Keeping up with a home is hard work and it seems like there’s always something that needs to be fixed. Exterior doors are especially prone to falling into disrepair after years of daily use so it’s important to recognize when it’s necessary to buy a replacement. Having a damaged front door not only diminishes the aesthetic appeal of your house but also undermines your home’s overall security, making it imperative to address the issue sooner than later. Read on to explore 5 common signs that it’s time to invest in a new front door.

1. The Door No Longer Closes Easily

After years of use, a door may fall out of alignment with the doorframe and can become quite difficult to close properly. Given time, this friction can cause damage to the doorframe itself as the problem worsens. Damaged doors may eventually become difficult to open as well and you may soon find yourself needing to kick or push against the door to gain entry.

2. Peeling Paint and Moisture Damage

Any indication of visible damage is the first sign that your front door may need replacement. Look for peeling paint, delamination to the edge of the door, or swelling to the wood caused by moisture. If your front door contains metal components like clavos or decorative straps, you may notice signs of corrosion as well.

3. Loose Hinges and Hardware

After opening the door, check to ensure the lockset and strike plate assembly are securely fastened in place. You’ll also want to ensure the hinges to your door are properly aligned. Keep an eye out for missing screws that could allow components to shift away from their intended placement as well. In some cases, door hardware will become loose as the wood inside the door begins to decay from prolonged exposure to the elements. When this happens, it’s likely time to consider front door replacement.

4. There’s a Constant Draft Beneath the Door

Your front door will shift slightly over the years due to fluctuating humidity levels and other factors. It’s not uncommon for this movement to leave a sizable space at the bottom of the door. In winter, you may notice cold air entering the home through this crack and in the summer, cool air inside the home may escape under the door. Over time, you may even notice your energy bills starting to increase as your home’s HVAC system works harder to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. While placing a blanket against the bottom of the door may address the problem temporarily, replacing the door entirely is the best way to fix this issue long-term.

5. You Want to Improve your Home’s Curb Appeal

Another reason to replace your front door may simply have to do with wanting to increase the curb appeal of your property. If you’re planning on selling your home in the future or just want to make your entryway more inviting, the right front door can make all the difference. For best results, look for a door that accentuates your home’s existing décor and design by selecting the right color scheme or by selecting a door with attractive decorative elements like glass panes or distressed iron clavos.

At Knockety, we offer a wide selection of top-quality doors, hardware components, and decorative fixtures to create the custom front door you’ve always wanted. Browse our inventory of solid wood doors, fiberglass doors, or elegantly designed double doors, all manufactured to your specifications. Visit us online today to learn more.