Door Dealers and Installers

What kind of services do door dealers provide?

Door dealers are responsible for a variety of services, including door installation, replacement, door repair and custom door design. If you need a new door, door dealers will help you determine what kind you need, as well as shape, color, size and more. From barn doors to French doors to front doors, these professionals can help you choose, install and maintain your door investments.

What are some common door materials?

There are four types of common materials used for doors.

Wood doors are beautiful, versatile and tend to be the most popular choice for both interior and exterior doors; they are easy to custom build, and include oak, cherry, walnut, mahogany, maple, fir and pine. Some standard wood doors have MDF cores wrapped in wood veneers, which minimizes the chances of warping as real wood expands when wet and contracts when dry. If your heart is set on a wood door but you think the climate might cause it to warp, talk to your door professional about a furniture-grade veneered door.

Steel doors are durable and resilient; for security purposes, you just can’t beat steel. An affordable choice, steel doors insulate well and will neither crack or warp, although they can be dented.

Aluminum doors have an insulated core and come in a variety of colors and finishes. With a baked-on enamel finish, they won’t rust or need repainting, and many come with a 20-year warranty. Next to wood they are the most expensive and have to be custom-made. A door dealer can help you find a reputable aluminum door manufacturer.

Fiberglass composite doors are a good choice for coastal homes. Tough and virtually maintenance free, fiberglass composite looks like wood and can even be stained to match woodwork. Made to last, these well-insulated doors are ideal for front entries as they can stand up to harsh and humid climates.

Questions to ask a prospective door dealer and installer:

• How long have you been in the business?
  
• How many projects like mine have you completed?
  
• Can you provide me with references?
  
• How do you charge, and what does that include?
  
• Can you give me a written estimate?
  
• Do you complete free, in-home evaluations?
  
• What do your services include?
  
• Can I supply my own materials?
  
• When can this job get done?
  
• What happens when the cost exceeds the budget? What about changes to materials or labor pricing?
  
• What will I need to provide?
  
• Are there any important considerations or concerns you foresee with this project?
  

Find door dealers and installers on Houzz. Look in the Professionals section of our website and search for door dealers and installers. Read reviews, look at project photos and see how a pro can help with your home improvement project.