Your front door is often the first impression visitors make of your home. It also protects your indoor living space from outside elements and makes it difficult for intruders to break into your house. However, over time your entry door can wear down and start to show signs of deterioration. If you notice cracks and gaps around your front door, you may need to replace it.
A new front door can provide a fresh, updated look for your home and increase its energy efficiency. It can also add curb appeal and boost your property value if you are thinking about selling your home in the future. But before you purchase a front door, it’s important to understand what you are getting into and what your options are.
There are many different styles and materials of front doors to choose from. Each has its pros and cons. Wood doors offer a classic traditional aesthetic but are prone to warping and swelling, while steel doors are ultra-durable but can be vulnerable to rust. Fiberglass is the most popular choice today because it offers a wide variety of style choices, durability and minimal maintenance.
You can find front door replacement at any local hardware store or building supply center, but it’s a good idea to check online as well for more options and pricing. You’ll want to measure your old door to determine the width and height so you can order a pre-hung door that is an exact fit. If you have basic carpentry skills, you can install a prehung door in about one day. If not, you’ll need to hire a professional.
If you are replacing an existing door, you will need to decide whether or not to keep the old framing or rip out and replace it. If your house has settled over time, or if the lock bore position in the old frame is off due to a broken hinge, it might be best to replace the entire frame. This is especially true if the wood is weather damaged or rotted.
While slab doors are cheaper, you’ll need to have them trimmed to size and the hinges and lock bored repositioned. This can be tricky because the dimensions of front doors are not standard. If you don’t do it correctly, you may end up with gaps around the door that let in drafts and make your house less energy efficient.
Regardless of what type of door you choose, if you are planning to sell your house in the near future, you’ll want to choose a door that complements your home’s style and color scheme. You’ll also want to consider how the door will interact with your front porch and landscape, as well as how it will look with other entrance doors in your neighborhood. Luckily, there are many design options available to suit any home and taste.