A Homeowner's Guide - Part 3: Do You Need a New Entry Door?

Your entry door may not be as big as your roof or siding, but it also has a big impact on your home's overall form and function. Because it serves as the primary connection between the indoors and the outdoors, it's usually one of the biggest opening in your home. And like an extra-large window, your entry door should also be energy-efficient, weather-resistant, and long-lasting. Not to mention that it's one of the first things visitors to your home will see, so your entry door will have to be at its best all the time.

Unfortunately, constant usage and exposure to the elements can bring your entry door to a point where it can no longer function as well as it did, even after extensive repairs. When you see the following signs, it may be time for you to get a new entry door:

• Gaps around the frame - Like windows, your entry door should be airtight. If you start seeing gaps around its frame, it means your door is no longer providing insulation as it should. If the gaps are too wide for weatherstripping to fix, your front door needs replacing.
• Door getting stuck - You should be able to open your front door smoothly and without any resistance. If you're straining when opening or closing your door, it's a sign that the panel is making too much contact with the frame, causing a lot of friction. While light squeaking can easily be repaired, severe misalignment usually warrants a replacement.
• Cosmetic damage - Because it's opened or closed more than any other door in the home, your front door is more likely to get its surface scratched or chipped by different things. If it gets to a point where simply painting over the surface won't be enough to hide the damage, the only thing left to do is to have it replaced.

This sums up this guide on siding, windows, and entry doors. Hopefully this was helpful in offering you insight on how to make the right improvements for your home. Should you wish to learn more, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a home improvement expert in your area.