Veneered Doors 1910-1940

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The early 20th century is generally referred to as the golden age of millwork. Vast forest lands were being utilized in this endeavor creating large industrial manufacturing and nationwide distribution. Most doors, windows, molding, flooring etc. were produced in large scale millwork facilities.

Starting about 1910, a new procedure was developed for building entry doors. This procedure involved a 3-ply softwood core in alternating directions covered with exterior 1/8" thick veneers. This created an extremely stable, relatively light weight door that could be mass produced. Variations on this design used small glued up blocks of wood to create the core instead of alternating layers. Occasionally thicker cladding was used to create the illusion of planks. Using small blocks and lesser quality wood in in the cores may have been an early attempt at recycling cut offs, increasing yields and reducing waste.

• Interior and exterior surfaces may be completely different. The interior veneer often matched the wood in the formal areas of the house while the exterior veneers used wood that held up against the elements.
• These doors were created as rectangle slabs of a standard specific size. They were then cut out to create an arched top, openings for glass or speakeasy doors.
• Most moderate sized homes in Southern California used this type of entry door
• The cost for an entry door in 1915 would be $10-$13.00, beveled or stained glass could add another $1-$2

Many years ago, we became aware that homeowners and contractors were discarding these doors and replacing the original mortise lock/brass handle sets because the exterior veneers were failing/fading or the locks were sticking. Due to this awareness, our business has been focusing on the restoration of historic veneered doors and the restoration of original handle sets.

We have developed time tested procedures to replace the surface veneers, typically with quarter sawn white oak, Philippine mahogany on the exterior; Douglas fir, yellow birch or gum wood on the interior veneers. These procedures save the history of the house and return the door to its original splendor. However, if your old door has seen too many years, or your original door was discarded years ago, we offer replacement doors that will match the original.

HISTORICAL DESIGNATION/MILLS ACT. We also work with homeowners and architects on achieving their goals. We can work from old photographs, blueprints or period correct designs and offer illustrated elevation drawings for submittal/approval.