Simple Cold Weather Door Problems SOLVED

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Recently, we published a blog about solutions for drafty windows during the winter. Just like windows, winter chills can pass through your entry doors as well. Substantial heat loss and increased energy bills can be attributed to these door problems.

Unlike windows, which may remain unopened for months, doors are used daily and need to be energy efficient. There are no quick tricks to reduce cold problems such as covering or sealing them during the winter like a window. Doors need to be kept in good condition for their functionality and your comfort to be maximized.

Here are simple solutions to common door problems in the winter:

Drafty Doors

If you can feel the breeze near your front door, it is time to seal up the gaps. First, check the weatherstripping at the bottom of the door. If it is missing or disintegrating, it is simple to replace. Choose from plastic, rubber or foam inserts that you can find at your local hardware store.

Next, check the door threshold. Oftentimes in colder weather, the threshold screws become loose. Tightening the screws will raise the threshold and form a better seal against the bottom door sweep. A good test to see if your door is sealed: try to pass a dollar bill between the bottom sweep and the threshold. If it is difficult to do, then the door is sealed. Another good test is to get down on the floor to see if any daylight is showing through — so low that you are pressing your cheek to the floor for a perfect vantage point.

If you are still experiencing drafts after these two fixes, there might be bigger problems such as rot or other changes in the structural integrity of your door. You will need a door expert to diagnose the problem and we can do that for you.

Check and adjust your door hardware to ensure there are no gaps.

Frosty Doors and Hardware

Similar to the seal on a door threshold or frame, a door’s hardware needs to be sealed as well. Remember that hardware is filling a hole in the door that can become loose. Evidence of this gap in the door will be hardware that is cold, wet or even icy/frosty. Considering the heavy usage on door hardware, especially on an active door, loose hardware is usually the culprit.

Check to see that your hardware is centered over the doorknob hole first. Then when the hole is completely covered by the hardware, tighten all the screws on the doorknob or handle. This should alleviate the problem.

Check the seals and hardware on patio and sliding doors.

Frosty Patio or French Doors

Both sliding patio doors and French doors in a home are subject to developing frost on the inside of the door for a few reasons. First, the humidity inside the home can cause frost to develop on the glass inside the house. But when the frost is developing on just the glass doors and not any windows in the house, gaps in the door may be to blame, not the inside humidity of the house.

To check for drafts on patio doors, ensure that the seal is intact by closing and locking the doors. The hardware on the active sliding door needs to be sealed and tightened as well. The older your patio door, the draftier it can become due to normal wear and tear.

With French doors, one side is the “active door” and the other side is the “passive door”. The active door has the lock hardware and should be sealed tight. The passive door is more problematic, especially if the top and bottom slide bolts that keep it in place are not properly locked. With heavy use, all of this hardware on both the active and passive doors can become loose and out of position, thereby creating gaps letting cold air in the home.

Door Draft Stoppers are simple but effective solutions.

But, It’s a Rental

So your door is a little drafty, but your residence is a rental and you do not want to make any permanent changes. A quick and easy solution to a drafty door is the very cost-effective Door Draft Stopper. Placing this at the bottom of your door is literally a draft stopper. These come in many shapes and sizes to fit your door. Click here for a helpful list of the best sellers on Amazon. If you are really wanting to be budget conscious, simply roll up a bath towel and place it at the bottom of the door.

This Is Not My Forever Home

It may be difficult to justify the cost of a new door for anything other than your forever home.  However, door problems do not get better on their own and plans for moving can get delayed months, even years, leaving you uncomfortable in your home. A good door is a sound investment and has a significant Return on Investment; over 70% of the cost can be recovered during the sale of your home. So, go ahead and replace that drafty old door and live in comfort and security while you are thinking about moving. Just think, a potential home buyer will take notice and appreciate the beauty of your front door, and the obvious care you have given to maintain your home.

Drafty doors, just like drafty windows, can substantially impact the inside temperature of your home as well as your utility bill. These solutions to common door problems during the winter season can positively impact the comfort in your home with just a few simple steps.

Why Buying Replacement Doors and Windows Based on Price Is Not Always the Best Idea

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As the saying goes, you get what you pay for.

We understand that shopping to find the best deal seems sensible, but when you shop for replacement windows and doors based solely on price, you can put your considerable investment in your home at risk. Below you’ll find some of the reasons the cost of windows and doors is not always comparable and how Door Store and Windows goes above and beyond to ensure you get the best final product for your money.

Select Quality Products Built by Reliable Manufacturers

All door and window manufacturers are not created equal. Each has different manufacturing processes and quality management practices that contribute to the overall excellence of the product. To ensure your doors and windows don’t fail prematurely, make sure to research the manufacturers to determine which offers the best in demonstrated function, strength, and longevity. It also doesn’t hurt to find out how long they’ve been in business. A decades-old company is more likely to have time-tested production systems in place that make it more likely you’ll get a higher standard of door and window. And don’t forget to check the warranties—you don’t want to be left paying for a replacement for your replacement.  Here at Door Store and Windows, we only work with manufacturers that have the best and most predictable quality over time, not to mention industry-leading warranties that protect your investment long after our job is done.

