The general construction of solid timber doors consists of a frame which is rebated to accept the panel material. Although this description simplifies the general construction, there are many other points to consider.

For example:The panel material which is natural timber will gain and lose moisture which in turn will cause movement across the width of the panel, therefore the panel must be able to float within the rebate otherwise splitting, twisting, bowing or distortion will occur in the form of "cupping".

Other factors are obviously the join, where the upright (vertical) components called stiles meet their horizontal (rails) mates. This junction can be made by several methods, the most popular being dowels or a through mortice and tenon join. Either method will achieve the same strength, as the glued surface area is the deciding factor.

Because the doors are a natural product, the timber will vary in colour and grain which is the reason, after all, why people purchase timber products, and accordingly care must be taken in the preparation of the product when painting or finishing. Refer to section on Finishing Methods.

When purchasing a solid timber door, care must be taken as to the type of timber used in manufacture, as some timbers are only suitable for interior use, because of lack of durability.

The durability factor encompasses the environment in which the door is placed and attention must be given to airconditioning, which has a drying effect due to dehumidifying, as well as slow combustion heaters which also have the same effect. Obviously the Entry door should be selected on the same principle, as humidity present in the atmosphere can have the effect of taking on moisture, causing the door to expand and jam during lengthy wet periods.

Of course if sealing of the product has been carried out according to paint manufacturers requirements, a lot of the mentioned areas can be controlled. However, for example, timbers such as North American Cedars have an excellent inherent stability factor and should be considered with the above in mind.

When purchasing a solid timber door, care must be taken as to the type of timber used in manufacture, as some timbers are only suitable for interior use, because of lack of durability.

Cedar Doors

All External and Internal doors are SOLID Western Red Cedar from the forest industry of Canada. No rainforest materials are used. Cedar requires no veneers as its inherent durability and beauty continues to shine in centuries old homes.

The wood is of exceptionally light weight - one of the lightest of all commercial species. The wood has a soft texture and a close, even grain. It is very easily worked and can be finished to a smooth, silky surface with little effort. It takes and holds stains, paints and enamels excellently, and also has superior gluing qualities.

Western Red Cedar contains a natural preservative oil which renders its heartwood highly resistant to decay, and gives it extreme durability. It does not deteriorate appreciably, even under severe climatic conditions.

The wood of the Western Red Cedar, in comparison to other timbers, has a very low coefficient of expansion so that it does not shrink, swell or warp excessively, even when subjected to changing degrees of temperature or moisture. It has prime insulation qualities and its pleasing aromatic odour is repellent to moths, insects and vermin ... qualities not usually found in hardwood species used in door construction.

Western Red Cedar has an usually long service life, an inestimable quality in any construction material; one of its most pronounced properties. Western Red Cedar is not exceeded in durability by any timber within its botanical category.

Painting ... not a problem. In fact, the qualities described above make Western Red Cedar a much desired timber to apply paint to, with very little movement and excellent adhesion to the surface.