It’s the main way in and our of your home, taking daily wear and tear. But the last thing you need is to be rushing out the door for work or the school run, only to find it won’t open properly.

That’s why it’s important to keep an eye on your front door’s condition and know when it’s reaching the end of its lifespan. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the top 5 signs it might be time to start looking for a new one.

1. Visible damage

Probably the most obvious if you start to notice visible damage on your front door, then it’s time to replace it. This damage could include rusty hinges, rotten wood, splits in the panels, cracks, or other marks or dents.

Your front door is one of the first places an intruder will start so it needs to be structurally sound. If there is a large crack or dent in the door, likelihood is, it will be much easier for an intruder to break in.

Additionally, if you notice that the hinges are starting to rust, this should be your first sign to take action. A rusty hinge could cause many issues with trying to open and close your door, which you don’t want.

2. Loose frame

Doors expand and loosen over time. That’s natural, especially if your door is made of wood. However, what’s not normal, is a sudden gap or hugely loose frame when you aren’t expecting it.

A loose frame could be a serious problem. Not only can it compromise your home’s security – making it easier for intruders to gain access – but it also opens the door to a range of other issues. Gaps around the frame can let in damp, drafts and cold air, while your heating escapes, making your home less energy-efficient and more expensive to keep warm.

If you notice your door frame feels loose or unstable, it’s time to start thinking about a replacement – sooner rather than later.

3. Draughts

Similarly to a loose frame, draughts can wreak havoc on your heating bills. They’re harder to notice than gaps in the frame, but if you notice that your home is colder than it used to be, you should check your door.

If you’re unsure if there’s a draught coming from your front door, we recommend checking to see if light is coming through the door frame. If light can get through, so can the cold and the rain.

Another top tip: place a candle carefully in front of your front door. If it flickers, you know there’s a draught.

4. Lack of soundproofing

Another tell-tale sign that it’s time for a new door, is a decrease in soundproofing. Your door’s job is to protect your home from the outside, and that includes blocking out any noise. If you notice that noise is coming through a lot louder than it used to, it may be another great sign that it’s time for a new front door.

5. It keeps sticking or jamming

And maybe the no brainer of door warning signs, if your door keeps sticking or jamming, then it’s probably time to invest in a new door. Homeowners keep their doors on average for 20-30 years, and after daily use the hinges will start to decay. This causes sticking and jamming, and the best thing you can do is replace your door.

Need some help?

We get that looking for a new door can feel very overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help. We want to make sure you choose a door that you’ll love, so contact us today to discuss what your best options are.

We have a variety of brochures that you can look through for more information, so you can visualise what your door could look like.

And, to see how much a new door could cost, contact us today for a free quote. Obligation free.

Happy door shopping!