Expert Project Consultation Is Key

Choosing replacement doors and windows might seem like a straight forward process, but if you don’t get it right it could mean more expense down the road. That’s where an expert replacement consultant is invaluable. They can help you determine exactly what product you need to meet your functionality and design requirements. Is your door in an overexposed entry way? You don’t want a wood door. Want your new windows to look like they have always been there? Beware standard sizes used in larger openings. This idea may lower your price, but will ultimately  detract from the overall beauty of  your home. When you work with Door Store and Windows, our project consultants carefully listen to your needs and provide you the best options for your project. We size and order products to perfectly fit your home for the highest level of functionality and aesthetic beauty. We also double—and triple—check everything before ordering to make sure you’re getting exactly what you want.

Don’t Skimp on Installation Supplies

 Using only the best installation supplies available will help your windows and doors perform at their best for a long time. Though there are cheaper options on the market, caulks with multi-year warranties and high-quality spray foam can make all the difference. Anchoring screws, adhesives, and on and on—every aspect of installation matters. That’s why we use only the best in class in all our supplies. It’s worth the cost to ensure there are no weak points in your installation that could come back to haunt you down the road.

Expert Installation Makes the Difference

Replacing windows or doors in an existing home that has settled or experienced other wear and tear is not a project for unskilled workers. A poor install could mean leaks and other issues that lead to serious damage and repair costs. You want to work with installers and service technicians who are seasoned professionals with years in the business. That’s what you get at Door Store and Windows. Our installers are factory-trained and receive ongoing safety training from outside consultants. Every member of our team is drug-tested, bonded, insured, and has passed background and safe-driving tests. To back them up, we supply them with all the best equipment as well, including new trucks and quality tools kept in top notch condition. When your installers can work at the highest level, you receive the highest level of service and expertise in return.

Measuring A Replacement Window

A TDSW Installer measuring the window insert area.

You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.  Some examples are:

  • How invasive to my home is replacing my windows or doors?
  • What will I need to do before and after the installation?
  • Who hauls away the old windows?
  • Will I have to paint the walls or trim in my room after the installation?
  • How long will I have an open “hole” in my house?
  • How long will the installation take?
  • Do the installers clean up after themselves?

Depending on the answers, you may have more expense ahead of you.  Ultimately, knowledge is power.

We Are Here to Answer Any Questions

If you’d like to discuss adding replacement windows or doors to your home, our expert Sales Consultants can help. We’re happy to walk you through all the options to find the perfect fit for your style and budget. Give us a call today to set up a free in-home, no obligation consultation.

Six Things to Think about When Replacing Your Front Door

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Once you’ve made the decision to update your entry with a new front door—what’s next? With so many door types, colors, and configurations available, the choices can be overwhelming. So let’s take a moment to run through some of the most important things to consider when determining the best fit and feel for your home.

1. Match Your Style—and Your Home’s Too

The shape and style of your new door is often determined by the architectural style of your home. For instance, sleek, crisp lines for modern designs or an arched, wood selection for a classic Tudor. However, some homeowners like to venture outside of these guidelines for something more unexpected. In those cases, we recommend a transitional style that’s a happy medium between the style of your home and your personal taste.

2. Make Safety & Security a Priority

A door is only as secure as its hardware. If you’re looking for an option that’s sure to give you peace of mind, we suggest a high-quality, multipoint locking system, where the hardware locks at different places in the door but can still be controlled by a single lock mechanism. We don’t generally recommend double-cylinder deadbolts as they may make it more difficult to get out of your home should there be a fire or other event that requires a fast exit.

There are lots of options to ensure your door is secure.

3. Determine Exposure to the Elements

How exposed your door is to the elements can have a big effect on what kind of material you choose. For example, you don’t want to put a wood door in an area that gets a lot of sun or rain. Instead, you might think of using steel, fiberglass or a clad product using multiple materials like aluminum clad wood or fiberglass clad wood. On the flipside, if your door is completely protected from the elements, the sky’s the limit—depending on your budget of course.

4. Think about Function as Well as Form

The kind of door you choose impacts the look of your entry as well as how it functions.  For instance, if the door will open to a small interior room, an inswing door may interfere with furniture placement. In that setup, an outswing door is likely a better option. If the entryway is located in the rear of the house, a sliding door is another alternative. Or maybe you need a way to move big items in and out of the house. If so, you might consider a double door system rather than a single door with sidelites. Whatever your setup, there’s a door configuration to match.

5. Choose Your Hardware Carefully

Hardware can be tricky.  If you have a very ornate door, you should consider a simpler style of hardware. On the other hand, a simple door with more ornate hardware might be more appropriate.  No matter what you choose, don’t skimp on quality.  Your door hardware is used multiple times a day so it needs to be able to withstand regular use. It’s a very important element to the door’s look and functionality—as well as your long-term happiness!

