Tips for Choosing the Right Replacement Door for Your Home

Here are some signs that you need to replace your doors:

Door is difficult to open or close

Entry doors may squeak and stick while patio doors get stuck or grind along their track, making them difficult to open or close. This could indicate a sign of warped frames, or deteriorating parts. These issues not only make daily operations frustrating, but can also compromise the security of your home.

Gaps between door and frame

Visible gaps between the door and frame are a sure sign that you need a replacement. The same goes for gaps between windowpanes and the door frame, or cracks in the glass. Gaps indicate the door has warped or shrunk over time and should be replaced. 

Drafts and air leaks: letting heat out and cold air in

If you feel air moving through closed doors, it indicates inadequate sealing and insulation. Drafts can significantly affect your home’s temperature control and energy consumption, signaling that it’s time for a door replacement. Not sure if your doors are contributing to poor energy efficiency in your home? Start with a professional home energy assessment to evaluate your windows, doors, insulation, HVAC equipment, lighting, appliances, and electronic equipment.

Water coming in under the door or along its sides during heavy rain

When water seeps into your home from your entry or patio door, it’s another sign that the door no longer fits properly. Gaps at the bottom of a door allow insects and larger pests to enter your home. Water can also damage the door itself, causing it to warp or crack.

Outdated door design and doesn’t match the style of your home

Sometimes the issue isn’t functionality, but aesthetics. An outdated door can diminish the overall appeal of your home, especially if you’re updating other elements of your facade. Replacing an old door can rejuvenate your home’s exterior and increase curb appeal.

A recent article in Southern Living called out 14 things that can make your home look dated and minimize its curb appeal. Iron doors and those with leaded glass are at the top of the list. Dark doors and shutters can also contribute to a dated look.

Designer Liz Marie of White Cottage Farm remarks on her remodeling decisions for her farmhouse. “I love French doors because they give off this classic cottage and French country style. This room already had a ton of light from two sliders with a side light, and I wanted to keep as much light in this space as possible.” Maintaining a consistent look outside and in, and upgrading to lighter, brighter colors will keep your home looking fresh.

Door is dented or damaged and can’t be refinished to improve its appearance

Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh coat of paint or stain to give an old door new life. But physical damage, such as cracks, dents, or holes, not only looks unsightly, but can also weaken the door’s structure and security. Replacing a tired, worn-looking door is better than a quick, cosmetic fix.

What are the differences between replacement doors?

The main differences from one door to the next are style and materials. If you’re interested in moving from one door style to another—say from a patio door to a double entry door—there may be structural issues to consider. A trained door replacement professional can help you better understand your options when making a significant change to door style.

The other big difference between replacement doors is the material from which they are constructed.

• Steel doors are a popular choice for homeowners wanting enhanced security and modern good looks.
• Wood doors blend seamlessly with classic architecture and allow you to customize with color or stain to suit the look and feel of your home.
• Fiberglass doors are low maintenance, energy efficient, and built to last. Renewal by Andersen Ensemble^® entry doors offer the best of all three options, made of a Fibrex^® composite core and durable fiberglass exterior with proprietary protective coating, and available in a variety of attractive finishes.

 

Patio door replacement

Patio doors are essential for blending indoor and outdoor spaces, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Two popular types of patio doors are gliding patio doors and French doors, each serving distinct purposes and styles. Gliding patio doors, also known as sliding doors, are ideal for areas with limited space, since they open and close horizontally without requiring extra room for the door to swing open. This makes them perfect for balconies and smaller patios, where maximizing space is crucial. They often provide a contemporary look and can be designed with large panes of glass to allow for unobstructed views and natural light.


On the other hand, French doors open outward or inward instead of sliding, featuring a more traditional appearance that suits classic architectural styles. They are characterized by their double-door setup, which can be an elegant addition to any home, enhancing the visual connection between indoor and outdoor environments. French doors are particularly beneficial in larger spaces where the swing of the doors can be accommodated. When choosing patio doors, it's important to consider the door's energy efficiency, security features, and durability of materials, as well as how the door's style meshes with the overall aesthetic of your home.


Renewal by Andersen’s offering of Andersen^® patio doors come in several styles that you can customize to suit your preference and your home’s personality. Get inspired and see patio door replacement options here. 

In addition to material, the design of the door should complement the architectural style of the home and meet the functional needs of the household. Features like solid panels, glass inserts, and decorative details can enhance the door's appearance and the home's curb appeal. It's also crucial to consider the door's energy efficiency, including proper sealing and weatherstripping, to help reduce energy costs and protect against the elements. Choosing the right entry door involves balancing aesthetics, functionality, and security to ensure it meets the needs of your home, while also making a welcoming statement.

Need to replace your front door? Find single entry doors—with and without sidelights—and double entry doors that can be customized to your liking in a variety of finishes and complementary hardware choices.

_{Note that not all entry door styles may be available in all parts of the country.}