The front door is the focal point of any home’s curb appeal, welcoming guests and families alike. Over time, entry doors succumb to wear and tear or become outdated in form and function. Replacing an aging or ill-fitted exterior door with a new prehung entry door unit can immediately improve your home’s appearance, security, energy efficiency, and functionality. 

While certainly a significant DIY or contractor project requiring proper planning and know-how, installing a new front door pays dividends for years to come. This guide will walk you through removing your existing door and installing it for optimal performance. 



When to Replace an Entry Door

Several signs indicate that an existing exterior door on your house may need to be replaced. If the wood has begun to deteriorate or rot, it’s likely time for a new door. Doors may also need replacement if the joints are loose and no longer fit tightly together. 

If the exterior surface of the door won’t properly hold paint or other finishes, a new door that can be refinished may be in order. Inadequate weatherstripping around the edges and a threshold that doesn’t provide a good seal against drafts are other indicators to swap the door out. Additionally, an exterior door with uninsulated, single-pane glass lacks energy efficiency and warrants an upgrade. 

Any of these issues suggest your exterior door has reached the end of its lifespan, and installing a new one is the best solution.

If the existing entry door on your house doesn’t have any of the problems listed above, you may want to try to refinish and refurbish it instead, which can be less work than replacing the entire door unit.

While you can replace just the door, it’s easier and provides a better seal to replace the entire unit of door and frame. However, if the house is older and the frame isn’t standard, it may be better to replace just the door.

For further information, visit https://todayshomeowner.com/doors/video/replacing-entry-door-mailbox-improve-curb-appeal/


What to Consider Before Replacing an Entry Door

Before tackling an entry door replacement, be sure to consider these key factors:

Wood, steel, and fiberglass have pros and cons for durability, security, efficiency, cost, and appearance. Carefully weigh which makes the most sense.

Consider styles such as Craftsman and contemporary cottage and what fits your home’s architecture. Measure to ensure proper fit.

Look for an insulated door with a high R-value, multipane glass, and weatherstripping to reduce air leaks. ENERGY STAR doors are excellent choices for optimizing your home’s energy efficiency. 

Thick steel, reinforced frames, high-security locks, peepholes, and sidelights can boost security.

If anyone has mobility challenges, consider auto-openers, low thresholds, levered handles, and other accommodating features.

Steel and fiberglass hold up better than wood. However, some wood doors are rot-resistant, which is a good choice for homeowners interested in a classic wood door. 


How to Remove an Existing Entry Door

Removing your current entry door takes time and care but creates a clean slate for installing a new prehung unit. Start by carefully prying off molding and casing using a pry bar, pulling any nails from the jamb as you go. 

Next, take the door off its hinges by loosening the hinge pins and supporting the weight as you detach it. Unscrew the jamb screws attaching it to the rough opening in the wall. Then, use a circular saw to cut through any caulk. 

Remove the remaining jamb screws before bracing the door and slowly working it free with a pry bar. Make sure to remove the entire jamb. Once detached, inspect the rough opening, making any necessary repairs or preparations for the new door. 

Today’s Homeowner Tips

If not reusing the old door, properly dispose of it at a recycling center. 


Installing a New Prehung Entry Door

Follow these steps to install a new prehung entry door properly:

  1. Set the prehung door centered into the opening. Shim beneath the threshold for support.
  2. Make sure the jamb is plumb on both sides. Shim and adjust until plumb.
  3. Drill pilot holes through the jamb into rough opening studs. Drive lag screws to secure.
  4. Caulk perimeter between jamb and opening with exterior sealant.
  5. Install casing around the door jamb. Nail it into place.
  6. Seal and weatherstrip the threshold area thoroughly.
  7. Install new lock hardware, handle sets, deadbolts, and accessories.
  8. Paint or stain the door and trim to match the exterior.

With proper installation and sealing, the new door will improve curb appeal and security for years. 


Hiring a Professional for Installation

Installing an exterior door is an intermediate-to-advanced project that many homeowners hire a knowledgeable contractor to complete. 

There are several good reasons to bring in a pro for this job. First, contractors have experience accurately measuring and ordering the right size door for your home’s opening. They also have the skill to properly hang the door so it is level, plumb, and square within the opening. In addition, professionals are equipped to handle installation challenges, such as uneven openings, with ease. 

Experienced contractors also know how to take precautions to avoid damaging your home’s exterior or the new door during installation. Finally, they can expertly install all necessary hardware and finish the job promptly and professionally. 

The cost of hiring an exterior door installation service is usually $550 to $650. However, prices vary dramatically based on the project’s complexity, the type of door, and the contractor you choose. We recommend collecting three to five quotes from qualified professionals before selecting who to hire.


Get Your Estimate From a Door Expert
Match with an expert to help you with your project.

So, Is Replacing an Entry Door a Good Idea?

Although it’s a significant endeavor, installing a new door yourself or hiring a pro can be worthwhile. Understand your existing setup fully before purchasing and demolition. With adequate planning, you can have a beautiful new door welcoming you home soon.

Replacing an aging or ill-fitted door provides benefits like better appearance, security, efficiency, and functionality. The project also boosts curb appeal and can pay off when selling your home in the future. 


FAQs About Replacing Entry Doors

How much does it cost to replace an entry door?

For a basic to midrange door and pro installation, costs typically range from $550 to $650. High-end wood doors with custom options can cost well over $1,200 for installation alone.


Can I install a new entry door myself?

With carpentry skills and tools, you can do it yourself, but it’s challenging. Hiring a pro is easiest and ensures the door is installed correctly, so you don’t have to worry about damage to your door or compromised home security.


What is the most secure entry door material?

Thick commercial-grade steel with reinforced frames and high-security locks is the most secure door material on the market. Steel doesn’t warp like wood or other door frame materials, making it an excellent choice for a secure entry door.


How do I know if my entry door needs replacement?

Signs include visible rot, cracks, peeling paint, loose joints, air leaks, damage, and inability to lock securely. Replacing an inefficient door can improve your home’s security and save you money on energy costs.


What is the most weatherproof entry door material?

Insulated fiberglass holds up best to moisture, temperature extremes, swelling, and UV rays. Get a door with weatherstripping and proper overhang coverage for the best protection.


Editorial Contributors
avatar for Amy DeYoung

Amy DeYoung

Contributor

Amy DeYoung has a passion for educating and motivating homeowners to improve their lives through home improvement projects and preventative measures. She is a content writer and editor specializing in pest control, moving, window, and lawn/gardening content for Today’s Homeowner. Amy utilizes her own experience within the pest control and real estate industry to educate readers. She studied business, communications, and writing at Arizona State University.

Learn More

photo of Lee Ann Merrill

Lee Ann Merrill

Chicago-based Lee Ann Merrill has decades of experience writing and editing across a wide range of technical and scientific subjects. Her love of DIY, gardening, and making led her to the realm of creating and honing quality content for homeowners. When she's not working on her craft, you can find her exploring her city by bike and plotting international adventures.

Learn More