Planning a hassle free door installation in Kennesaw, GA? Great move. A new door can enhance security and elevate your home's curb appeal. But don’t rush it. Many homeowners slip up during install. These slip-ups can waste your time, drain your wallet, and cause unnecessary stress. Let’s walk through the most common ones—so you can dodge them.

1. Wrong Measurements

Let’s start with the biggest one. Many folks think every door comes in the same size. They’re not. Even if two doors look alike, the space around them may not be. Small gaps? Too tight? Either way, the door won’t sit right.

Use a proper tape. Measure the width. Then height. Then the depth of the frame. Measure twice. Cut once. That’s the golden rule. Doors should fit snug but not too tight. If the gap is too wide, drafts sneak in. If it’s too tight, the door sticks or scrapes. Either one is bad news.

2. Ignoring the Frame

Frames matter more than you think. Many people focus only on the door itself. But if the frame is warped, cracked, or weak, your door won’t work right. You might hang a new door on an old frame. It may shut okay. But over time, the trouble starts. Gaps grow. Hinges loosen. Locks misalign. Before a new door installation in Kennesaw, always check the frame. Replace it if needed. Don’t try to “make it work.” You’ll regret it later.

3. Skipping the Weather Seal

A door isn’t just wood and hardware—it’s your home’s shield from the outside. Skip the seal, and your door lets in wind, rain, and bugs. Weather seals block moisture and help hold heat in. That saves on energy bills. It also keeps your house quieter. Always use high-grade weather strips. And check them twice a year. Seals wear down over time. They peel or shrink. Replace them when needed. It’s a simple tweak that goes a long way.

4. Using Cheap Hinges or Screws

You can have the best door on the block—but if the hardware is cheap, it won’t last. Hinges carry the full weight of your door. Cheap screws strip easy. Hinges bend or snap. Use stainless steel or brass. Go with long screws—at least 3 inches. That gives better hold into the wall stud.

Also, check screw placement. If they’re too close to the edge, the wood may crack. Space them evenly. Tighten them just enough—not too loose, not too tight.

5. Not Hiring a Pro

DIY is great—until it’s not. Doors need to be plumb, level, and square. One wrong angle, and the door drags. Or worse, won’t shut at all.

Many people try to save cash. They skip hiring help. But they often end up calling a pro later to fix it anyway. That costs more in the long run.

If you're unsure, it’s smart to call a pro for new door installation in Kennesaw. They’ll bring the right tools and know-how to do the job right the first time.

FAQs

1. Why does my new door feel heavier than my old one?

Many modern doors use solid cores or insulation layers for better durability. Old doors were often hollow or made with thinner panels. Extra weight adds strength—but also needs better hinges.

2. Can I re-use my old door frame for a new door?

Only if it’s in perfect shape. Frames weaken over time. Even a small warp or crack can mess with alignment. Reusing may seem easy, but it can backfire fast.

3. Why does my door squeak even after install?

It’s usually from low-quality hinges or a slight misalignment. Also, check for dry spots. A small drop of oil or adjusting the screws might fix it.

4. How do I know if my door is level?

Place a bubble level across the top edge. If the bubble sits dead center, it’s level. If not, you may need to adjust the shims or re-hang it.

5. Why does cold air still get in after new install?

Likely gaps at the bottom or sides. Also, check the threshold and weather stripping. Even tiny gaps can let cold air sneak in.

Final Thoughts

Avoid these common door install mistakes, and you’ll save yourself a ton of hassle. A proper fit, sturdy hardware, and solid frame make all the difference. For those wanting hassle free door installation in Kennesaw, GA, these steps are your cheat sheet. Don’t take shortcuts. Get it right the first time.

We handle every job with care and skill. If you're planning a new door installation in Kennesaw, we're the team to call. We make the process simple, smooth, and strong. Let's get your door done right—reach out today.