There are many things that can damage your exterior doors, and it can be hard to replace them without the knowhow. You should contact your door installation contractor to get the job done, or you can do the installation yourself if you can follow a few simple steps:
You can order a new door according to the size of your old one. If you want to install a new door, you will have to reframe it; a process that is very complex for the average person. Using a door of the same size as your old one will save you a lot of time.
Take the measurements of the height and width of your door. Often the door will end up with an extra fraction of an inch on the measurements, and you should always round up to the next inch, i.e.; 36 ?" becomes 37"
Measure the width of the wall in order to determine what the width of the door jamb will be. You want your door jamb to fit flush with the wall, so you should take the measurements carefully to ensure that you get the width right.
Remove both the interior and exterior trim around the door frame so you can get accurate measurements. Once the trim is removed, measure the exact width and height of the door to calculate what size of door you need to order.
Once you have done the above things, you can simply order a new door from your local hardware store. It is best to order a door that is pre-hung, meaning it comes already installed on its frame. This will make the installation process much easier for you, and will save you a good deal of time and headache.
Now begins the actual installation process:
Remove your old door and door frame from the opening.
Install the door sill, which is the part that the door and frame sit on to raise it above the level of the floor around it. You need to make sure that your sill is level; else you might find that you can't open or close your door.
Insert the door into the space for it, and adjust the door to ensure that it sits in the exact center of the opening.
Add wooden shims between the door frame and the wall around it before nailing the door frame and shims to the wall.
Add caulking and exterior weatherproofing to the door, according to the instructions that accompany the door.
Make sure that you use insulation foam in order to provide a barrier between you and the elements that would seek to enter your house through the crack between the door frame and wall.
Replace the exterior and interior trim of the door to make it look as good as new
The process of installing your door can be fairly simple to someone who knows how to do it properly, but you should call a door installation expert if you aren't sure you can do the job right. You can save a lot of time and money if you have an expert install the door, and you can be sure that the job will be done correctly and professionally.
The best time to do this is during the spring and summer time. Winter is harsh in Canada and it takes its toll on your home, your roof, your windows, and doors. It is necessary to replace these after long wear and tear.