Doors play a critical role in a home or business, serving as an entry and exit point and providing privacy, security, and insulation. Installing doors can be a significant investment, so it’s important to do it correctly the first time. However, even with the best of intentions, some common mistakes can still be made during installation. In this article, we will outline the most common mistakes people make when installing doors and how to avoid them.
- Improper measurement One of the most common mistakes when installing doors is incorrect measurement. Measuring the opening size and the door size needs to be done accurately, as even a small difference can result in a door that doesn’t fit properly. Before you purchase a door, measure the rough opening, the height and width of the opening, and the thickness of the wall.
- Not considering the swing of the door When installing a door, you need to consider the swing of the door and make sure there is enough clearance for it to open and close properly. If there are obstacles in the way, like a piece of furniture, the door will not be able to open and close properly, and it can result in damage to the door or surrounding walls.
- Not levelling the door Leveling is critical to the proper installation of doors. If the door is not level, it may not close or lock properly, and the hinges can become misaligned. It’s essential to check the level of the door both vertically and horizontally before you install it to ensure it will function properly.
- Not checking for square Another important step when installing a door is checking for square. This means checking that the door is perfectly square in the opening so that it swings and closes properly. If the door is not square, it will not close properly and will eventually cause damage to the door or the surrounding walls.
- Not using shims Shims are small pieces of wood or metal that are used to level and square a door during installation. They play a critical role in ensuring that the door is level and square, but some people skip this step because they think it’s not necessary. Using shims will help you achieve a perfectly level and square door, so make sure to include this step in your installation process.
- Not allowing for proper weatherstripping Weatherstripping is critical to the energy efficiency of your home or business, and proper installation is essential. Not allowing enough space for weatherstripping or not installing it correctly can result in air leaks, which can be costly in terms of energy bills.
In conclusion, door installation is an important aspect of home or business improvement, and it’s essential to do it correctly. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your door is installed properly, functions as it should, and lasts for many years. Hiring a professional is always a safe option, as they have the expertise and experience to ensure a smooth and successful installation.