Your front door is obviously a very important part of your home, and just like any part of your exterior, it can be impacted by the harsh realities of winter. Maybe you walk by and feel a cool draft from the frigid temperatures seeping through the seals, and that isn’t uncommon.
But there are steps you can take to get your door ready for winter and keep the cold firmly where it belongs… outside.
Why Winterizing Your Front Door Matters
We often hear people talking about winterizing their homes, but the front door can somehow get lost among all the other tips. So why exactly is prepping your door so important? Well, even the smallest gaps, worn seals, or damaged hardware can let in drafts that you’ll be quick to feel when temperatures dip.
And we all know how uncomfortable a chill in the air is when it’s freezing outside. Then there are your heating bills. If you don’t notice the draft, your wallet most likely will.
So how can you get your door ready to weather the storm? It all starts with a little maintenance.
Give Your Front Door a Quick Inspection
You’re always told to check areas of your home routinely to ensure they’re working as they’re supposed to, and the same applies to your front door. Routinely checking the door, frame and hinges for visible damage, cracks, or warping can help identify minor issues before they become bigger problems.
Making sure your door opens, closes and latches properly, while also looking for any gaps or signs of daylight around the edges, can help you identify whether your door isn’t sealed correctly before the cold hits.
Homeowner tip: Close the door and look for visible light around the frame, or carefully feel for drafts on a windy day.
Check Your Weatherstripping and Door Sweep
As we’ve mentioned, letting cold air in through your door is the last thing you want when temperatures drop below freezing, so inspecting your weatherstripping for cracks, wear, or sections that have come loose can help you identify any gaps or areas where air might be getting through. You can replace any damaged weatherstripping with a suitable product, and if you need help finding the right option, our professional technicians can help.
While you’re at it, take a look at the door sweep along the bottom of your door to make sure it isn’t cracked, worn or leaving gaps where cold air can sneak through.
Homeowner tip: If you can feel cold air coming in around the bottom of your door, the sweep or threshold might need attention.
Seal Gaps and Keep the Cold Out
Your front door may contain insulation that helps keep the cold out and the warm air in. But sometimes, everyday wear and tear can create cracks or damage to the door or surrounding seals. Inspecting your door and looking for any obvious cracks between the door frame and surrounding trim or wall, and using appropriate exterior-grade caulking on suitable gaps, can help create a barrier against the elements.
If you can’t see any visible areas of damage or gaps, then you might need a technician to take a closer look at whether the door itself provides adequate insulation for your home.
When Is It Time to Repair or Replace Your Front Door?
Of course, there are small issues that you may be comfortable inspecting and performing a little DIY maintenance on, but there can also be bigger problems that require expert repair or replacement.
While not every draft requires a new door, persistent drafts, significant damage, warping or a door that no longer closes properly may require professional attention, and older, poorly insulated doors may benefit from a full replacement.
If you’re noticing drafts, a lot of light coming through your door or a lack of insulation, without any obvious visual issues, then contact us for professional advice on how to fix the problem before the cold arrives.
Get Your Front Door Winter-Ready With Overhead Windows & Doors
Alberta winters can be tough, but preparing your front door doesn’t have to be. A little maintenance now can help keep your home warm and comfortable when temperatures start to drop.
If your front door has seen better days, the team at Overhead Windows & Doors can help you explore repair or replacement options. Contact us now to get your home ready for the colder months ahead.
