The first thing most homeowners do when upgrading their home is replace their exterior doors. You can have a bespoke entry with a modern design while simultaneously increasing security and insulation, which is unquestionably an investment worth researching.
Should you go DIY or hire a professional?
The most effective solution depends on your needs and preferences. DIY installation requires effort and experience, but it can be accomplished with the right method and materials. For high-end or custom-sized front doors, or for complex setups such as those with sidelights or transoms, hiring a professional contractor is recommended to ensure proper installation.
This is especially true if you’re making changes to the style or layout of your front door. When you choose professionals like Window World of the Port City, Louisville Window Company, Unitedporte, or Pella, you can save your family time and ensure a flawless installation from start to finish. They all provide expert installation services.
If you are considering the costs involved, installing an exterior door yourself can be a cost-effective option. The cost of installing a front door varies, typically ranging from $500 to over $2,000, with an average around $1,300. The final price depends on factors such as the door type, material, size, required hardware, and any additional labor costs if professional help is needed. For a high-quality, durable front door with professional installation, expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000.
Once you have made your decision, here is a basic step-by-step guideline for installing an exterior door. The procedure is usually based on installing an exterior ‘prehung’ door. It usually requires removing the old door frame and panel without causing any damage to the surrounding brick or siding. Always make sure you read the instructions to install the specific door.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have your tools and materials ready. This typically includes:
- Levels (preferably 2 ft and 4 ft)
- Caulk gun and polyurethane or silicone caulk/sealant
- Nails (finish nails, galvanized casing nails) and screws (deck screws, trim screws, longer hinge screws)
- Hammer
- Pry bar
- Utility knife
- Measuring tape
- Shims (flat wood slices or chips)
- Expanding foam or fiberglass insulation
- Flashing tape or self-sticking flashing membrane
- Backer rod (foam)
- Reciprocating saw or oscillating tool (if needed)
- New exterior door and frame
- Door hardware (lock and handle)
- Interior and exterior trim
- Putty knife
- Wood saw
- Safety goggles and mask (recommended)
- Drop cloth or cushion to protect the floor
Step 1 – Measure Your Door Frame
Before you remove the old door, acquire an accurate measurement of the current frame. Measure the original door’s width and height, rounding to the nearest full inch. Measure the width of the door jamb from the back of the internal trim to the back of the external trim. You’ll also need the “rough opening” measurement (after interior trim is removed) and the “exterior opening” measurement (outside edges of the exterior casing). Take your time with these measurements to avoid purchasing the wrong size door, and check that the opening is plumb and level.
Step 2 – Remove the Old Door and Frame
Carefully remove the existing door and frame. First, remove the door from its hinges by taking out the hinge pins. Be prepared for the door to be heavier than it appears. Then, remove the interior and exterior trim. You might score the intersection of trim and jamb or wall with a utility knife to minimise damage, especially if you plan to reuse the trim. Use a pry bar, perhaps with a block of wood for leverage. Next, remove the old frame or jambs, potentially cutting through the side jambs before prying them loose. Clean the opening thoroughly, removing debris, old caulk, or nails. Inspect the surrounding structure for any damaged or rotted wood and repair it.
Step 3 – Prepare the Opening and Install the Sill
Ensure the opening is clean and the subflooring near the sill is in good condition. Check the subflooring or sill area with a level. If it’s not level, you’ll need to use shims to build up the sill to the correct height. The sill needs to be high enough so your new door swings clear of carpeting or rugs inside. Test the fit by setting your new door in the opening. An important step is often installing a sill pan, which helps protect against water infiltration. Once the sill position (or shims) is right, you might secure it with screws. Apply flashing tape over the sill area and up the sides of the opening to protect against water intrusion.
Step 4 – Place the New Door Unit and Secure
Apply new caulk or sealant along the sill and frame. Carefully place the new door frame into the opening. Use shims on both sides and along the top to position it, ensuring it’s roughly centred.
Step 5 – Level, Plumb, and Square the Door
This is where shims are your best friend! Use shims behind each hinge point on the hinge side. Use a level to ensure this side is plumb (perfectly vertical). Secure the frame temporarily or ‘tack it in’ through the shims into the studs. Next, work on the latch side, shimming from top to bottom until the jamb is straight and plumb. The aim is to achieve a consistent gap between the door panel and the frame on all sides when it’s squared and plumb. Squaring means checking that the diagonal measurements of the frame are equal.
Step 6 – Secure the Frame Permanently and Replace Hinge Screws
After everything is set using the shims you can fix the frame for good. Use nails or screws to drive across the jambs specifically in the areas where you have used shims as well as into the studs of your wall. In order to prevent hinges from moving, swap those screws that were shorter by ones that are extending through the door frame for example, 3 inch screws. Install additional screws or nails to the top and sides of the door.
Step 7 – Check the Door’s Operation
Pause here and open and close your new door a few times. It should swing smoothly without sticking or dragging. Check that the weatherstripping makes proper contact. If needed, make small adjustments to the shims. You can check the seal at the bottom by trying to pull a piece of paper out when the door is closed – it should be difficult.
Step 8 – Insulate
Now, fill the gaps between the door jamb and the rough opening with insulating material. Expanding foam is a common choice for this, specifically low-expansion window/door foam. You might need a couple of cans. Once the foam sets, stuff any remaining small gaps with insulating material like fiberglass. This step is key for preventing drafts and improving energy efficiency.
Step 9 – Apply Caulk/Sealant
Apply caulk or sealant to the external edges of the door frame where they contact the siding or wall. This is essential for keeping water from entering the wall. For doors without brickmould, consider inserting a backer rod before applying the sealant. Place a bead of caulk where the sill meets the jamb and door slab. On the inside, use foam or backer rod and sealant to seal the gap between the jamb and frame. Smooth the caulk to achieve a tidy finish.
Step 10 – Install New Trim
Whether you’re reusing the old trim or installing new, fit the pieces around the door frame. Start with the interior trim, cutting it to size and securing it with nails. Then do the same for the exterior trim. You can use the old trim as a template or order precut pieces if your new door is the same size.
Step 11 – Install the Lock and Handle
Attach your chosen lockset and handle hardware, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Align the components with the pre-drilled holes and secure them with screws. Test that the lock and handle work smoothly.
Step 12 – Finishing Touches
Snip off any excess shims that are sticking out. Ensure all assemblies and accessories are in place according to your door’s manual. If your door needs finishing (like a primed jamb), paint or stain it with an exterior-grade product. You might also add an extra trim board below the sill for support if needed. Ta-da! Your new door is installed.
Tips for Ensuring Proper Fit and Alignment: To make sure your door fits and performs correctly, here are a few pointers:
- Keep checking for level and alignment. Use your level often as you install the frame and make adjustments with shims. Small misalignments early on can cause bigger problems later.
- Weatherproof thoroughly. Sealing all gaps with weatherstripping, caulk, and foam insulation is key to blocking drafts and preventing moisture damage.
- Test the door’s function repeatedly. Open and close it frequently during the installation process to catch any sticking or alignment issues early.
Choose the right insulation and durable materials:
When selecting front doors, it is important to consider the material. Aluminum front doors offer superior strength and insulation, fiberglass provides durability and energy efficiency, while wrought iron offers exceptional toughness and longevity.
If you plan to install a front door yourself, it is advisable to choose a window or door company that offers installation support. Grandsea, a leading manufacturer of front doors in China, provides comprehensive services including design, manufacturing, logistics, and installation. With over a decade of experience and the trust of more than 20,000 customers worldwide, Grandsea has earned a reputation for reliability, quality, and customer satisfaction.
