Hollow Core vs Solid Core Internal Doors: Which Is Better?

When choosing new internal doors for your home, one of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go for hollow core or solid core doors. While the style, colour and finish matter, the construction of the door plays a huge role in durability, insulation, sound reduction and long-term performance.

At The Door Line, we supply a wide range of premium LPD internal doors, offering both hollow core and solid core options as part of our supply and fit service across Leeds and West Yorkshire. In this guide, we break down the key differences so you can decide which type is best for your home — and your budget.

What Is a Hollow Core Door?

A hollow core internal door is constructed with a lightweight internal honeycomb or lattice structure, covered with wood veneers or MDF panels. While not completely hollow, these doors are much lighter and more affordable than solid alternatives.

Key advantages of hollow core doors

• Cost-effective and budget-friendly

• Lightweight and easy for joiners to handle

• Suitable for less frequently used rooms

• Available in many popular styles including Shaker, panelled and flush internal doors

Limitations

• Less sound insulation

• Less durable over time

• Not suitable for high-traffic areas or rental properties

• Prone to dents and impacts

Hollow core doors are ideal for homeowners wanting an affordable upgrade without compromising on style.

What Is a Solid Core Door?

Solid core internal doors are made with a strong, dense core — usually particleboard, engineered timber or solid wood composite — creating a heavier, more premium door.

Key benefits of solid core doors

• Excellent soundproofing and noise reduction

• Better insulation and energy efficiency

• Highly durable and long-lasting

• More substantial, premium feel

• Suitable for bedrooms, living rooms and busy households

• Available in oak internal doors, white primed, pre-finished, glazed and fire-rated FD30 doors

Considerations

• Heavier and harder to install (best handled by professional joiners)

• More expensive than hollow core

• Requires stronger hinges and hardware

For homes in Leeds with older door frames or period features, The Door Line’s pre-order measurement service ensures your solid core doors are a perfect fit.

Hollow Core vs Solid Core: Side-by-Side Comparison

Which Door Type Is Better for You?

The answer depends on how you use each room and what matters most to you.

Choose hollow core internal doors if you want:

• An affordable option for small projects

• Lightweight doors for low-traffic rooms

• Quick installation

• Modern styles without the premium price

Choose solid core internal doors if you need:

• Superior sound reduction (perfect for bedrooms or home offices)

• Long-lasting durability for busy family homes

• A premium feel with better insulation

• Fire door options for additional safety

Many homeowners choose a mix of both, using solid core for high-traffic areas and hollow core for secondary spaces.

Are Fire Doors Hollow or Solid?

All FD30 and FD60 fire doors are solid core by law. They are specially designed to resist fire for 30 or 60 minutes and often include additional seals and reinforcements.

The Door Line supplies a range of LPD fire doors, professionally fitted by our experienced joiners to ensure full compliance and safety.

How The Door Line Helps You Choose the Right Door

As a Leeds-based supplier and installer of premium LPD internal doors, we offer:

✔ Professional supply & fit service

Our qualified joiners handle everything — from delivery to installation.

✔ Pre-order measurement service

We measure your existing frames to guarantee a precise fit.

✔ Expert advice on door construction and materials

We help you choose between hollow core, solid core, oak, white, glazed and laminate doors.

✔ High-quality doors manufactured locally by LPD Doors

Trusted across the UK for durability and design.

Whether you’re upgrading a single room or renovating your entire home, we’ll ensure you get the perfect internal doors.

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