7 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Front Door
Introduction
Your front door is the first thing people see when they come to your home — it says a lot about your style, but it’s also supposed to protect you from the weather, keep your house secure, and help manage your energy bills.
If your door is starting to look a little tired or act up (sticking, letting cold air in, or just not locking like it used to), it might be more than just a nuisance — it could be time for an upgrade.
Let’s walk through some of the most common signs that your front door isn’t doing its job anymore — and what you can do about it.
- There’s a Constant Draft (Especially in Winter)
You shouldn’t need a blanket just to sit near your front door. If you’re feeling cold air sneaking in during Ottawa’s long winter months (or hot air leaking in during summer), it’s likely your door has lost its seal or isn’t insulating properly anymore.
Even if the door looks fine, over time materials can shift, shrink, or wear out — especially after years of freezing and thawing.
Pro tip: If your energy bill keeps climbing, and you’ve already ruled out the windows, check the door next.
- It’s Damaged, Warped, or Just Worn Out
Let’s face it — your front door goes through a lot. Rain, snow, sunlight, humidity… not to mention daily use. Over time, all of that can cause the door to warp, crack, rust, or even rot.
Common signs:
- Splintering wood
- Rust spots or bubbling paint
- Soft or spongy areas near the bottom
These aren’t just cosmetic issues. A compromised door can make your home less secure, less efficient, and more vulnerable to water damage.
- It’s a Struggle to Open or Close
If your door is sticking, scraping the floor, or not closing fully, something is off. Maybe it’s swelling from humidity or the hinges are worn. Maybe the frame has shifted.
Whatever the reason, fighting with your door every time you come and go is a sign that it’s on its last legs.
And if the lock doesn’t feel secure anymore or takes too much force to turn? That’s not just annoying — it’s a potential safety risk.
- You See Fog or Moisture Between Glass Panels
Many modern doors include decorative or insulated glass inserts. But if you’re starting to see fog, moisture, or even ice build-up between the panes, the seal has likely failed.
What does that mean for you?
- Less insulation
- Poor visibility
- Higher risk of mold or rot
- Lower energy efficiency
Once a glass unit fails, there’s no real way to fix it properly — it’s time to replace.
- Your Energy Bill Is Higher Than Normal
Sometimes the signs aren’t visual — they show up in your wallet. If your heating or cooling costs have crept up over the last year or two, your front door could be part of the problem.
Older doors (especially original wood or metal ones without insulation) don’t hold up well in Ottawa’s climate.
A high-performance replacement door — like an insulated steel or fiberglass model — can make a noticeable difference.
- Security Feels Like a Concern
If your door feels flimsy, wobbly, or doesn’t shut tight, you’re not imagining it — that’s a security risk. Burglars don’t need fancy tools to break into a door with a weak frame or outdated lock.
A modern front door should have:
- A solid core or steel structure
- Reinforced frames
- Multi-point locks or smart lock options
Even if you haven’t had a break-in, peace of mind is priceless.
- Your Door Just Doesn’t Match Your Home Anymore
Maybe you’ve renovated your home. Maybe you’ve painted the exterior. Maybe the door just looks tired after 15+ years.
Either way, if your front door no longer reflects the look (or value) of your home, it’s time to think about upgrading. A new door can totally change the first impression people get from your place — and that’s especially important if you’re thinking about selling.
In fact, replacing your front door is one of the highest-ROI home upgrades you can make.
When’s the Best Time to Replace a Front Door in Ottawa?
At Big City, we install windows & doors year-round — because we know that problems don’t wait for warm weather. Whether it's January or July, we’re here to help when you need it.
What to Look for in a Replacement Door
Here’s what we usually recommend for Ottawa homes:
Materials:
- Fiberglass: Durable, weather-resistant, looks like wood, low maintenance
- Steel: Secure, affordable, energy-efficient
- Wood: Beautiful but needs care — best for covered entryways
Features to consider:
- Insulated core
- Multi-point locking
- Decorative sidelights or transom windows
- Custom colours or finishes for added curb appeal
FAQs
Q: Do I need to replace the whole frame too?
A: You can replace just the door, but it’s not usually recommended. The condition of the frame plays a big role — if there’s any rot, damage, or warping, the entire unit should be replaced. Even if the frame looks okay, other important factors come into play, like hinge placement, insulation around the frame, and the type of lock system (especially if you're upgrading to a multi-point lock).
Replacing only the door without addressing the frame can lead to issues down the road — poor fit, drafts, or even compromised security. At Big City Windows & Doors, we typically recommend replacing both the door and the frame together so it’s done once, and done right.
Q: How long does installation take?
A: At Big City Windows and Doors, most door installations are typically completed within half a day to a full day, depending on the project’s complexity. We’ll book a convenient time and make sure your home is protected during install.
Q: Will this mess up my entryway?
A: Not at all. We treat your home like it’s our own — clean, careful, and quick.
Final Thoughts
A solid front door makes a big difference in how your home feels, looks, and performs. If you’re dealing with drafts, damage, or just know something isn’t right — trust your gut.
Replacing your front door isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade — it’s an investment in comfort, security, and energy savings.
Live in Ottawa and think it might be time to replace your front door?
At Big City Windows & Doors, we specialize in high-quality door replacements for Ottawa homeowners. From expert consultations to professional installation, we’re here to help you make the right choice for your home.
Ready to upgrade your front entrance? Contact Big City Windows & Doors today for a free consultation and quote.