Entry & French doors
Entry doors and French doors take the most daily use of anything we install. We set them for security, weather and a smooth close, and we fix the ones that stick, drag or won't latch.
How it works
Most replacements are pre-hung units: the door comes hung in its own frame, which is set into the rough opening, shimmed plumb and anchored. Slab replacements reuse the existing frame when it's in good shape.
Fiberglass resists dents and moisture, steel is strong and economical, and wood gives the richest look but needs more care. Sidelites and transoms add light and change the opening size, which can mean a permit.
Multi-point locks engage the frame at several points along the edge, which improves security and pulls the door tight against the weatherstrip.
What we check on every install
- Sill pan and flashingA sloped pan and taped flashing under every exterior door.
- Plumb and squareShimmed at hinges and lock so the door doesn't swing on its own.
- Long hinge screwsTop hinge screws into the framing to prevent sag.
- Lock alignmentDeadbolt, latch and multi-point lock engage without force.
- Weatherstrip and sweepEven contact all around, checked with a dollar bill.
Questions we hear
Do I need a permit to replace my front door?
In Montgomery County, generally not if the opening size stays the same. Adding sidelites or widening the opening changes that.
My door sticks in summer and is drafty in winter.
Wood doors move with humidity. Adjusting hinges and weatherstrip usually helps; a fiberglass replacement ends it.
Can you install a smart lock?
Yes, including on multi-point lock doors with compatible hardware.
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