Guide to Replacing Your Exterior Doors Effectively

Learn how to replace your exterior door with ease using prehung units. This comprehensive guide covers measuring, removal, fit testing, sealing, and finishing, ensuring your new door enhances your home's appearance and functionality. Perfect for both DIY enthusiasts and homeowners seeking a cost-effective upgrade.

Guide to Replacing Your Exterior Doors Effectively

Thinking about upgrading your old, worn-out exterior door? Don’t worry; replacing it is simpler than you might think. Preassembled door kits, known as prehung units, streamline installation, saving you time and costs while enhancing your home's curb appeal. You can choose from three popular materials: affordable, low-maintenance steel; durable, rot-resistant fiberglass; or elegant, traditional wood that requires regular care. Follow this straightforward guide to successfully replace your exterior door, ensuring a perfect fit and improved home appearance.

Select a high-quality prehung door in fiberglass, steel, or wood finish that matches your home's style.

Measure your current door carefully, including the door size, jamb width, rough opening, and exterior opening, to ensure an accurate match.

Carefully remove the old door using standard carpentry tools, being cautious to preserve any reusable interior moldings.

Inspect the framing and floor in the sill area after removal, replacing rotten or damaged sections and adjusting the sill height as needed to prevent water intrusion.

Test-fit the new door in the opening, checking the casing alignment against siding.

Trim siding or casing if necessary, then reinsert the door, sealing gaps with caulk along the sill and casing.

Secure the door with nails and screws once satisfied with fit and operation.

Fill any gaps between the jamb and framing with foam insulation to improve energy efficiency.

Finish your project by painting, staining, or varnishing the door, jamb, and trim for a polished look.

Note that prehung exterior doors are ideal for new constructions and homes. If your measurements differ from standard sizes, ordering a custom-sized door is recommended for the best fit and appearance.