A Masterclass in Home Improvement: Putting in External Doors
In this blog post, we'll provide you with the information you need in order to fit your external doors like a pro. Frelan Hardware has been supplying door hardware and accessories for almost 50 years, so we're hoping we know a thing or two about how to install external doors!
We now want to share what we've learned. So, let's answer the most important question: Is it hard to install external doors?
The Point of External Doors
Before we get into the specifics, let's take a moment to think about what external doors are all about. These quiet guards of your home do more than just look good. They're the first line of defence, save energy, and they're a big part of how your home looks and feels.
Security: The outside doors of your castle are like guards. To maintain your peace of mind, you need to have a safe door.
Energy Efficiency: An external door that is well insulated is guaranteed to help you save money all year long whilst keeping your home nice and warm.
Appeal: Your home's smile is its front external door. It tells your guests what to expect inside.
The Important Things
Now, let's talk about the turkey. Why is installing external doors easy for some people and a nightmare for others?
1. The DNA of DIY
Your ability to do things yourself is like the North Star in this business. If you were born with DIY in your blood, you're already ahead of the game. But if you're a beginner, it's fine. Just know when to call in the big guns.
2. Door Material
The door you choose will make or break the deal. Wood, steel, fibreglass, and other materials are most commonly used. Each has its own oddities.
Wooden doors are classic and can be made to look how you want, but they can be heavy.
Steel doors are strong and safe, but they are also not very light.
Fibreglass doors are easy to take care of and still look great.
The Installation
With the groundwork laid, here's the ballet of installing external doors:
1. Assess Your Old Door
Before you start with the new, it's essential to assess the old. Inspect your existing door for signs of wear and tear, taking note of any damages or issues. Measure the dimensions meticulously to ensure that the new door will fit seamlessly.
2. The Casting
Select a door that blends style with security. Consider factors like material, design, and the architectural style of your home to ensure you've got a star-studded door that provides the ultimate wow factor.
3. Tools & Equipment
You can make fitting your external door a lot easier when you have the correct tools. You will need a hammer, screwdriver, level, drill, and a saw in addition to screws, shims, and an appropriate sealant
4. Out With the Old
You can't install a new door when the old one is still in the way! We'd always recommend you recruit an extra person to assist in this step to safely remove the door. Make sure you unscrew the hinges with care so you don't damage the frame. After the door is detached, carefully remove it while being mindful of the surrounding structures to avoid causing any damage.
5. Prepare the Frame
Now that the old door has been removed, you need to prepare the frame for the new installation. Please clean the frame thoroughly, making sure to remove any debris, old paint, or remnants of sealant. This is also a good time to fix any damages or issues with the frame so that the new door can be installed on a smooth surface.
6. The Grand Entrance
Gently place the door in its frame, alignment is the key here. Once you're sure the door is lined up you can screw it into the frame.
7. Lock, stock and handle
Now it is time to install your door handle and locking mechanism, refer to your products instruction manual
8. Final Touches
You can install a weatherstrip along the bottom or around the entire external door frame to reduce heat loss, block draughts, and in some cases, prevent water from getting in.
9. Testing Time
Test your newly fit external door for smooth operation when opening and closing, ensure screws and hinges are tightly secured to the frame and your handle and locking mechanisms work as expected.
When to Call in backup?
Sometimes things don't go to plan, and even seasoned pros may need to call in backup.
Here's when to make the call:
Complex Acts: Irregular doorways or extensive modifications. The potential success of any door installation 'hinges' on the condition of your door frame. if your door frame is damaged, shaped for a specific purpose, or just awkward to access, then you may have to consider calling in professional help.
High-security Drama: The installation requires specialised knowledge and/or equipment.
DIY Newbies: If you're new to DIY, we don't recommend starting with an external door install.
In Closing
So, is fitting external doors a Herculean task? It's a bit of a "choose your adventure" story. Your DIY prowess, door material, and door frame's condition are the chapters.
A well-fitted external door? It's not just a door; it's your home's first impression. It's your security, it's your energy efficiency, it's your kerb appeal. Whether you go full DIY mode or summon the maestro, may your new door swing open to a more secure, efficient, and beautiful home. Happy fitting!