Your door color can make all the difference.

6. Find a Color that Works

Choosing the color of your door can be one of the most fun parts about the process. Whether you’re looking for a color that perfectly coordinates with your entry or for something that pops, the best option to find your color would be to buy a few pints of the paint you’re considering and paint the door you’re replacing. You can also get smaller samples and paint a piece of wood to place in front of the door to see how it looks with the house.

We’re Here to Help

We know—it’s a lot to think about. That’s where our expert Sales Consultants can help. We can walk you through all of your options to ensure you get the perfect entry door to match your style and needs. Give us a call today to set up a free in-home, no obligation consultation!

Five Reasons to Change Your Entry Door

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As we always say, your front door is often the first impression your guests have of your house—and sometimes of you too. But beyond first impressions, there are many reasons to consider a change to your entry door. Here are five we think are the most important…

Safety First

If you have concerns about the security your door offers, there are lots of options for enhancing the strength and safety of your entry, like choosing wood/clad or metal doors and adding advanced locking systems. Installing a new entryway can also address issues like rot, cracking and warping, which can provide access points for those looking to find an easy way in.

Match Your Style

Whether you’ve recently done a remodel or have just never been happy with the look of your entryway, making a change can go a long way to amp up the style meter. Using cues from your home’s architecture and interior design, choosing a matching door and entry concept can wholly transform a space, not to mention boost your curb appeal!

Energy Efficiency Is Key

One of the most important aspects of an entryway is to make sure it’s energy efficient. After all, if it’s not well sealed and insulated it’s effectively just a big hole in your wall. That can mean added dollar signs to your electric bill, not to mention possible water leakage and unwanted visitors like bugs and even mice. Different door materials like fiberglass, steel and wood provide different levels of efficiency, so it’s critical to find the right balance between how it looks and how performs.

Enhance Your Natural Light

Consider the amount of light you want in your entry hall. Maybe you like it bright; perhaps you prefer things a bit dimmer. Either way, your entry can provide lots of natural light or very little, depending on your choice of door lights, sidelites and even a transom.

Maintenance Matters

It can be easy to forget that your entryway needs maintenance too. It’s such an integral part of your home, it’s sometimes overlooked. That being said, cleaning your door is always required, no matter the material it’s made of. But maybe you have a door with a stain or varnish finish that’s harder to maintain. If so, moving to a painted or metal door might be worth considering.

If you have questions about choosing the right entry door or you’d like to speak to one of our door design specialists, give us a call. We’ll make sure you find the right fit for your home and lifestyle!

Storm Door Purchasing Guide

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At Door Store and Windows, we often have customers inquire about purchasing storm or screen doors. When it comes to storm doors, our first question is “why?”

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Case Study: A Unified Space

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It’s an unusual problem to have: how do you make two distinct houses complement one another? This is the question posed by our customer when undertaking an atypical remodeling project.

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Arcadia Custom: New Product

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Door Store and Windows is now the exclusive Arcadia Custom Windows and Doors dealer in Kentucky and Southern Indiana. Arcadia Custom produces luxury high-performance Thermal Steel and “Steel Look” Aluminum windows and doors.

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How To Pick Patio Doors

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If you’re considering purchasing a new patio door, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by different designs, styles, and materials. Door Store and Windows is here to help! If you’re about to embark on a patio door project, one of these patio door styles is sure to fit your needs.

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Connect Indoor and Outdoor Living Spaces

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To get the most out of Kentucky’s great climate, the key is to marry your indoor and outdoor spaces. We believe that the best way to achieve this is through the right door (or sometimes, the right door and window combination)! Let’s look at some options.

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Exterior Design Inspiration by Door Store and Windows

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Looking for exterior design inspiration? Door Store and Windows can help. Take a look at these gorgeous homes with Door Store and Windows products and find something that you’ll love.

Belknap Neighborhood Doors and Windows:
Full windows and doors on this fantastic Belknap brick home completely refreshed the look and feel of the exterior. The red is simply striking.

Vibrant Highlands Douglass Front Door:
This enchanting cherry red door highlights the rusty tones of this beautiful Highlands brick house. A bold color choice creates a warm and welcoming entrance.

Beechwood Village Florida Room:
Soak up the summer and warm up your winter with a Florida room like this one we replaced in Beechwood Village. These stunning, energy efficient windows maximize sunlight and bring the outdoors in without sacrificing comfort.

Indian Hills French Doors:
Simple, classic, functional, and striking. Look at how these Marvin French Doors transformed this Indian Hills indoor/outdoor entertaining space.

Crescent Hill Doors:
A new sliding patio door, front door, and side door. Refresh and modernize every entrance like we did on this Crescent Hill home for added security, energy efficiency, and beauty with a lifetime guarantee.

Highlands Curb Appeal:
This stunning Highlands home is the perfect example of how we take advantage of what the house already has. These gigantic, historically inspired windows blend elegantly with the existing architecture and provide ample natural light.

To view more amazing before and after photos, visit our Before & After Gallery.