The look, function, and energy efficiency of your house can be dramatically improved by upgrading or replacing the door. Preparation is crucial for a smooth installation, whether you’re installing an entry door, patio, or interior door. Before you book an appointment or go to Edmonton for a design to choose from, you should take several steps to ensure a successful project.
Here’s an in-depth guide on how you can prepare for your door installation, from measuring the door and selecting it to preparing the installation area.
1. Learn Why You Need To Replace Your Door
Be clear about your goals and objectives for the door. You want it replaced for better insulation. What about improved security? Curb appeal? Functionality? Choosing the appropriate doors and making other selections about materials, costs, and features will be guided by your demands.
Some common reasons to replace a door include
- Air drafts and poor insulation
- Difficulty opening and closing the door
- Visible damage or rot
- The outdated style
- Security concerns
2. Measure The Door Opening Accurately
A precise measurement is critical to the installation of any door. An improperly fitted door may cause alignment, security, or airflow concerns in the future.
Measuring properly is important.
- Measure the width of the door opening from the top to the bottom.
- On both sides of the opening, measure the height.
- For the correct jamb dimension, measure the width of your wall.
- Remember to note if the door swings left or right.
If you’re not sure, the professionals at Door Store Edmonton will help verify your measurement or suggest having a technician out to assess it.
3. How To Choose The Right Doors For Your Needs
You’ll need to measure your space and then choose a new entryway that will satisfy both your practical and aesthetic requirements. Think about:
- Material: Wood, Fiberglass, Steel, Composite. Each has its own pros and cons in terms of durability and maintenance.
- Design: Choose the style of door that best complements the exterior design or interior design of your home.
- Glass inserts: You can get more natural light by using decorative or energy-efficient glazing.
- Security features: Check for reinforced cores (cores), multi-point lock systems, and impact-resistant designs.
If you are visiting a local door store in Edmonton, be sure to bring along photos of your old door, notes regarding your needs, and your measurements. This will make the process of selecting a new door much easier.
4. Clean The Installation Area
Prior to the arrival of the installers, ensure that the area around your door is cleaned and clutter-free. You should also clean the area around the door.
- Removing rugs, mats, or carpets at the door
- Taking down wall decor and shelves that might be in the way
- Clearing plants or furniture from around the installation area
- Keep pets and kids away from the process
It’s important to ensure both the interior and exterior entryways are accessible if you have an exterior door.
5. Check For Any Repairs Or Obstacles
Inform the installer in advance if there are any problems with your existing frame. If the door frame is damaged, warped, or out of square, let the installer know before they begin.
Also, check the condition of the trim and threshold. If the elements are damaged, cracked, or moving, it may be necessary to replace or repair them before installation.
6. Plan For The Weather
If you are replacing an outside door, it is important to consider when the project will be completed. You may have a period where your house is exposed to outdoor elements. Schedule the installation for a day with mild weather.
Prepare accordingly:
- Close all interior doors nearby to prevent dust and airflow.
- Spread protective floor coverings around the entryway.
- Keep a temporary tarp or barrier in your car for unexpected rain.
7. Communication With The Installer
Confirm your installation with your contractor or installer a few days prior to the scheduled date. You should discuss with your contractor or installer any concerns and special requirements before the installation.
- Installing a new system?
- Worker entry and departure points
- Parking or accessing the home
- Clean-up procedures after installation
Clarity in communication is essential to ensure everyone stays on the same wavelength and avoids misinterpretations during the project.
Final Thoughts
Replace a door. This is an easy home improvement project that will yield lasting benefits for comfort, energy efficiency, and style. It is possible to make the process quick, easy, and stress-free with the proper preparation.
If you’re in the planning stages, visit an Edmonton door store for expert advice. Take measurements, prepare the area for installation, select the product, and get expert advice.
