metal door frame types in Australia

Metal door frames have become a popular choice across Australian residential, commercial and industrial builds. They are durable, straight, termite resistant, and far less likely to warp or crack compared to timber frames. In Western Australia especially, where heat and dry conditions can cause issues over time, metal door frames are often a more reliable option. Understanding the different styles of metal door frames available can help builders, renovators and trades choose the right product for each project and avoid costly mistakes on site.

 

Why choose a metal door frame?

Metal door frames are widely used because they are:

  • Ideal for both residential and commercial applications
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Resistant to moisture, termites, and movement
  • Suitable for brick, block, steel, and stud walls
  • Require minimal maintenance

 

Common metal door frame styles

Standard pressed metal door frames

These are the most used metal door frames in Australia. They’re typically pressed steel frames designed to be installed during construction, before plastering or brickwork is completed.

Best used for:

  • New builds
  • Brick or block walls
  • Internal and external doors

They’re cost-effective, easy to install for experienced builders, and suit most standard door openings.

Split metal doorframes

Split frames come in two parts that fit together once the wall is finished. This makes them ideal for retrofits or renovations where the wall is already built.

Best used for:

  • Renovations
  • Replacing existing timber frames
  • Finished walls

Split frames are popular in residential upgrades because they avoid major demolition and can be installed cleanly after plastering.

Modular metal door frames

Modular frames are designed to suit varying wall thicknesses. They’re adjustable and often used in projects where wall dimensions aren’t consistent or where flexibility is needed.

Best used for:

  • Commercial projects
  • Apartments
  • Steel stud or lightweight construction

They help reduce ordering errors and allow builders to adapt on site.

Knockdown metal door frames

Knockdown metal door frames are supplied in separate components and assembled on site. This makes them easier to transport, store, and handle, especially on large projects or sites with restricted access. They are engineered for efficiency without compromising strength or alignment.

Best used for:

  • Commercial developments
  • Multi-residential projects
  • Sites with limited access or tight logistics

Regal and deluxe metal door frames

Regal and Deluxe metal door frames are premium options designed for projects where appearance, finish, and durability are equally important. They typically feature heavier gauge steel, refined profiles, and precise detailing, giving a more polished and high-end look.

Best used for:

  • Higher-end residential builds
  • Architectural or designer homes
  • Projects where visual finish is a priority

They combine quality and aesthetics, making them ideal for areas where doors are a prominent feature in the design.

 

Frame configurations and finish options

Metal door frames come in a range of configurations such as single, double, triple, quad and sliding. Finish options commonly include primed steel ready for painting, galvanised or zinc for corrosion resistance or powder-coated factory finishes for those looking for a specific colour.

Before purchasing a metal door frame, keep in mind the following:

  • Wall type (brick, block, stud, steel)
  • Wall thickness
  • Door size and swing direction
  • Internal or external use
  • Fire rating requirements

 

Final thoughts

Metal door frames are a practical and reliable choice for Australian construction projects. Understanding the differences between standard, split, modular, knockdown, Regal, and Deluxe frames helps ensure the right product is selected for the job, leading to cleaner installations, fewer issues on site, and long-term durability.