Should You Choose Finished or Unfinished Doors?

Many homeowners know that one way they can make their home stand out in the neighborhood is by upgrading their old front door to something that fits their style and boosts curb appeal. If you’re at that point, you’ll have to decide between a finished or unfinished door. Each option has pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your desires and budget. Let’s look at the pros and cons of finished versus unfinished doors and how to decide which one is best for you.

What is a Finished Door?

A finished door comes pre-painted, stained, or sealed by the manufacturer and is ready to install out of the box.

The pros of finished doors are:

Convenience & Time Savings

The biggest advantage of choosing a finished door is the convenience. Since the door is already painted or stained, you don’t need to spend extra time or money on additional finishing work. This is ideal for homeowners who want a quick, easy installation.

Consistent Finish Quality

Professionals usually coat finished doors in controlled settings, giving a perfect, even finish that can be difficult to duplicate at home. Many people like uniform finishes because they think it makes the house look better.

Durability

Most finished doors are treated with protective paint, stain, or varnish layers that make them more durable and resistant to the elements. This extra protection costs more upfront, but it can reduce the number of repairs and extend the door’s lifespan, making it a better investment for some.

Color Stains & Options

Because manufacturers have a large selection of colors and stain options, you’re likely to find a finished door that blends in with the outside design of your house. A completed door offers a range of options, whether you’re looking for a more natural wood grain or a bright, colorful statement.

Cons of a Finished Door

Limited Customization

One major drawback of pre-finished doors is the lack of personalization. You are limited to the manufacturer’s finishes and colors. If your design preferences change, repainting or refinishing the door can be more challenging compared to choosing an unfinished door.

They Cost More

Finished doors are typically pricier than unfinished doors because you’re paying for the materials and work needed to get the door ready for sale. This can be a hindrance if you’re on a tight budget.

What’s an Unfinished Door?

On the other hand, unfinished doors are exactly what they sound like — bare wood or another material that’s not been stained, painted, or sealed. These doors require you to do work to get the look you want.

While unfinished doors are more work for you, the results are whatever you want them to be.

Pros of an Unfinished Door

Fully Customizable

The biggest selling point of an unfinished door is that you have complete control over the finish. Whether you want to paint it a specific color or apply a custom stain that matches your home’s exterior, the sky’s the limit. The flexibility makes these doors popular for homeowners who want a unique look and don’t mind a DIY challenge.

Lower Cost

Unfinished doors cost less than finished doors. If you’re willing to do the work or hire someone, you can often save money on the initial purchase, making these ideal for budget-conscious people.

Ability to Match Existing Finishes

If you’re replacing the front door but want to maintain consistency with other woodwork or finishes in the home, an unfinished door is the way to go.

Cons of Unfinished Doors

Additional Labor & Time

The biggest downside of going with an unfinished door is the time and labor it takes to finish it. Whether you do it yourself or hire a pro, the process can be time-consuming and is an additional expense.

Risk of Inconsistent Finishing

If you’re doing the work yourself, you run the risk of the results not looking even or professional like if you’d gotten a factory-applied finish. Brush strokes, uneven coats, or improper sealing could detract from the door’s appearance.

Weather Vulnerability

Unfinished doors are more vulnerable to the elements. If you don’t seal or stain them correctly, they can absorb moisture, warp, or rot over time, particularly if they’re made from wood.

Compromised Manufacturer Warranty

Most manufacturers require that the homeowner paint or stain the door within a certain time frame. Failure to do so can void the manufacturer’s warranty.

 

The Glass Door Store is your local source for full replacement doors, sidelights, and more. We have showrooms in Tampa and Lakeland with doors from the most trusted brands in the industry and standard-tempered and hurricane-impact glass options. Contact us or stop in today!