Masonite 6 Panel Molded Door (Smooth, 80")

Worth it for contractors who need reliable sound control between rooms. The solid core option delivers 70% better sound dampening than hollow core — that’s the difference between hearing every conversation and having actual privacy. The smooth primed finish takes paint cleanly without showing grain texture, and the traditional 6-panel design fits most residential styles.

Skip it if you’re just closing off a utility closet or pantry. Hollow core at 25 pounds costs less and installs easier for low-traffic areas where sound doesn’t matter.

Sound Performance and Core Options

Solid core models provide 70% better sound reduction compared to hollow core — measurable performance that matters for bedrooms, home offices, and bathrooms. Weight tells the story: hollow core runs about 25 pounds for a 26x80 slab, while solid core ranges 40-70+ pounds depending on width. That extra mass blocks sound transmission.

The solid versus hollow core choice drives both cost and performance. Hollow core makes sense for closets, pantries, and basement storage. Solid core earns its premium anywhere noise matters — master bedrooms next to living areas, home offices, media rooms. In multi-generational Montana homes where three generations might share one roof, that sound dampening becomes essential.

Dimensions and Installation Specs

Specification	Value
Height	80 inches (standard)
Width Options	18”, 24”, 26”, 28”, 30”, 32”, 36”
Thickness	1-3/8” (1.375 inches)
Maximum Trim Allowance	1/4” height (bottom rail), 1/4” width (each side)
Weight (Hollow Core)	~25 lbs (26x80)
Weight (Solid Core)	40-70+ lbs (varies by width)

Exceeding the 1/4” trimming allowance voids the warranty — critical information for non-standard openings. The seven width options cover most residential applications, but that trim restriction means accurate rough opening measurements matter more than with doors allowing deeper cuts.

Slab doors require routing for hinges and drilling for lockset bore. Hardware not included. Pre-hung units need 2x4 framing with rough openings typically 2” wider and 2.5” taller than the door slab.

Materials and Durability

Molded wood fiber composite construction means these doors won’t split like solid wood or telegraph damage like hollow-core luan. The molded panel engineering resists warping, shrinking, and cracking — real benefits in Montana’s extreme temperature swings and varying humidity levels.

The smooth surface allows for a clean, high-quality paint finish without wood grain texture. That primed coating comes on all six sides, not just the faces. Full priming matters more than most contractors realize — unsealed edges absorb moisture and cause swelling problems down the road.

Masonite products typically use SFI or PEFC certified wood fibers, and many molded doors carry GREENGUARD Gold certification for low VOC emissions. Some retail versions may not include FSC certification by default.

Warranty Coverage

Hollow core slabs carry a 5-year limited warranty, while solid core extends to 7 years. The finish warranty covers 1 year for Masonite-applied finishes. Remember that trimming beyond 1/4” from any side voids the warranty completely — measure twice before cutting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the actual sound difference between hollow and solid core? Solid core provides 70% better sound dampening than hollow core. For a bedroom next to a TV room or a home office near kids’ play areas, that difference transforms the space from constantly interrupted to actually private.

Can these doors be trimmed to fit? Yes, but only 1/4” maximum from the bottom rail for height and 1/4” from each side for width. Exceeding this voids the warranty. For non-standard openings requiring more trimming, order a custom-sized door instead.

What’s included with the door slab? Hardware is not included with slab doors. You’ll need to purchase hinges, lockset, and any other hardware separately. Slabs also require routing for hinges and drilling for the lockset bore.

How much do these doors weigh? Hollow core runs about 25 pounds for a 26x80 slab. Solid core ranges from 40 to over 70 pounds depending on width. That weight difference affects handling during installation — plan accordingly for upper-floor installations.

Are these suitable for bathrooms? Yes, these doors work for residential bathrooms. The primed finish on all six sides helps resist moisture when properly painted. Choose solid core for bathrooms adjacent to bedrooms where privacy matters.