- Slab Door: Just the door panel. You need to align and install it into an existing or new frame.
- Prehung Door: Comes already attached to a frame, complete with hinges and pre-cut holes for handles and locks.
If you're doing a renovation where the door frame is already in good condition, a slab door is often the more economical and customizable option. For new construction or full replacements, a prehung door simplifies installation.
Commonly used for bedrooms, bathrooms, closets, and office rooms. Interior slab doors come in various finishes and materials, including hollow core, solid wood, WPC (Wood Plastic Composite), and MDF.
Exterior versions are more robust and may include insulation, metal cladding, or weatherproof coatings. These are ideal for front doors, garage entries, or side entrances and require precise installation to maintain energy efficiency and security.
Common Materials for Slab Doors
Slab doors are available in a wide range of materials, each with different characteristics in terms of durability, cost, and aesthetics. Below is a comparison of the most common materials:
| Material | Advantages | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) | Waterproof, termite-resistant, eco-friendly, formaldehyde-free, low maintenance | Bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, high-humidity interiors |
| Solid Wood | Elegant, durable, strong sound insulation, natural grain | Luxury homes, offices, traditional interior designs |
| MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) | Affordable, smooth finish for paint, lightweight | Budget-friendly interiors, painted doors, apartments |
Choosing the right material depends on your location, style preferences, and maintenance expectations.
Advantages of Using Slab Doors
- Cost-Effective: Typically more affordable than prehung doors.
- Flexible Design: Customize hardware, frame, finish, and fitting.
- Renovation-Friendly: Perfect for replacing old doors without removing the frame.
- Modern Aesthetic: Clean lines and minimalist look favored in contemporary architecture.
How to Choose the Right Slab Door: A Quick Guide
- Measure Your Frame: Confirm door width, height, and thickness. Double-check if your frame is square.
- Pick the Right Material: Use WPC in wet areas, solid wood for upscale rooms, or MDF to save costs.
- Select Style & Finish: Flat panel, carved, or glass insert options are available depending on your interior style.
- Hardware Compatibility: Ensure that handles, locks, and hinges fit the slab thickness.
- Plan Installation: DIY is possible, but professional help is advised for proper hinge alignment and hardware drilling.
Need help choosing? Contact Zonle Doors for expert advice and custom slab door recommendations.
How to Install a Slab Door
- Measure the existing door frame precisely.
- Trim the door if needed using a circular saw.
- Mark hinge placement and mortise accordingly.
- Drill bore holes for the lockset and handle.
- Apply finish (paint or stain), then mount.
Professional installation is recommended for first-time users to ensure alignment and long-term durability.
FAQs: Slab Doors
1. Can I use a slab door in a prehung frame?
Yes, as long as the door dimensions and hinge positions match the frame.
2. Are slab doors more affordable?
Generally yes, but the installation costs and time can add up if not pre-drilled.
3. Do slab doors come with hardware holes?
No. Slab doors are blank and allow complete customization during installation.
Conclusion
What is a slab door? It's your most flexible and customizable door option—ideal for renovation projects and unique designs. Whether you're upgrading a single room or managing a large-scale interior build, slab doors offer both value and versatility. Explore Zonle Doors' premium slab door collection to find the right fit for your next project.