Wood Entry Door Materials

Good Woods

Doors made with stable woods are less affected by humidity, so they're better at holding up to the elements. Here's how a few of the more common species compare.

Douglas Fir

Character: If quartersawn, this wood has a straight, consistent grain and is stable and check-resistant. Darkens naturally under a clear finish.

Price: About $300 to $375

White Oak

Character: Naturally stable and rot-resistant, it shows off its distinctive flecked, open-pored grain when quartersawn and stained.

Price: About $450 to $500

Knotty Alder

Character: Burl clusters and small knots make alder a good choice for rustic doors. It has a fairly straight grain and a natural cherrylike hue.

Price: About $300 to $375

African Mahogany

Character: A deep brown tropical hardwood that's very heavy and stable. Check whether the wood was sustainably harvested.

Price: About $650 to $800

Wood Entry Door Materials