How Do I Replace My Front Door?

Yet, like many home improvement jobs, people can be put off replacing their front door because they don’t know what it involves. Without knowing the cost, time, or process of replacing a door it can be hard to fully weigh up the benefits.

In this guide we’ll cover exactly what is involved in replacing your front door and answer some of the questions that our team is often asked, to help you decide if it’s worthwhile for you.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Front Door

Tools You Will Need

Hammer
Pry bar/crowbar
Utility knife
Spirit levels
Expanding foam
Caulk (and gun)

Remove the old door
With the door closed use a hammer to gently knock out the hinge pin from the centre of your door hinges. Start with the top hinge first. When the pins are out, carefully lift out the slab of your existing door.
Remove the door frame, trim, and jamb
Cut around any caulk or seal that is currently holding the door in place. With an exterior door the caulk is usually quite thick so take your time to do it properly. Remove the interior trim, exterior trim, and the jamb in the same way: by easing your crowbar between the wooden frame and the wall then carefully levering them out.
Check the condition of the opening and the sill
Check there was no damage to the walls while removing the door frame and then check the sill that sits under the door. Make sure there is no damaged or rotted wood – if there is then the sill will need replacing. You should also check the height of the sill to see if it will fit your new door. If it doesn’t, you may need to replace it or lift it with shims. If this is the case, make sure the sill is completely level after lifting.
Put the new door and frame into position and screw it in
Lift your new door into the opening. Check the fit of the frame before screwing, adding shims at either side of the frame if necessary to level it out. Start with the hinge side of the door, and only fix the screws that sit beneath each hinge. Then move to the top and finally the lock side. After every screw, use a level to check the frame is square, and open and close the door to make sure it operates smoothly.
Neaten the edges around the door
Start by filling any gaps between the door and the opening with expanding foam. This will help create a robust seal to stop moisture from getting in or heat from escaping. When this has dried, you can neaten up the edges using caulk to create a more visually pleasing finish.