If you are a homeowner, you are likely aware of the struggle that comes with trying to stay on top of the tiniest details. Between wear and tear, accidental misuse and damaging weather conditions, it is hard to keep track of all your home maintenance needs. The problem is that when some things are not fixed right away, the damages accumulate, eventually leaving them significantly out of shape. Waiting on your repairs for too long could leave you with a bill that breaks the bank. Your front door is one of the things around your home that should be kept on top of.
From endless slamming to being constantly exposed to harsh sunlight and heavy rainfall, your front door may eventually need to be replaced. A worn-out front door is not something you want to neglect for obvious reasons. Here are the telltale signs that your front door needs to be replaced.
It Is in Horrible Shape
Many people forget that wear and tear are not only about the physical appearance of your home fixtures but are also about functionality and integrity. If your door is peeling, warping or cracking, this is a sign that you may need to have it replaced. While you may think that a peeling wooden door is not a drastic issue, it is a sign that your door has really aged or has been subjected to very violent weather conditions.
Either way, once your door has reached this point of physical distress, it means that it probably won’t hold up well. Because you don’t want all the environmental elements like dust and rainwater or even noise and sunlight, to make their way into your home through the front door, you should consider getting it replaced. You also don’t want your belongings to be protected by a door that anyone can easily break through.
It Gets Stuck
If your front door gets stuck often, this is a really strong indicator that you need to get it replaced. A door that gets stuck often is not only a hassle, but can lead to further damage. For instance, if you have kids, they may be unable to open the door if you step outside for a second. Struggling to open or shut the door every time can also result in further damages to the door frame, door sill, knobs and hinges.
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You can replace a front door yourself, or hire a contractor. If you hire someone, make sure they’re a licensed professional. Depending on the size, material, style and design of the door, as well as the pricing structure of your chosen contractor, having your door replaced can cost you anywhere between a few hundred and a few thousand dollars.
Chillier Than Usual
If your home has been feeling chillier than usual, this could be an indication that your door needs to be better sealed, or failing that, replaced. Many people, especially those who have been living in their homes for quite some time, experience cold drafts that run through their front door. Chilly drafts come with higher energy bills, even if you’ve gone to the trouble of insulating and air sealing other parts of your home.
The efficiency of your door is closely associated with energy efficiency. Where there is a door that fails to do its job properly, there is more demand on the HVAC system and a bill that can put a dent in your pocket. A well-sealed door can go a long way to lowering your heating bills. Pay attention to how comfortable you feel at home and periodically run your hand along the edges of your doors (and windows) to detect drafts.
Style Update
Your door doesn’t have to be falling apart in order to get it replaced. Sometimes, a good enough reason to replace your front door would be that it’s simply out of style. Even if you haven’t made major renovations to the interior of your home, you’ve probably changed its aesthetic over the years. Maybe you’ve replaced a few cushions and rugs here and there and done a minor repaint job.
Even if these are not drastic changes, they are still style updates; if your front door looks out of place, then you could start thinking about having it replaced. A new, stylish front door can significantly boost your home’s value.
If you are a homeowner, you are likely going to have to replace your door at some point. Front doors, unlike other home furniture and appliances, don’t need constant upgrading. However, when left neglected for too long, getting them replaced becomes a must. If you think that you may be facing one of these issues with your door and you can’t repair it, it’s time to think about replacement.
Feature image: Christian Stahl; Image 1: Evelyn Paris
