Doors can be a major source of headaches for homeowners because many of them are not installed correctly. One small mistake may make them squeak, stick, or shut incorrectly. Here we will address four surprising facts about door installation you may not have known about.

1. Most Door Installations Have Challenges

While installing a door is a relatively straightforward process, it doesn’t always go according to plan. Sometimes, common mistakes pop up like a damaged or rough opening, improper framing, un-level floors, or misaligned hinges and plates. These factors and more all contribute to a successful install. Matching the optimal door type to the application will enhance long term performance, so always consult with your local door installation company about their recommendations before making any decisions. Pre-hung doors are perfect for new home owners wishing to replace the whole door, enlarge the entryway, or transition to a new doorway. Pre-hung doors make installing the door system a simpler and more secure process that will dovetail with your existing opening and ensure longevity in both look and performance.

2. It's Best to Install Doors in Warm Weather

Door systems with wooden components and frames can thermally expand and contract as the seasons change. Today's composite materials are more thermally forgiving. For this reason, it's essential to have an ideal environment when installing an exterior door. As a result, high-quality installations should be completed in ambient conditions greater than 20 degrees F.

3. Your Climate Impacts Your Door Possibilities

You can use the vast majority of doors in any weather. However, some will degrade more rapidly without proper maintenance than others. In northern locations, exterior doors should have desirable protection around and above the door minimizing snow buildup. With ideal exterior protection, wood door system are a possibility. However, this is not true without regular maintenance, which most users want to avoid. Over the past 10 years, door technology, especially fiberglass or composite materials, has improved door longevity offering many options for aesthetically pleasing door systems with minimal maintenance over the life of your home, regardless of protection around the door system. Fiberglass offers the most flexibility with the least amount of maintenance, keeping your door system looking new.

4. A Door Can Last 20 Years or More

When properly installed, a door system can last decades. Even though replacement exterior door systems can cost thousands of dollars, replacing them is much cheaper than repairing a damaged door, especially when factoring potential energy losses. Today's technology provides homeowners with a plethora of door type options. The Freedonia Group estimates metal and wood will account for 91% of all door sales through 2023. Exterior doors in the Great North are primarily being made of fiberglass or metal with limited lifetime warranties, while interior doors typically use wood (stile/rail design) or a molded (lower priced) system.

With doors being an essential touch point to your home, door styles and long term performance are enhanced with installation expertise and precision. If you notice issues with your doors and need a consultation, contact Divine Door and Trim, Inc. today. We guarantee we'll provide you with expert design, knowledge, and quality workmanship.