How hard is it to replace an exterior door on my house?
November 15th, 2008 | by door |
Shawn asked:
Lowes and Home Depot want around $260-$275 per door to replace all 3 exterior doors on my house. I can’t see spending $780 just to replace 3 doors without even considering what the doors will cost. I know the new doors come with the frames attached and all. How hard is this to do? Is it something a DIY-er could do well?
I am having a hard time finding companies that install these doors. What should I look for in the yellow pages? Carpenters, Framers?
ERICK
Lowes and Home Depot want around $260-$275 per door to replace all 3 exterior doors on my house. I can’t see spending $780 just to replace 3 doors without even considering what the doors will cost. I know the new doors come with the frames attached and all. How hard is this to do? Is it something a DIY-er could do well?
I am having a hard time finding companies that install these doors. What should I look for in the yellow pages? Carpenters, Framers?
ERICK
7 Responses to “How hard is it to replace an exterior door on my house?”
By kool cop on Nov 16, 2008 | Reply
in order to do it right get a carpenter to do it. local not lowes they will burn you. buy the doors that are same size and just replace the door not frame . be sure it lines up tho
By rachel on Nov 20, 2008 | Reply
with the frames attached, it could get a little tricky. first you have to get the old frame out and make sure your new door is true and square compared to the old hole. if not, this is where it could get messy. then once the new door is on you need to shim and secure it properly, and insulate it properly, too. nothing like a drafty or leaky door frame on a new door. it isn’t impossible for a person to do, but if you’re not handy, it might not work out well. try one yourself, and then leave the others for later. if you start all 3 at once and then find out it’s too hard, you’re gonna have a big mess on your hands. if you’re not a total klutz, take a shot. good luck!
By fisherman on Nov 21, 2008 | Reply
dude if you have not done it I would not suggest it it can be difficult shimming, level and plumb, tools , remember home depot is a middleman cut them out look for someone else to do it, if they are chargin you 275 they are payin them 100 , a contracter, a carpenter, shop around there are companies that just do doors and nothing else good luck from Texas
By yhprum34 on Nov 23, 2008 | Reply
It is defiantly a Do it yourself job. First to make it easy on yourself take off the hinges from the frame using a drill. Then take off all casings and use a utility knife to cut any chalk on the outside. Next get a good reciprocating saw. Run the saw on both sides of the jam, be careful of any security system wiring!!! The jam should come right out. Now clear away any debris left by the old door.
Take the new door, place in old opening, level (be sure to check all margins on the top and sides (they should be 1/4″ around). Set the door using screws or finish nails on the outside brick stop. come inside and shim door in six places (hinges and their parallel). Put long screws through the hinges so that they catch the 2×4. Now case the opening and you are done.
By tim2honorgod on Nov 23, 2008 | Reply
The problem is most doorways are not square. Therefore, some issues in hanging. It may be some task to hang. I agree it’s too much. You might be able to hang them easy enough. Measure the square of each doorway and see if it’s non-standard.
By luvlaketahoe on Nov 27, 2008 | Reply
This is a great project for you. Talk to your friends and get some advice/assistance. You’ll be glad that you’ve done it yourself and the skills you’ll learn are invaluable.
By Carpenter on Nov 30, 2008 | Reply
Installing a pre-hung unit is relatively simple,compared to machining and fitting a new door. I would suggest a visit to the local library and get a book on trim carpentry, where you can see the necessary steps.If you have the required tools and the skills have at it.If not contact a local handyman service,