7 questions to ask before you install a new exterior door

While a DIY approach might seem like a good way to save some money, an exterior door installation is a task best left to the professionals. Whether you’re installing a patio door or entry door, an improper installation can lead to a host of problems, including drafts, water leaks, and security vulnerabilities. Hiring an experienced contractor is a smart investment that pays off in several ways.

Precision fit

Professionals have the tools and expertise to take exact measurements and make the necessary adjustments for a perfect fit. This precision is vital for maximizing your door's performance and keeping the elements out.

Improved energy efficiency

Proper installation also significantly boosts performance. A door that is not installed correctly can allow air to leak, which can drive up your heating and cooling bills. Professionals make sure that the opening is insulated and weatherproofed, helping keep your energy costs down and your home comfortable.

Enhanced security

A contractor will make sure the door system, including the frame, and locks are installed correctly, providing you with peace of mind that your home is protected. We can help you find a local contractor who specializes in doors and knows our products.

When you meet an exterior door contractor for the first time, answers to the following questions can help you gain the confidence you need that they’re the right pro for the job.

1. Can you help me choose the right door?

With so many options available, selecting the perfect exterior door can feel overwhelming. A good contractor acts as a valuable guide in this process. They can assess your home's specific needs and help you navigate the choices based on your style, budget, and local climate.

There are several common materials for exterior doors (both entry doors and patio doors). Each of these materials has its own set of benefits:

• Steel doors: Known for their durability and security, steel entry doors are a popular and cost-effective choice. They're strong and won't crack or warp, offering excellent protection. However, they can be dented and may require touch-ups if scratched to prevent rust. Steel can also conduct energy, letting unwanted outside temperatures pass through the door.
  • Find a front door option that is similarly strong but better performing in our  Entry Door collection, which consists of doors made of a wood core with an exterior cladding of aluminum.
• Fiberglass doors: Fiberglass entry doors are an excellent, low-maintenance option that can mimic the look of real wood. They're highly resistant to denting, scratching, and warping, making them ideal for harsh or humid climates. Their foam core also provides superior insulation.
  • Find an option like this through our full-service replacement business, Renewal by Andersen, and their Ensemble® Entry Door. This door has a panel made of fiberglass and a frame made of fiberglass and our exclusive Fibrex® material.
• Wood doors: For a classic, high-end look, nothing beats the natural beauty of wood doors. They offer a warm, inviting appearance and can be customized with different stains and finishes. They typically start at a higher price point. Additionally, wood entry doors and patio doors require more maintenance to protect them from the elements. This is why we use specific weather resistant materials to cover the exterior of our doors, which is called cladding.. These clad-wood doors protect against the elements while retaining the benefits of wood doors.
  • Find clad-wood doors in our Entry Door collection and among the patio doors in our 200 Series, 400 Series, A-Series, E-Series, and Big Doors product lines — explore our doors.
• Composite doors: For a low-maintenance patio door at an incredible value, consider a composite option. Composite can be a smart alternative to an all-vinyl door. In fact, that’s exactly how we describe our Fibrex composite material, which is priced similarly but performs better.
  • Find composite patio doors in our 100 Series product line.

Your contractor can explain the pros and cons of each material in the context of your home's architecture, exposure, and climate. They can also help you explore different styles, from modern and minimalist to traditional and ornate, ensuring your new door complements you and your home perfectly.

2. Are you licensed and insured?

This is one of the most important questions you can ask. A reputable contractor will have no hesitation providing proof of their licensing and insurance. These credentials are a fundamental sign of professionalism, and they’re designed to protect you, the homeowner.

• Licensing is required in some states and indicates that the contractor has met established requirements for practicing their trade. This often involves passing exams and demonstrating a certain level of knowledge and experience. A license shows that they're a legitimate business that’s accountable for their work. Check your state department of labor or similar agency to see if licensure is required where you live.
• Insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents or damage during the project. General liability insurance covers damage to your property, while workers' compensation insurance covers injuries that might occur on the job site. Without this coverage, you could be held financially responsible for any mishaps.

Asking for this documentation builds trust and helps reduce your risk. Working with a licensed and insured professional like an Andersen Certified Contractor helps make sure you’re protected.

3. How long have you been in business, and do you have references?

Experience matters, especially when it comes to a specialized task like exterior door installation. A contractor with a long history in the business has likely encountered and solved a wide range of installation challenges.

Ask about their experience specifically with projects like yours. Have they worked on homes in your neighborhood or of a similar age and style? This familiarity can be invaluable, as they may already know how to handle the unique quirks of your home's construction.

In addition to asking about their history, request references or look for online reviews. Speaking with past clients can provide honest insight into the contractor's workmanship, communication, and overall professionalism. Check the contractor’s website for a portfolio of past projects, and look for reviews on sites like Google or the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Hearing from other homeowners can give you the confidence you need to move forward.

4. Can you provide a detailed written bid or proposal and discuss warranties?

A handshake and a verbal agreement are not enough for a home improvement project. A professional contractor should provide a detailed written bid or proposal that clearly outlines all aspects of the job. This document helps prevent misunderstandings and makes sure everyone is on the same page.

Your estimate should include:

• A clear scope of work describing the installation process.
• A breakdown of costs for both labor and materials (the door, hardware, etc.).
• An estimated timeline for the project.

It’s also crucial to understand the warranties involved. There are typically two types:

• Product warranty: This comes from the manufacturer and covers the door itself against defects in materials or construction. For example, we offer robust limited warranties that speak to the quality of our products.
• Workmanship/Installation warranty: This is provided by the installer and covers the installation itself. It protects you against issues arising from improper installation. An installation performed by an Andersen Certified Contractor, for instance, is backed by a two-year limited installation warranty.

Be sure to ask your contractor to clarify what each warranty covers and for how long.

5. Who will be doing the installation?

The person you initially meet with may not be the one who performs the installation. It's common for larger companies to have a sales team that’s separate from their installation crew. Ask who will be physically present in your home doing the work.

You should also inquire if the installers have manufacturer training and/or certification to install the specific brand of door you have chosen. Manufacturer certification programs, like the Andersen Certified Contractor program, mean that the installers have received specialized training on the brand's products and installation best practices. This confirms their knowledge on the correct techniques for optimal performance and upholding the product's warranty.

6. What is the project timeline?

Understanding the timeline helps you plan accordingly and sets realistic expectations for the entire process. A door replacement project involves several steps, and the total duration can vary.

Ask your contractor to walk you through the projected timeline, from the moment you sign the contract to the final walkthrough. Key milestones include:

• Ordering the door: Custom doors can take several weeks to be manufactured and delivered.
• Scheduling the installation: The contractor will book a date once the door arrives.
• Installation day: A single door installation can typically be completed in one day, though more complex projects might take longer.

It’s also wise to ask how they handle unexpected issues. Sometimes, removing an old door reveals hidden problems like wood rot or pest damage in the frame. A good contractor will have a plan for addressing these issues and will communicate with you immediately about any potential delays or additional costs.