Seven signs it’s time to replace a wood front door
You may be wondering what are the signs it’s time to replace a wood front door. Many of our customers have used this list to help them decide if it’s time to upgrade a wood front door in Raleigh, NC.
From changes in the way the door functions to subtle signs of damage, here are eight signs that it’s time to replace a wood front door.
1. Signs of water damage may mean it’s time to replace a wood front door
If you notice dark streaks coming up from the bottom of your door, your door panel may have moisture damage.
Likewise, recognizing that the bottom of your wood door is a slightly darker color than the top portion could mean the same thing.
This kind of water damage cannot be corrected, and over time can lead to rot and breakdown.
Water damage of this kind is a definite sign that you should replace your wood front door.
2. Feel a draft? That’s another indicator that you may need to replace a wood front door
If you feel airflow from outdoors coming into your home through your front door, it may be time for a change.
This draftiness means that your home isn’t as energy efficient as it should be.
Replacing your failing wood front door can mean saving on your energy bill.
That’s especially true if you replace it with a fiberglass clad front door. These are generally more energy efficient than wood front doors.
3. Light coming in, either through or around the door panel, may mean it’s time for a change
If you see light coming in through the panel, it means that your door panel is cracked.
This is a signal that your door is no longer energy efficient. However, it may also mean that your door panel is more vulnerable to further damage. Critically, this makes it a potential safety risk.
Or, you may notice light coming in from between the panel and the door frame.
There are many issues that can cause this. Some can be easily repaired, like replacing weather stripping.
Other times though, the issues may be more integral. In these cases, the only solution to maintain your home’s energy efficiency is to replace the door.
4. Rotting wood is a definite sign that it’s time replace a wood front door
It may be easier to feel for signs of rot than it is to look for them. If you touch your door and notice that some areas feel softer and have more give, your front door may have rot damage.
Here in the Raleigh area of North Carolina our annual average humidity is a whopping 70%. Because of this, wood doors in our area are especially prone to rot.
5. Cracks or damage to the door panel means that you should replace a wood front door
If your door has sustained damage, it may be more vulnerable to further breakdown in the area of the damage. This kind of damage may be due to pets, being banged into, or weather events.
If the damage is significant, you may want to consider replacing your wood door at the outset if the damage can’t be repaired. This ensures that your home stays secure and energy efficient.
6. You should replace warping wood doors
The excessive heat and humidity we see in the Raleigh area is to blame for causing warped wood doors.
Over time, warped doors may refuse to close and lock. This is an obvious safety concern, and should be addressed immediately.
7. Finally, if you’re just tired of your wood front door, you should consider replacing it
Maybe you’ve just grown tired of the style of your old wood front door.
Does your front door feature dated stained glass? Perhaps an outdated grille pattern? Or maybe you’re just sick of the boring, builder-grade flush panel?
Sometimes you just have to let go of a door that no longer suits your taste.
Take advantage of this opportunity to have a major impact on your home’s curb appeal with one simple change.
Summary
Whatever the reason, eventually wood doors need to be replaced.
When you’re ready to replace your wood door, reach out to us at Window Works Co.
We help homeowners in the Triangle find beautiful new doors. Whether you decide to replace the front door with another wood door, or if you’d like to learn more about fiberglass clad doors, we’ll be happy to answer your questions.
Use the contact form below to let us know about your needs today.
And after you do, be sure to check out this Pinterest board. In it, we share our favorite ideas for how to repurpose your old front doors into beautiful new home projects!
