Steel or aluminium interior doors: which is better?
In our showroom, we are occasionally asked about the difference between steel and aluminium doors. Both materials are popular choices due to their modern appearance and practical properties. In this article, we compare steel and aluminium interior doors based on six criteria: design, durability, ease of maintenance, price, sound insulation, and ease of installation.
Criterion 1: The design
Steel doors naturally have a solid appearance and are often produced with slim profiles, such as our slender DRM-P10 profile. Thanks to the high strength of steel, the frames and door profiles can be kept very thin for an elegant, minimalist look. Aluminium interior doors offer a similar design effect but can never achieve the same level of thinness. If you want the slimmest profile and an authentic appearance, steel is the way to go. Steel offers a refinement that is hard to match.
Criterion 2: Durability
Both steel and aluminium are durable materials for doors. Steel doors are exceptionally strong and will last a lifetime with normal use. The material withstands intensive use and offers high resistance to scratches and dents. If properly treated against rust, for example with a powder coating or our Royor coating, steel is also highly suitable for humid environments. Aluminium does not rust and is likewise durable, but its softness makes it more prone to damage.
Criterion 3: Ease of maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, steel and aluminium interior doors are quite comparable. Both are relatively low-maintenance. It is advisable to avoid aggressive or abrasive cleaning products to prevent damaging the protective powder coating. Our article offers more maintenance tips for your steel doors.
Criterion 4: Price
Steel interior doors are generally more expensive than aluminium alternatives. They are custom-made and require more craftsmanship, which explains the investment. Aluminium doors are often standard products and therefore more affordable. These costs are, however, reflected in the quality. Steel offers greater added value in terms of appearance, strength, and longevity. Aluminium is a budget-friendly solution for those mainly focused on price, but for those who value finish, robustness, and long-term durability, steel proves to be worth the investment.
Criterion 5: Sound insulation
Due to their mass, steel doors offer a slight advantage in terms of sound insulation. Both materials, when properly installed and fitted with adequate seals, provide sufficient sound insulation for normal daily use. For example, rubber seals can be used in hinged doors. In sound-sensitive applications, steel can offer just that little bit of extra comfort.
Criterion 6: Ease of installation
Aluminium doors are lighter and easier to install, often even within existing frames. Steel doors are heavier, usually require custom work, and need a sturdier structure. This demands more preparation but also results in a structurally stronger solution. Once installed, a steel door feels solid and luxurious. That is why we always handle the installation ourselves. This ensures that you are 100% guaranteed a perfectly fitted door.
Which is better: steel or aluminium doors?
Both materials have their advantages, but in many cases, steel offers the strongest combination of aesthetics, security, and durability. If you value quality, appearance, and robustness in the long term, then steel is undoubtedly the better investment. Choose steel doors if you want to make a statement in your interior: slim lines, high strength, and a look that lasts for years. The appeal of a genuine steel door is not only visible but also tangible. And that makes all the difference. Aluminium may come close visually, but it remains a lighter, more vulnerable alternative. The strength and refinement of real steel are simply inimitable.
Would you like to experience this feeling for yourself? Visit our showroom, where you can see and feel the quality of genuine steel doors.
Visit us for an inspiration session
