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Steel doors are among the most durable and longest-lasting options available, with a typical lifespan ranging from 30 to 100 years. Their longevity depends on factors such as the quality of the door, proper installation, climate, and the amount of use it receives.

While known for their resistance to wear and tear, steel doors can get dented and scratched over time. It is important to maintain them by regularly cleaning, checking the seals, and repainting them if the paint peels to prevent rusting.

You can use a variety of wood to build a barn door, but the most common options include 1-by boards and 2-by boards for the backing and the decorative boards on the front of the door. Softwoods like pine will save you some money and should hold up well, while hardwoods like maple and oak will stand up to more wear and tear. You could also build the backer out of plywood to minimize the cuts you need to make. Whatever you decide on, make sure the width of the wood is compatible with the mounting brackets you buy.

The average fiberglass door that you purchase from your local door company or home improvement store will last around 20 to 40 years, so fiberglass doors are considered durable compared to other door materials. When properly maintained, it's not unheard of for a fiberglass door to last up to 80 years.

You can use any wood to make an interior door, provided it’s the right thickness. Common options for painted doors include pine or poplar for the stiles, rails, and mullions, and paint-grade plywood for the panels. You can also opt to make your own panels out of pine or poplar if you intend on staining the door instead. Opting for oak, maple, or another hardwood is another great option for a high-end door that will last for decades, but the wood will cost significantly more.