When it comes to securing your commercial property, choosing the right type of door is critical. Two commonly confused terms in the industry are “hollow metal doors” and “steel doors.” While they sound similar, these door types have different constructions, purposes, and performance characteristics. Understanding the difference can help you make a smarter investment in your building’s security and functionality.

A hollow metal door is not actually “hollow” in the way many people think. It consists of a steel exterior with a reinforced interior core—typically filled with materials like steel reinforcements, honeycomb, polyurethane, or mineral cores for fire resistance. These doors are widely used in schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings due to their strength, durability, and customizability.

On the other hand, solid steel doors—though less common—refer to doors made entirely of solid steel or thick gauge metal, often used in high-security environments like safe rooms, industrial facilities, and certain government buildings. They are extremely heavy, expensive, and difficult to install, which makes them impractical for most commercial applications.

For the majority of businesses, hollow metal doors offer  the best balance between security, cost, and functionality. They are easier to install, comply with fire ratings, and work well with a variety of hardware like panic bars, closers, and access control systems. Plus, they can be insulated for temperature control and soundproofing, making them versatile across many industries.

At Dutch Door Hardware Ltd., we help businesses choose the right door solution for their building’s needs. Whether you’re upgrading from wood doors or starting fresh with a new build, our team ensures your door system meets code, protects your property, and lasts for decades. Contact us today to get a quote or ask about custom hardware configurations.