Owning a home comes with a long list of chores and projects — some you might expect, and others that come as pleasant surprises. While many people dread the idea of washing windows and clearing gutters, no one minds fixing up a front door.
An old, inefficient door can cost you a lot of money to stay operational. It can burn through your energy supply, fail to protect your home, and even give you a draft in the winter.
While there’s no replacing the joy of a new door, you can certainly mess up the installation process and not get the results you expect.
Here’s a quick guide to the common entry door replacement mistakes you should avoid when getting started.
Not Measuring the Entry Door Beforehand
One of the most common mistakes that homeowners make when replacing their entry door is not measuring the door beforehand. This can lead to a door that is either too big or too small for the opening, which can be a major inconvenience.
Not Checking for Structural Damage
Another common entry door replacement mistake that homeowners make is not checking for structural damage prior to installation. This can lead to serious problems down the road.
Hence, it is critical to have a professional inspect the door and frame for any damage before proceeding.
Not Assembling the Door Properly
A third mistake homeowners can make when fixing up a door is not assembling it properly, which usually begins with not gathering entry door materials before getting started.
When the door is not assembled well, it can be unstable and potentially fall off, causing serious injury.
The best way to avoid this mistake is to make sure that you follow the instructions that come with the door or have a professional do it for you.
Not Leveling or Hanging the Door Correctly
Not leveling or hanging the door correctly when installing an entry door can be another pain point for any homeowner. This can cause the door to rub against the frame, making it difficult to open and close.
It can also cause the door to bind, making it difficult to latch. Again, if you are not experienced in door installation, it is best to hire a professional to do the job.
Not Caulking or Weather-Stripping the Door
Finally, failure to caulk or weather-strip the door can be another issue for an amateur traying to do the fixing. This can lead to drafts and energy loss, which can be quite costly.
Caulking and weather-stripping your door is a simple and inexpensive way to improve its energy efficiency. But when you don’t do it right, there will be significant consequences, even if you’re installing quality exterior doors.
Eliminating Entry Door Replacement Mistakes for Good
If you’re trying to DIY your way around your home, consider these common entry door replacement mistakes so you can avoid them and prevent further damage. Of course, if you’re not confident doing it yourself, it’s always best to hire a pro.
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