Can Exterior Doors Be Used As Interior Doors?

Exterior front doors are often quite charming, making it tempting to want to use them as interior doors, instead. After all, a door is a door, right? Serves the same purpose either way. Well, not exactly. The simple answer to the question is yes, exterior doors can be used as interior doors. However, there are multiple reasons why you might not want to. Also, it cannot be reversed: interior doors can't be used as exterior doors.

The project itself is a fairly simple DIY endeavor to accomplish, but keep in mind you will need to make some adjustments. They will likely involve adjustments to the door as well as to the doorframe. We're going to go over all the obstacles you may encounter to help make your decision easier. One thing is certain: using an exterior door as an interior door opens up a whole new world of intriguing possibilities to explore!

First, let's talk about the main differences between exterior and interior doors. Arguably the biggest difference is the materials. Exterior doors are typically made from a solid material such as wood, metal, fiberglass, or vinyl. Interior doors are often made of plywood or composite material, and are usually hollow. Exterior doors will also often have features like transom windows and peepholes, which are obsolete indoors. However, these types of features inside present an interesting and unique design challenge.

The other big difference lies in function. Exterior doors are designed with security and insulation in mind, while interior doors are designed for dividing spaces and offering personal privacy. Exterior doors are a weather barrier as well, and typically come with weather stripping. Another difference is the cost of a front door vs. an interior door. The cost of interior doors on average is from $150 to $500, while the range for a standard size single exterior door is from $200 to $1,800, and greatly varies by material.

There are other considerations if you're thinking of using an exterior door inside, such as the fact that they always open inwards. Additionally, they're nearly always going to have to be trimmed to fit the interior frame you want to use. This is due to the variable widths, often up to six inches in difference. Sometimes this will affect the symmetry of the door, so be sure you account for this when you're still in the planning stage.

If you're doing the adjustments yourself, you'll need a high-quality table saw or radial saw for precision cuts. Because of the way some exterior doors are constructed, particularly with slab doors, you run the risk of it falling apart if you make the wrong cut. You will also need different hardware and will need to make adjustments to the doorframe, as the hinge positioning will be different on the interior frame. Hanging an exterior door as an interior door is a challenge, but it is possible.