Installing a door might seem like a straightforward weekend project, but it’s one where small mistakes can lead to big problems. From drafts and leaks to sticking doors or compromised security, improper door installation can turn your DIY enthusiasm into a long-term headache. Custom door installations can complicate this process even further.
At Arcana Windows & Doors, we’ve seen firsthand the issues that arise from DIY door installs. It’s a regular occurrence for us to get calls from homeowners who are well into a project before realizing they might not have the skills to handle a custom installation. So, before you grab your tool belt, here are some of the most common mistakes homeowners make and how to avoid them.
- Incorrect Measurements
The Mistake: Measuring the door frame once (or not at all), assuming all doorways are standard-sized.
Why It’s a Problem: Even a fraction of an inch in discrepancy when measuring for a door replacement can result in a poor fit, leading to gaps, sticking, or improper sealing.
How to Avoid It:
- Measure width, height, and depth in three places each (top, middle, bottom for width; left, centre, right for height).
- Use the smallest measurement to size your door.
- Don’t forget to measure the swing direction and clearance space.
- Ignoring the Level and Plumb
The Mistake: Installing the door frame without ensuring it’s level, plumb (vertically straight), and square.
Why It’s a Problem: Doors that aren’t level or plumb won’t swing properly, may rub against the frame, or may not close at all.
How to Avoid It:
- Use a spirit level or laser level throughout the process.
- Shim the door frame as needed to keep it square and straight.
- Don’t rush! Double-check after each adjustment.
- Over or Under-Shimming
The Mistake: Using too many or too few shims or placing them unevenly.
Why It’s a Problem: Can cause bowing in the door frame, leading to misalignment or structural stress.
How to Avoid It:
- Place shims at hinge locations and latch points for proper support.
- Always balance shims on both sides of the frame.
- Trim excess shim material cleanly before sealing.
- Incorrect Hinge Placement
The Mistake: Misaligning or unevenly spacing hinges or using the wrong size screws.
Why It’s a Problem: Hinges control how smoothly your door opens and closes. If they’re misaligned, the door can sag or bind.
How to Avoid It:
- Pre-mark and pre-drill your hinge placements.
- Use screws long enough to bite into the framing, not just the jamb.
- If you’re reusing old hinges, make sure they’re not worn out or mismatched.
- Skipping the Insulation and Sealant
The Mistake: Failing to insulate around the door frame or skipping caulking and weatherstripping.
Why It’s a Problem: Drafts, water intrusion, and heat loss can result from unsealed gaps around the frame.
How to Avoid It:
- Fill gaps between the frame and the rough opening with low-expansion spray foam or backer rod + insulation.
- Apply high-quality exterior caulking around the trim.
- Add or replace weatherstripping for a tight seal.
- Forgetting About Threshold and Sill Prep
The Mistake: Not prepping or levelling the sill before installing an exterior door.
Why It’s a Problem: Water intrusion and air leaks often start at the bottom if the threshold isn’t sealed and sloped properly.
How to Avoid It:
- Ensure the subfloor or sill area is flat, clean, and sloped outward.
- Apply waterproof flashing or sill pans as an added layer of protection.
- Use a bead of caulking under the threshold before setting the door in place.
- Leave It to the Pros
DIY door installation might seem doable, but the truth is, door replacement is not a one-size-fits-all undertaking. From unique sizing and specialty materials to sealing and alignment, there are numerous variables that demand experience and attention to detail.
At Arcana Windows & Doors, our door installation services are designed to eliminate the guesswork. Whether it’s a traditional upgrade or if you are seeking more custom door services, our team will ensure a smooth, secure, and energy-efficient fit every time.
If you are in southern Ontario (Hamilton, Dundas, Guelph, Burlington, Mississauga, Oakville, Brantford, Kitchener, Grimsby, St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, or surrounding communities), or eastern Ontario (Hawkesbury, Vankleek Hill, Alexandria, or surrounding communities) contact us today to learn more about our doors (or any other custom installation services we provide), and schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
Backed by our knowledge and experience, we’ll help you find the perfect solution. What’s more, you’ll avoid the stress and uncertainty of taking on a project that genuinely benefits from a professional touch. After all, at Arcana, our ambition is to deliver style, comfort, and satisfaction by providing exceptional products and personalized service for your home or office.
