Door Companies for Exterior Door Replacement

A new front door can make your home safer, quieter and more energy efficient, and it's one of the most noticeable upgrades you can make to your home's curb appeal.

But the door itself is only part of the project. Choosing the right local door company, and getting the installation done properly, matters just as much as the style you pick. This guide explains how to find door companies in your area, how to compare entry door brands and materials, what a professional replacement involves, and what to ask before you sign.

Why Work With a Local Door Company

Big-box stores sell doors, but local door companies often handle the whole job, from measuring and ordering to installation and finishing.

Working with a local company can mean:

Accurate measuring, so the new door fits your opening and seals properly
Installation by experienced crews who handle framing, sills, weatherstripping and trim
Access to brands and options you might not find in a store
One point of contact for warranty questions and service later

Comparing Entry Door Brands

Several manufacturers specialize in exterior and entry doors, including established names such as Pease, Therma-Tru, Pella, Andersen, ProVia and Masonite. Many local door companies carry one or more of these brands. When comparing brands, look at:

The materials and styles each brand offers
Energy efficiency ratings and glass options
Warranty length and what it covers, including finish and hardware
Whether local installers are certified or authorized for that brand, which can affect the warranty

Choosing a Door Material

Steel doors are strong, secure and usually the most affordable, but they can dent and may rust if scratched.
Fiberglass doors resist dents, warping and weather, and can mimic the look of wood with less upkeep.
Wood doors offer a classic look but need regular finishing and can warp in harsh weather.

Glass inserts, sidelights and transoms let in light, while multi-point locks and reinforced frames add security.

What an Exterior Door Replacement Involves

In-home consultation and measuring to confirm size, swing direction and condition of the frame.
Ordering the door, which can take a few weeks for custom sizes, colors or glass.
Removing the old door, and if needed, the frame.
Installing the new door, including leveling, shimming, insulating, sealing and installing the threshold and trim.
Final adjustments so the door closes smoothly and locks securely.

A "pre-hung" door, which comes already mounted in its own frame, often gives a tighter seal than fitting a new slab into an old frame.

Questions to Ask Door Companies in Your Area

Are you licensed and insured, and how long have you installed doors?
Which brands do you carry, and are your installers certified for them?
Does the quote include removal, disposal, trim, painting or staining, and hardware?
What warranties cover the door and the installation?
How long will the order and installation take?
Can you show photos or references from recent jobs?

Get two or three written quotes so you can compare the same door, materials and scope of work.

Planning Other Home Updates

If you're refreshing other parts of your home, our guide to pay monthly kitchen cabinets explains ways to spread out costs, and our practical guide to bathroom vanities covers another popular upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to replace an exterior door?

Installation often takes a few hours to a day, but ordering a custom door can take several weeks.

Should I replace the frame too?

If the frame is damaged, rotted or out of square, replacing it with a pre-hung door usually gives a better seal and longer life.

What's the best material for a front door?

Fiberglass is a popular choice for durability and low maintenance, steel for security and value, and wood for a traditional look.

Prices, products and warranties vary by company and manufacturer. Get written quotes before hiring an installer.