When it comes to exterior doors, there’s certainly no shortage of materials and designs for modern homeowners to choose from. However, for those who want a more classic look or ornate designs, luxury solid wood doors remain at the forefront. That’s why here, the professionals from Master Doors have collected a list of some of the most popular solid wood door materials on the market today.

Comparing Common vs. Premium Wood Door Materials

When selecting wood for your new exterior doors, homeowners usually weigh the difference between common materials (e.g. pine and poplar) and premium woods such as mahogany or walnut. Common woods are affordable and easy to work with, but they may lack the durability and refined grain of higher-end hardwoods. On the other hand, luxury wood doors made from exotic or premium species bring unmatched longevity, aesthetic appeal, and added value to your home.

Here’s a quick comparison of common vs. premium wood door materials:

Wood Type	Category	Durability	Appearance	Cost Range
Pine / Poplar	Common	Moderate	Simple grain, easily painted	Low
Red Oak	Common/Premium	High	Warm tone, visible grain	Medium
Mahogany	Premium	Very High	Rich colour, luxury finish	High
Walnut	Premium	Very High	Dark, elegant, prized in luxury design	High
Teak	Premium	Extremely High	Golden tone, resistant to moisture/decay	Very High

According to Wood Database, exotic hardwoods like mahogany and teak are among the most expensive woods for doors, but their durability and natural beauty justify the investment.

Below are just a few of the most popular luxury wood doors available.

1. Poplar

One old-time favorite for solid wood doors is poplar, which is durable as well as aesthetically appealing. It boasts a sleek, smooth grain pattern, making it a perfect choice for more modern door styles. Its hue is yellowish and greenish, providing a finished look without the need for staining. However, since it lacks knots, it’s also the perfect solid wood to paint over for those who want more intricate designs.

2. Knotty Alder

This type of wood is a popular choice for luxury solid wood doors due to the beautiful knots in the wood, which provide a rustic feel and can be quite charming to the eye. It’s commonly referred to as “the best wood” when it comes to solid wood door manufacturing due to its durability and weather resistance. Additionally, it has a peachy and yellow hue that provides a classic look and is perfect for everything from homes and cottages to barn doors.

3. Red Oak

Another solid wood door favorite, red oak boasts a medium-brown appearance with subtle reddish hues and undertones, creating a focal piece out of your exterior solid wood door. It’s shock-resistant and holds up extremely well under adverse weather conditions and also has a very attractive wood grain. For doors that look more rugged and traditional, red oak is a great option. In addition to solid wood doors, red oak is often used to fashion furniture like tables, desks, cabinets, and more.

4. Cedar

Cedar is a popular choice when it comes to creating exterior wood doors because of its aromatic qualities, which are pleasant to humans but actually repel insects, making it easier to maintain your door. Additionally, it is weather-resistant and won’t shrink or warp when the seasons change.

5. Cherry

With an eye-catching, deep reddish-brown hue, cherry wood delivers a great aesthetic appeal in addition to a smooth texture and straight grain. Many choose to leave their exterior wood door as is, however, cherry wood can also be easily stained or coated to improve its longevity and deepen its color.

Design and Aesthetic Value of Expensive Wooden Doors

Expensive wooden doors are both functional and a statement of style. Premium woods like cherry, walnut, or mahogany have unique grain patterns and natural tones that give them a timeless and luxurious appeal. These woods also respond beautifully to stains and finishes, allowing homeowners to customize doors to match any architectural design.

Luxury wood doors add warmth and prestige, often becoming a focal point of the entryway. As Architectural Digest highlights, natural wood finishes remain one of the most sought-after design elements in high-end homes that represent craftsmanship and sophistication.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Luxury Wood Doors

It’s important to regularly maintain luxury wood doors to preserve their beauty and performance. Here are some practical tips:

Clean regularly: Wipe down doors with a soft cloth and mild soap solution to remove dirt and grime.
Check the finish: Inspect the door’s finish annually; reapply stain or sealant as needed to protect against UV rays and moisture.
Protect from water: Use weatherstripping and door sweeps to minimize water exposure, especially in Canadian climates.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Never use abrasive cleaners that could damage the wood or its protective coating.
Seasonal maintenance: Examine for cracks, warping, or fading and address issues promptly.

Following these steps, recommended by Fine Woodworking, ensures your door maintains its elegance and functionality for decades.

For luxury solid wood doors, contact us today!

For those in need of personalized, luxury solid wood doors, Master Doors can bring your vision to life. We also manufacture French doors, and wine cellar doors, and offer a variety of sizes and styles. All of our luxury solid wood doors are made in Canada, and for more than 10 years, we’ve been a leader in custom door fabrication.

5 Popular Wood Types for Luxury Solid Wood Doors