Simple Steps to Upgrade Your Outdoor Exterior Doors

Thinking about replacing your aging exterior door? There's no need to worry; you don't have to be a professional carpenter. Preassembled door kits make installation straightforward, saving you time and money while enhancing your home's curb appeal. You can choose from three main types: steel doors for affordability and low maintenance, fiberglass doors that resist warping and rotting, or elegant wooden doors that require more upkeep. Here's a practical guide to help you successfully replace your worn-out exterior door.

Select a high-quality prehung door made of fiberglass, steel, or decorative wood to match your home's exterior style.

Ensure the new door matches the size of your existing one to avoid extensive modifications. Measure the door height, width, jamb width, and rough opening carefully.

Remove the old door with basic tools, taking care not to damage the surrounding trim if you plan to reuse it.

Inspect the door frame and sill for damage or rot, replacing any compromised wood. Adjust the sill height if necessary and protect it from water intrusion.

Place the new door in the opening for a test fit, making sure it aligns with the siding and casing. Trim siding or casing as needed, then reinsert the door with caulk along the sill and behind the casing. Secure the door with nails and screws once it fits properly. Fill gaps with foam insulation, then finish by painting or staining the door and trim. For new constructions, prehung doors are ideal, but custom sizes might be necessary if standard options don't fit perfectly.