Meeting with a contractor is a big step in your project and a key step in finding a contractor you trust. Get the information you need to hire confidently. It all starts with asking the right questions.
Installing a new exterior door is an exciting moment. Whatever the scale of your project, a large-scale remodel or just a door replacement, a new entry door or patio door can transform your home's appearance, security, and energy efficiency. However, choosing the right door is only half the battle. Ensuring it's installed correctly is just as crucial. But not to worry, we’re here to help.
Before we get into the questions you must ask your contractor before hiring them, let’s talk about why it’s beneficial to hire a contractor for your door installation.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Unless you’re experienced in construction, we recommend hiring a contractor to install your new door. It’s the best way to make sure it’s installed right.
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.
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:
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.
Your contractor should listen to your needs, evaluate your home, and help you narrow down your options to find the best door for your project.
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.
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.
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.
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:
It’s also crucial to understand the warranties involved. There are typically two types:
Be sure to ask your contractor to clarify what each warranty covers and for how long.
Protect your investment by researching warranties. Both the product warranty and workmanship warranty. Blogger and DIYer Rashida Banks added a new door to her kitchen when she remodeled. Even though she and her husband did most of the work themselves, she chose to hire a professional to install her oak Straightline Enty Door in panel style 181.
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.
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:
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.
This bedroom was part of a whole home remodel 10 years in the making. Adding a pocketing MultiGlide™ Door makes for a seamless connection to the new balcony off the primary suite.
Knowing what to expect on the day of the installation can help minimize disruption to your household. Ask the contractor to describe the process so you can prepare your home.
Find out what steps they take to protect your home during the work. Will they use drop cloths to protect your flooring and furniture from dust and debris? How will they close off the work area to contain the mess? A professional crew should be committed to keeping your home as clean as possible.
Also, ask about the cleanup process. A full-service contractor will leave your home as clean as they found it, with only a beautiful new door as evidence of their work. You'll never be left with an open hole in your wall; installers work one opening at a time or cover openings securely to protect your home from the elements.
Approaching your exterior door installation with these questions will empower you to make an informed decision and find a contractor you can trust. By doing your homework, you set the stage for a smooth process and a beautiful result that will enhance your home for years to come.
When you're ready to take the next step, consider finding a local Andersen Certified Contractor. These trusted professionals are vetted and trained to ensure your new door is installed to the highest standards. You can also explore our door inspiration gallery to start envisioning the perfect new entrance for your home.
