Whether they are meant to be tough against the elements or easy on the eyes, doors play an important role in a home. However, selecting the right door can be a difficult task. Fortunately, there are many experts who can help with the process. Just answer a few simple questions and get matched with top-rated local pros.
Choosing the Right Door for Your Home
The door is the first thing that guests see and a big part of your home’s curb appeal. It also plays a key role in keeping your family safe and saving energy. Energy-efficient doors are not only a great investment for your home, they’re also a top selling point for resale.
When choosing a front door, it is important to consider the materials that are used. There are a wide variety of choices, including solid woods and steel. The type of material you choose should depend on the style of your home. For example, a wooden door is best for homes with a traditional aesthetic, while a steel door would look out of place in a house that leans more toward modern.
The next factor to consider is size. A professional can help you determine the ideal size of your door by measuring the height and width of your existing door frame and jamb. They can also measure the depth of the frame to ensure the new door will fit properly.
Choosing the Right Door Frame
It is important to choose the right door frame to ensure the correct fit and operation. This step is usually done before the installation process starts. The door frame must be a sufficient size to accommodate the door and to prevent it from warping over time. It is also necessary to account for the thickness of any floor covering, as well as drywall and other framing materials.
To determine the size of a door frame, you will need to measure the height and width of the rough opening. The width is the distance from one edge of the stud wall to the other, and the height is the distance from the bottom of the rough opening to the top of the sill.
If you are replacing an existing door, you can purchase pre-hung doors and frames that include the hinge mortises, deadbolt cutouts, and lockset holes. Before you install, check the strike side of the jamb for plumb by placing a 6’ level on the face of the jamb and adjusting shims until the bubble on the level is in the center.
Choosing the Right Door Hardware
The hardware that goes on your doors adds to the overall look and feel of your home. Choose finishes that are consistent with the style of your home or that complement other fixtures like lighting and plumbing.
Before you head out to purchase new door knobs or lever handles, make a list of what you need. This will help you avoid being swayed by dazzling options or purchasing more than you need.
Also, remember to measure your existing doors. This will help you determine what size doorknob borehole and cross bore you need to get the right fit. Standard doors are 1 3/8″ thick, and most hardware is manufactured for this size.
Be sure to count all your doors, including closets, laundry rooms and basement entries. This will ensure you order enough door hardware for each room and that it is the proper handedness for the function you want (e.g., a lever handle that locks on the outside requires a right handed door handing). This is important to keep in mind when shopping for your new hardware.
Choosing the Right Contractor
Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, doors make a big impact. Not only do they enhance your curb appeal, but they can also increase your property value and save on energy bills. So it’s important to hire a professional who can get the job done right the first time around. A good place to start your search is by asking friends and family members for recommendations. They may have used a contractor to hang their doors and can recommend someone for you.
In addition, you can also check online reviews to see what other people are saying about the contractors you’re considering. You should also look for contractors that are certified with a specific manufacturer, as this shows that they have extensive product knowledge and expertise. This can help ensure that your doors are installed correctly and last a long time. Also, it’s a good idea to hire a contractor that offers a warranty on their work.