Wood doors are an important character-defining feature of historic homes and buildings. Beyond providing security and access, they create visual rhythm and personality. When properly maintained, historic wood doors tell a story that play a critical role in a historic building’s character. They represent far more than entry and exit points; they reflect craftsmanship, design choices, and architectural history.
Let’s explore why historic wood doors are so significant, how to maintain or restore them, and how to ensure they remain an essential part of your home’s charm.
The Art and Craft of Wood Doors
Wood doors come in many shapes, sizes, and styles, often reflecting the period and design of the building they grace. They can feature intricate paneling, moldings, carvings, or lites (panes of glass), as well as other distinguishing features, such as hardware, locks, latches, handles, closers, and knockers.
- Single Doors: These doors have one wood panel or “leaf” that swings on hinges on the side of the door frame.
- Double Doors: These feature two leaves that open from the center. Double doors with glass lites are often referred to as French doors.
- Door Frames and Accents: Frames may include decorative elements like transom windows, fan lites, or sidelites, which can vary in the number of glass panes and contribute to the door’s overall character.
The shape of the door — whether rectangular or arched — further enhances its architectural appeal. Together, these details create a lasting impression that defines the entry to a historic home.
The Importance of Proper Restoration
The difference between a well-restored historic door and an incompatible modern replacement is significant. A properly preserved wood door complements the overall appearance and historic integrity of a building. Whenever possible, prioritize repairing or restoring existing doors, especially those on the front façade of your home.
- Original Hardware: Hinges and locks can often be repaired or adjusted to function like new. It’s important to note that hardware on traditional doors often includes locksets that are not compatible with standard or modern locks. Instead, these doors typically require mortised traditional locks to maintain both functionality and historical accuracy. If replacement hardware is necessary, opt for period-appropriate options to preserve the door’s historical character.
- Glass Elements: Sidelights or lites within the door itself play a key role in the overall design. Historically, the glass in wood doors was almost always clear. Replacing it with frosted or textured glass can diminish the authenticity and historic character of the door. If privacy is a concern, removable window films can be an excellent solution that preserves the original glass while providing modern functionality.
Finishing Touches
The finish on a wood door doesn’t just enhance its beauty; it also protects it from weathering and rot. Depending on the door’s history and condition, there are a few options when it comes to finishes:
- Sanding and sealing: If your door has simply lost its finish, it may be possible to sand and re-seal it to showcase the natural beauty of the wood. However, in New Orleans, this approach is rare due to the wet and humid climate, which isn’t ideal for this type of finish. Stained and sealed doors require significantly more maintenance over time. Additionally, the Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC) typically does not recommend this treatment unless it is part of the door’s original finish.
- Repainting: Appropriate for doors with a history of paint finishes or those in need of major repair. Sand carefully by hand, avoiding abrasive cleaning techniques or power tools, as these can harm the intricate details of historic woodwork, especially delicate swood molding and paneling. Remove only as much paint as necessary to prepare for a new coat.
What If the Door Can’t Be Saved?
If a historic door is beyond repair or missing entirely, finding a replacement that matches the period and style of the home is crucial. Consider the following:
- Architectural salvage yards: Local shops offer a variety of period-appropriate doors and hardware, sometimes still hung in their original frames.
- Custom fabrication: Skilled woodworking artisans who specialize in historic windows and doors can craft replicas to match the original or create something comparable in terms of dimensions, proportions, and profiles. Surprisingly, custom fabrication of new doors is often a more affordable option than purchasing a modern factory-made door. Contact a local New Orleans millshop to explore your options — they are experts in addressing the unique needs of historic homes.
Keep in mind that if your home is located within a historic district in New Orleans, the Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC) or Vieux Carré Commission (VCC) may require that replacements meet specific guidelines to preserve the historic character of the area.
Why It Matters
A properly restored or maintained wood door contributes to the historic integrity of your home, enhances its property value, curb appeal, and ensures its story continues for generations to come. In New Orleans, where history lives in every corner, preserving these details is a meaningful way to honor the city’s architectural heritage.
Helpful Resources for Preservation
- Vieux Carré Commission Guidelines for Windows & Doors (City of New Orleans)
- HDLC Guidelines for Guidelines for Exterior Woodwork (City of New Orleans)
- Preservation Brief 10: Exterior Paint Problems on Historic Woodwork (National Park Service)
- Preservation Brief 6: Dangers of Abrasive Cleaning to Historic Buildings (National Park Service)
Image credits: Windows and doors in New Orleans, photographs by Scott Heath, used with permission.