An exterior door that sticks, drafts, or looks tired does not always need replacing — but sometimes a repair only postpones the inevitable. Here is a simple way to think about it.
When a repair makes sense
If the door itself is solid and the problem is mechanical — a dropped hinge, a worn strike plate, a failing lock, or weatherstripping that is past its best — a repair is usually the cheaper, faster fix, and the door will work like new.
When replacement is the better call
If the door is warped, rotted, cracked, poorly insulated, or no longer seals no matter what you do, replacing it is often the smarter long-term choice. A new door seals better, looks better, and can improve security.
- Visible rot, warping or cracks
- Drafts or leaks that persist after new weatherstripping
- Damage from a break-in or impact
- You simply want a different look or better insulation
Not sure which way to go? Get in touch and we will take a look and give you an honest recommendation.