Closet Door Styles Offer New Looks

Living in an older home can have advantages, but these typically don't include outdated mirrored sliding closet doors, or a closet door that's been kicked one too many times after running off its tracks. Replacing closet doors can instantly update a room's appearance and compliment its decor.

Old closet doors: What's the Problem?

If you like your closet doors, that's great, but old closet doors can be "high maintenance" and aggravating:

• Warps, dings, and other damage: Old closet doors may warp or be disfigured with years of wear and tear. Sliding closet doors may jam or come off their tracks. Painted closet doors can endure dings, chips, and scratches from years of use or abuse.
• Wooden doors may host termites: Wood is a beautiful addition to any room, but it can also suffer damage from years of termite infestation. If you've had problems with termites, wooden closet doors and frames may be a target.
• High maintenance: If you have sliding or folding closet doors styled after shutters, or covered with mirrors, they can be a pain to maintain. Installing new, flat textured doors can lend a sleek look and eliminate marathon dusting and cleaning efforts.

New Closet Doors: Consider Your Needs

Closet doors are available in different styles including traditional doors, sliding doors, bi-fold and solid sliding panels. Inserts and trim can include louvers (think shutters), mirrors, wood trim and fabric or glass inserts. When considering new closet doors, it's important to evaluate how the closet is used and who uses it. A hall storage closet for linens will likely require different doors than closets for kids' bedrooms or a storage closet for a craft and hobby room. If you're reorganizing closets, make new closet doors part of the project.