When it comes to upgrading your home, installing the perfect exterior door ranks high on the list. Not only does it elevate your home’s appearance and security, but it also plays a crucial role in energy efficiency. As trusted manufacturers, OKNOPLAST crafts durable, visually appealing exterior doors that seamlessly blend with the home’s style. Drawing from years of expertise, we assist homeowners in selecting the perfect door to meet their requirements and budget.
This comprehensive guide will take you through the essential steps of installing an exterior door to enhance security, efficiency, and overall appeal. From selecting the right door to the final inspection, each step is crucial in transforming your home’s entrance with lasting impact.
Choosing the Right Exterior Door
Selecting the optimal exterior door is the foundation for a successful installation. Of the many available options, aluminum and uPVC doors emerge as some of the most popular choices in the US. Homeowners increasingly choose these technologically advanced doors yearly for their energy efficiency, durability, and design flexibility.
Aluminum doors boast slim, modern profiles that maximize glass area for inviting natural light. The metal’s strength resists dents and scratches and conducts less heat. uPVC doors offer weather resistance, noise reduction, security features, and a vast array of color and finish options. Their multi-chambered internal structure provides excellent thermal insulation.
Both aluminum and uPVC are low-maintenance materials that retain their pristine appearance over time. With an abundance of design configurations, they can complement any architectural style. Their combination of aesthetics, efficiency, and durability make aluminum and uPVC superb choices for replacement doors or new construction.
uPVC Doors
UPVC front doors are made of PVC door frames and a wide range of extremely durable model fillings, which make it possible for everyone to find the door of their dream home, regardless of the design or style. Customize your door with accessories or decorative glass to give it unique character. To maximize living comfort, the door is equipped with a low 0.72 inch Winstep threshold, made of aluminum and PVC. The door can also be opened and closed remotely thanks to OKNOPLAST’s SMART solution. Enjoy many years of trouble-free use with the door of your dreams. Learn more about benefits of BASIC and PREMIUM uPVC door systems by OKNOPLAST.
Aluminum Front Doors
Sleek, modern aluminum doors conduct less heat while resisting dents and scratches. Thinner door profiles maximize glass area for ample natural light. Choose aluminum for contemporary aesthetics and slim, sturdy construction.
Our aluminum door system, “Elite,” represents modern engineering excellence, melding style with top-notch security and thermal efficiency. With a sturdy 90 mm build and panels made of dual 3 mm aluminum sheets packed with high-insulation material, these doors redefine energy efficiency, boasting a low thermal transmittance coefficient (Ud) of only 0.69 [W m K].
The Elite showcases a vertical handle for exterior elegance and functionality, various internal handle finishes, adjustable roller hinges for precise alignment, and a protective ring for the lock cylinder. Equipped with a Secury Automatic 2 self-locking mechanism securing the door at three points, the Elite system prioritizes security while maintaining a sleek design.
Now you know some of the best options for modern front doors, let’s delve deeper into accurately measuring your doorway.
How Do We Measure Front Doors?
The first step is accurately measuring the doorway. Precise measurements ensure your new door fits perfectly within the existing frame. Use a steel tape measure to determine the height and width of the opening. Measure in multiple spots for consistency. Note the dimensions as well as the direction the door will swing.
Provide these measurements and specifications to your door supplier to obtain your custom-fit exterior door. Their experts can recommend your home’s ideal material, style, and size.
Tools and Materials Needed
Installing an exterior door by yourself requires gathering the proper tools and materials ahead of time. Below are some of the essentials:
Tools:
- Tape measure
- Level
- Utility knife
- Drill/screwdriver
- Hammer
- Shims
- Squaring bar
- Safety glasses and work gloves
Materials:
- New exterior door and frame
- Weatherstripping
- Insulation (for gaps)
- Caulk/sealant
- Galvanized screws
- Wood putty (for finishing)
Ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials before beginning. This will prevent delays and allow you to focus on the installation process fully. Consider borrowing specialized tools that will only be needed for this singular project. If the door system you choose is highly advanced, we recommend contacting a trusted contractor so you won’t void your warranty and that the doors operate correctly afterward. There is more technology in modern door systems than meets the eye.
Installing the New Door
Once you have the new door and supplies, it’s time to prepare the doorway for installation. Begin by safely removing the existing door and frame. Use a utility knife to cut through the caulk, sealing it in place. Support the door’s weight as you detach the hinges and lift it out. Remove any remaining screws, nails or hardware.
Examine the doorway for any necessary adjustments. Use a chisel or rasp to widen the opening to accommodate the new door’s frame. Scrape away old caulk and paint buildup. Ensure the sill is level and solid beneath the threshold. Verify the opening is square using a framing square or carpenter’s level.
The doorway should now be ready for the seamless integration of the new exterior door. Take time to address any underlying issues to prevent future problems.
With a perfectly prepped doorway, it’s time to install the beautiful new exterior door. Follow these key steps:
- Setting the Frame: Place the door frame securely into the opening. Use shims to adjust until the jambs are plumb and level.
- Securing the Frame: Drill pilot holes through the frame and into the wall studs. Drive 3-inch galvanized screws into each hole to firmly anchor the frame. Recheck for level and plumb.
- Installing the Door: Hang the hinged door onto the screws protruding from the frame. Attach any additional hardware like locksets or closures.
- Sealing and Insulating: Caulk around the exterior perimeter of the frame. Insert insulation between gaps to improve energy efficiency. Apply weatherstripping along the stops.
- Finishing Touches: Install interior and exterior trim molding for a seamless look. Paint or stain the door to match your home’s style.
Follow each step to ensure your door functions beautifully and seals tightly. Once the exterior door is installed, inspect it thoroughly to ensure quality and functionality. The alignment is the most important thing at this stage. Also, check if the lock and hardware operate seamlessly.
Why Choose OKNOPLAST Installers?
With decades of experience excelling in exterior door design and installation, OKNOPLAST offers homeowners unmatched expertise and quality.
Our team’s specialized knowledge in doors and windows ensures your project runs smoothly from start to finish. Our commitment to high-caliber products will enhance your home for years to come.
We understand that each home is unique. At OKNOPLAST, our consultants will help you select the ideal exterior door for your home’s style and needs and customize it specifically for your doorway.
For exterior doors that blend aesthetics, performance, and durability, trust the professionals at OKNOPLAST. Our tailored guidance and precision installation lend peace of mind that your new entryway will secure your home in style.
About the Author: Oknoplast Team
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