We know, our name says “Windows,” but we’re also replacement door experts. While it’s often obvious that old windows are well functioning well, the state of an entry door might not be so clear. If you have replaced your windows recently – or intend to, chances are your doors are in the same state if the doors were installed at the same time as the windows. This is especially true of exterior doors not protected by storm doors. Depending on the quality of the door as well as the material and the amount of exposure to the elements (as well as other factors), the expected useful life of a door could vary.
There are some obvious indicators: hinges are falling off, the door has cracks, it won’t shut properly, or the damage is readily apparent. Other signs are not quite so telltale. Because next to windows, exterior doors are a major source of heat and cooling loss, it’s important to make sure your entry doors are well functioning to make sure you’re not wasting energy. Here are some things to look for:
– Does your door visibly sag? Sagging shows that a door fits poorly within its frame. If it does, that’s an indication it doesn’t seal sufficiently, which means air loss from the inside or air infiltration from the outside.
– Light shining through around any part of the door edge. Sometimes you can check this during a sunny day if the door is in an area that is dark or in shadows, such as an entryway with no windows. Alternatively, have someone shine a flashlight around the door edges from the exterior at night while you inspect indoors. If this isn’t practical, use the candle test below.
– Try the candle test (this works with windows, too). Pass a lit candle around the entire perimeter of the door on the interior side. If the candle flame flickers at any point, that’s usually an indication of air flow between the door and the frame.
– It’s difficult to lock. While sometimes this means your lock needs help, it can indicate the door has warped or otherwise is ill-fitting. The same holds true if your door is difficult to open or close. Neither of these situations is an absolute indicator that the door is the culprit, so you may want to consult a door installation company to have it evaluated.
– The appearance of the doors is unattractive. While this doesn’t necessarily speak to function, if you don’t like the look of your doors, it can be a source of annoyance. And if you don’t like their appearance, those old ugly doors may be detracting from your home’s curb appeal. This is especially important if you’re considering selling your home in the near future. The front door is often the main thing a prospective buyer driving by will look at, and form an impression of what’s inside by the looks of that door.
Entry doors serve a variety of purposes – keeping your home secure as well as keeping the elements out and your inside air comfortable. When your entry doors get older they probably are not doing the job they are intended to. Ill-fitting doors mean wasted energy and possibly a compromised locking mechanism. When in doubt, get an opinion from a reputable door company.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
