DIY vs. Professional Door Installation: Which is Right for Your Home?

The Door Centre • Aug 06, 2020

Installing a new door on the exterior of your house can give you an all new look noticed by the neighbours and passers-by alike. Having a professional door installation done can be the surest way to get your door perfectly hung, but some people still believe in the DIY option.

The choice to go DIY over a professional door installation company is becoming more frequent with the growth of big box stores offering cheap doors.

Often, in these box stores, the person selling you the door doesn’t have any knowledge on proper door installation and is just as in the dark as you are.

Why are people choosing DIY vs professional door installation services?

Many people see the DIY option as their chance to save money on installation costs. While doing it yourself will likely be perceived as ‘free,’ a reputable door installation company will still charge you a fair and honest price for their expert service.

Another benefit people see is that they do not have to worry about scheduling in a door installation expert. While it is true that you’ll have to find a time that both of you can work with, it is surprising how flexible a professional door installation company will be with their customers. A great one will know that you have a job, and your children will have after-school activities. They can work with you on finding an appropriate time.

Can you actually do a door installation yourself?

When people start thinking of doing a DIY door installation, they think all they need is a screwdriver and a steady set of hands – this isn’t the case! For starters, if you don’t know what you’re doing, you’ll need two sets of steady hands, as large doors can be unwieldy to the uninitiated. You’ll also have to consider:

  1. Whether or not you have all of the proper tools.
  2. Weather – if you take a long time to install your door you may expose your home to the very outdoor environment you’re trying to protect it from.
  3. The exact measurements you need to take have to be precise, can you handle that high level of attention to detail on your own?

These points are often overlooked by DIY door installers. This frequently causes them to be unsatisfied with their results so that they end up going and hiring a professional door installation company anyway!

The benefits of hiring a professional door installation company

A professional is just that – an experienced, trained and knowledgeable expert in their field. They will have the skill set that allows them to take the door you choose and put it up in a short amount of time with precision. They can also perform some minor repairs to the door frame itself, if need be.

A specialist can offer a wider variety of products fitted to your requirements, with many different customizable options. Whereas when you go to a box store, your options are severely limited, and you can’t easily update anything to match your home better.

DIY vs. Professional Door Installation: mismatched measurements

Another benefit is one which takes place before the door is even installed – a professional company can come by and take measurements for your door before you buy it. Having the exact measurements taken can minimize frustrations as a door that is off by even a few centimeters can become impossible to install.

A reputable door installation company guarantees their work

Reputable door installation companies will also guarantee their work. Minor repairs and adjustments may be needed in some circumstances, a reputable company will be able to come by and make these corrections.

The greatest benefit of all adds up all of the above mentioned positives of a professional door installation company and summarizes it as: Your door will be better able to keep warm air in during the winter, keep cool air in during the summer, and stay secure against intrusion.

Can you risk not having these benefits just to save a few dollars?

Your door is an integral part of your heating, cooling and security. These are the three things that we buy homes for, why risk it with a DIY door installation that may not be up to par?

Going with a door specialist is still the surest way of getting the right door for your home, having it installed correctly, and truly transforming the look and function of your home.

Call or visit us at The Door Centre for advice or pricing.

Elevate Your Home with Vinylbilt Diamond Collection Windows: A Green Solution for the Greener Homes Grant

By Derrick Block • 12 Dec, 2023
New Title

Your Quick Guide to Choosing the Most Energy-Efficient Windows

By The Door Centre • 06 Sep, 2023
As we enter a more eco-conscious era, homeowners are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint. One powerful change lies right within your home’s walls. Energy-efficient windows not only cut down on energy costs but also enhance indoor comfort. But how do you determine which window type suits your home? Here, we tell you everything you need to know to maximize your home’s efficiency with new windows .

Everything You Should Know Before Installing New Windows

By The Door Centre • 16 Aug, 2023
Your home’s windows play a vital role in maintaining its comfort, style, and energy efficiency. Upgrading your windows can give your home a facelift while increasing its value. In this FAQ style guide, we give you the information you need to consider before installing new windows.

Exploring Front Door Styles & How They Impact Your Home’s Appeal

By The Door Centre • 06 Jun, 2023
Selecting a new front door is an exciting process as it gives you a chance to elevate one of the most used areas of your home. In fact, it isn’t merely a home improvement task; it’s an opportunity to reimagine your entrance and make a statement.

How to Ensure Your New Door Lasts: The Most Durable Materials for Door Longevity 

By The Door Centre • 05 Apr, 2023
As a homeowner, you don’t only want your new doors to look good but also to be durable and long-lasting. When choosing a new front door, it’s essential to consider the materials that will provide the longest lifespan while maintaining the door’s quality. Below, we will discuss the most durable door materials for exterior doors while keeping affordability and style in mind.

What Kind of Savings Will I See with Energy-Smart Windows & Doors?

By The Door Centre • 11 Mar, 2023
If you’ve decided to replace your windows and doors this year, you may want to consider installing energy-efficient products in your home.

10 Things You Should Know When Installing a New Door

By The Door Centre • 28 Feb, 2023
Installing a new door can be an exciting upgrade for many homeowners. It’s an investment that not only adds value to your home but also offers security, efficiency, and curb appeal. But with so many styles available, how do you pick the best one?

Why Window Warranties Mean Your Windows Will Last

By The Door Centre • 13 Jan, 2023
A warranty is the best way product manufacturers and service providers have come up with to show you they (and we) are confident in the quality of a product or service.

The Best Windows for House Plants According to Experts

By The Door Centre • 19 Dec, 2022
The amount of sunlight a house plant receives will play a major role in how well it does over time. If the plant is given too much light, the sun’s rays will burn the leaves. If it is given too little, the leaves will turn yellow, and the plant will eventually die. In fact, one mistake made frequently by amateur indoor gardeners is thinking that their plant with yellow leaves needs more water when what it really needs is more sunlight.

How Glass Door Inserts Can Be Both Secure and Stylish

By The Door Centre • 11 Nov, 2022
Old-fashioned doors may be beautiful, but the single-pane windows they use allow lots of air in and out of your home, meaning you can lose energy and money. Today’s doors use energy-efficient glass and state-of-the-art installation techniques to make sure your inserts keep energy loss at bay. In addition to traditional glazing points, inserts are securely installed using special adhesives designed to hold the glass in place without letting moisture in. Adhesives are also developed to withstand direct sunlight and freeze-and-thaw cycles to ensure a tight, secure fit in all seasons.
More Posts
Share by: