Your home’s front door may be one of the first things visitors see. Not only does it need to look welcoming, but it also needs to protect the interior of your home and function as it should. Unfortunately, entry doors don’t last forever — and if yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, it might result in inconvenience or even property damage. Let’s take a look at three signs that you need a new front door right away.
Your Door is Weathered or Cracked
Doors are meant to act as a barrier to the harsh elements, so it shouldn’t be a surprise when they start to show their age. Wood doors, in particular, are prone to becoming cracked or warped. If you spot stress fractures or large cracks, it’s probably time for a new front door.
Your Entryway is Drafty
Older homes tend to be a bit drafty, but that doesn’t mean this is a normal occurrence. Ultimately, it means that you’re losing energy (and wasting money in the process). If you’ve noticed that cold air tends to come in around the front door, even when it’s closed, replacing the weatherstripping might help. But if there’s a gap between the door and the frame, a new front door may be warranted. Keep in mind that a door without a window that’s one to 1.5 inches thick offers more than five times the insulating value of a standard solid wood door. Not only can a new door make your home more comfortable, but it can also help you cut costs.
Your Door Sticks, Squeaks, or Scrapes
Doors that are noisy, that are difficult to open, or that cause damage to the door may be good candidates for replacement. A squeaky door might be remedied by applying a lubricant to its hinges, but it could also be that the hinges are worn out or that excessive moisture has done too much damage to the door. And if you physically struggle to even get the door open, you may also want to think about whether installing a new door will solve the problem. Finally, if you’ve noticed scraping on the floor, that may mean the door is warped. Since warped doors can’t really be fixed and you’ll want to prevent other damage to your home, the best option is replacement.
If you’ve determined you need a new entryway door, we’re here to help you select the right one for your home. For more on our Gilbert Arizona replacement windows and doors, please contact HNH Build today.