include:
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Height: 1981mm (6'6")
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Widths: 610mm (2'0"), 686mm (2'3"), 762mm (2'6"), 838mm (2'9")
Ensure your frame matches the door size, allowing for necessary clearances and adjustments.
Style Considerations
The style of your door frame should complement your interior design.
Traditional
Ideal for period homes, it has elaborate mouldings and is frequently combined with panelled doors.
Contemporary
Sleek and minimalistic, with clean lines, ideal for modern interiors.
Rustic
Utilises natural wood finishes and textures, perfect for country-style homes.
Installation Tips
Proper installation ensures longevity and functionality.
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Preparation: Make sure the opening in the wall is level and square.
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Fixing: Use the proper fasteners to secure the frame, making sure that the plumb and level alignment are correct.
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Sealing: Apply sealant around the frame to prevent drafts and enhance insulation.
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Finishing: Install architraves to cover gaps and add decorative appeal.
Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance prolongs the life of your door frame.
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Cleaning: Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime.
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Inspection: Check for signs of wear, such as cracks or warping, and address promptly.
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Repainting or Staining: Refresh the finish as needed to maintain appearance and protection.
Conclusion
Material, size, style, and installation requirements are all important factors to take into account when selecting an internal door frame. You may choose a frame that not only efficiently supports your door but also improves the overall appearance of your UK house by being aware of these considerations.
For more information about our interior or exterior doors or door accessories, give us a call at 01603 622261 and speak to a member of our expert team today, or Email us at sales@doorsuppliesonline.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.