Dear Tim,
We are currently being relocated and what I am finding, even in higher end homes and those of good builders, is the use of 'Plastic' type interior doors. Some of the lesser priced homes we have looked at actually have 'wood' doors. (Not solid but better looking than the plastic with the pressed wood grain look).
Is there an advantage to the synthetic doors over wood? (more durable, won't swell and stick, cheaper)? Is it only a cost saving decision by the builder?
I really like the look of wood /6 or 5 panel raised panel. Am I out of line to ask the builder to replace the plastic doors with wood/paint quality doors in this new construction spec home?
Can you give me an idea of the cost difference between the plastic doors and wood doors/paint quality?
Thanks,
Dawn
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Dawn,
One advantage may be the stability of the synthetic doors. They will rarely warp or twist. I would absolutely think it is a cost savings measure on the builder in an attempt to either be competitive in the marketplace and/or make a higher profit.
If the house is a spec home, I would think you are out of line to ask for wood doors especially if the other doors are installed. But if the market is slow there, you may be able to bargain for new doors to make the deal happen.
If you were having the home built and had an opportunity to specify doors and pay an upcharge fee for the more expensive doors, then you should absolutely be able to get what you want.
I can't quote cost differences as there are too many variables.
Tim Carter
www.askthebuilder.com
W3ATB