(784 products available)
The materials used on the kerala doors make them suitable to the climatic and cultural context of the region. Over time, they have incorporated traditional and modern elements in their design, reflecting their rich heritage. Below are some common types based on the structure of the doors:
Single Panel Doors
A single-panel door consists of a single solid piece of wood, glass, or other material. Therefore, it makes a simple but elegant structure. In Kerala, single-panel doors are frequently crafted from sturdy woods, such as teak or mahogany, known for their strength, durability, and beauty. Single-panel doors are often embellished with intricate carvings that reflect traditional kerala house designs. The carvings can depict floral patterns, mythological figures, or geometric shapes. In addition, these motifs provide a cultural touch to the door and showcase the craftsmanship of local artisans.
Flush Doors
Flush doors have a plain, smooth surface. Therefore, this feature makes them ideal for contemporary and minimalist interiors. In Kerala, bathroom doors are often made of waterproof materials, such as marine plywood or solid core construction, and is suitable for the region's high humidity. Moreover, the simple design of flush doors makes them versatile for many residential spaces.
Panel Doors
Panel doors consist of several raised or recessed panels framed by stiles and rails. The design adds depth and texture to the door structure. In Kerala, panel doors are usually made from hardwoods like teak or rosewood and are visually appealing. Also, their durability makes them a popular choice for bathroom cabinets in kerala. The panel design allows for creativity in both traditional and modern settings.
Louvered Doors
Louvered doors feature horizontal slats, which allow ventilation and light while maintaining privacy. Kerala's humid tropical climate makes louvered doors a practical choice for bathrooms and other areas where air circulation is important. The slats provide ventilation, making them a good option for kerala houses, which often require good air circulation due to the humidity. These doors are generally made of wood, and their design incorporates both functionality and adherence to Kerala’s cultural needs. One can find wooden louvered doors in many traditional homes in the region.
Carved Doors
In Kerala, carved doors are very common, showcasing intricate workmanship. Most of them are made from premium hardwoods, and carvings often depict traditional motifs, including gods, goddesses, animals, or floral designs. People use carved doors for important rooms, such as the main entrance of the house or in areas that require an element of luxury and culture. An example of carved doors is a carved shutter door, which is more detailed than a plain door.
Sliding Doors
Sliding doors in Kerala are becoming popular as space-saving solutions. Since the door slides on a track, no swinging space is necessary. In modern bathrooms, sliding louvered doors are sometimes used, which combine ventilation with a contemporary look. People use sliding doors for internal and external use, as they allow easy access while complementing modern design sensibilities.
An important factor to consider when choosing a bathroom door in kerala is the variety of materials and the advantages of each, as they all affect their durability, maintenance, and aesthetic value. Below are common materials used to make these doors:
Solid Wood
Wood is a traditional kerala door material, with choices like teak, mahogany, rosewood, and jakwood being popular. Teak has natural oils that make it highly resistant to moisture and decay and very suitable for Kerala's humid environment. The rich color and fine grain of wood give kerala doors a classic and elegant appearance that enhances the bathroom's overall aesthetic. However, wooden doors require regular oiling or polishing to maintain their water-resistant properties and prevent warping.
Marine Plywood
Kerala has widely used marine plywood due to its strength and resistance to moisture. People bond the waterproof-grade plywood used for these doors with the highest quality adhesives. This withstands the humid environment of the region. The surface of marine plywood doors can be painted or veneered with hardwoods for a premium appearance. While more affordable than solid wood, marine plywood doors are less durable than solid wood.
Composite Materials
Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and high-density fiberboard (HDF) are common composite materials that serve as door cores and are then veneered with real wood or laminated. People like using these materials because they are easy to work with, cost-effective, and offer a smooth surface for painting or veneering. MDF and HDF are less moisture-resistant than solid wood or plywood and are best suited for bathrooms in drier or air-conditioned climates.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass doors are becoming increasingly common because they are lightweight and easily molded into various designs. Additionally, fiberglass is non-porous and therefore resistant to water, making it an appropriate choice for bathroom doors in humid places. Moreover, their durability and low maintenance requirements make them practical. Unfortunately, their natural appearance cannot match the beauty of wood.
Metal
Metal doors, especially those made of stainless steel or aluminum, are increasingly popular in modern Kerala homes. Metal doors provide unrivaled durability, security, and minimal maintenance. Also, they are impervious to warping, cracking, or swelling. It is vital to note that proper treatment of metal doors, including anti-corrosion coatings, is essential for their longevity in this humid climate. Mostly, metal doors are used for external bathrooms or as a contemporary design element.
When choosing a bathroom door in kerala, the buyer should consider various factors that affect the door's performance, appearance, and longevity. Below are the common factors to consider:
Water Resistance
Water resistance is the most important quality to consider when choosing a bathroom door in Kerala, which has a humid climate. Therefore, doors made from solid wood, like teak or khasak, marine plywood, or fiberglass, provide excellent water resistance. In addition, the choice of lather kerala doors should be done carefully, over which, preferably, a waterproof finish is applied, such as varnish, paint, or laminate, to prevent moisture damage.
Privacy and Sound Insulation
Bathrooms are private spaces, so buyers should consider doors that provide adequate privacy and sound insulation. Solid wood and fiberglass doors are good options because they can muffle sound well while keeping the bathroom secluded from kerala house noise.
Durability and Maintenance
The durability of a bathroom door is related to how well it can withstand the harsh conditions of humidity, temperature variations, and daily use. Certain metals, solid woods, and fiberglass offer long-lasting durability. Furthermore, an ideal door should require less maintenance in terms of painting, polishing, or repairs.
Aesthetic and Style
The selected door should complement the existing interior design of the bathroom and the overall theme of the kerala house. Aesthetically, buyers can choose from traditional carved doors and contemporary flush or sliding doors. The materials also contribute to the door's appearance, so select one that fits the preferred style.
Cost and Budget
The price of a bathroom door depends greatly on the material, level of craftsmanship, and brand. A properly maintained lather kerala door can even last a lifetime while the costs will be recouped in the long run. Therefore, one should weigh the cost of various materials against their benefits and choose what suits their budget the most.
A1. The wooden doors, especially those made of teak and mahogany, are very durable, visually appealing, and resistant to humidity. Moreover, due to their sturdy build, wooden kerala doors feature a rich aesthetic, making them important elements in traditional and contemporary homes.
A3. The most preferred materials include solids like teak and mahogany, marine plywood, fiberglass, and sometimes metals like aluminum or stainless steel.
A3. Yes, the doors require regular maintenance, which includes applying oil or varnish to wooden doors to protect them from moisture. And for fiberglass or metal doors, periodic cleaning is often enough.
A4. Yes, marine plywood and fiberglass can also be considered eco-friendly options, as they are constructed from renewable resources.
A5. One can improve the door's durability by applying high-quality waterproof finishes, regularly maintaining the door, and selecting materials resistant to humidity.