8 Things Door Suppliers Want You to Avoid When Replacing Doors

Are you considering replacing your doors? It might seem simple. But there’s more to it than just picking one you like. Surrey door suppliers say many people rush into it and regret their choices later. Some common mistakes can cost you time and money, whether replacing an entry, bedroom, or patio door. So, let’s dive into eight mistakes Surrey door suppliers often see—and how to avoid them. These tips will help you make a smart, stress-free choice.

Measurement Mistakes Even Surrey Door Suppliers Can Make

“Measure twice, order once.” That’s a rule every door installer lives by. Getting the right size matters more than you think. A door that’s half an inch off won’t fit right. If it’s too small, you’ll get drafts. Too big? It won’t close properly.

Tips to measure correctly:

• Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom.
• Check the height on both sides.
• Measure the depth of the frame, too.

Many people only measure once—or guess. That’s risky. Even a small mistake can mean starting over. 60% of door returns happen due to wrong measurements. Always double-check your numbers. If you’re unsure, ask a pro to help. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Ignoring Local Climate

Not every door is built for every weather. Surrey’s climate has rainy days and chilly nights, so you’ll want a door that can handle moisture and temperature swings. That’s why it’s important to work with experienced Surrey door suppliers—they know which materials can handle local conditions. If you pick the wrong material, it may warp, crack, or fade—leading to higher bills and more repairs.

 Best materials for Surrey weather:

• Fiberglass: Stands up to moisture and doesn’t rot.
• Steel: Strong and secure but may rust if not treated.
• Wood: Classic look but needs care to prevent swelling.

Choose wisely, and your door will last for years.

Overlooking Energy Efficiency

Your door isn’t just for looks. It’s also part of your home’s insulation. A cheap, hollow door can let heat escape. That means cold winters and high energy bills. So, look for doors with a good R-value (resistance to heat flow). The higher the number, the better the insulation. Surrey door suppliers can help you choose energy-efficient options that keep your home comfortable and your utility costs down.

What to look for:

• Weatherstripping to seal gaps
• Double or triple-glazed glass if it has windows
• Foam-filled cores for better insulation

A well-insulated door can cut heating costs by 10–15%. And don’t skimp here. The savings add up fast.

Forgetting About Security

We all want to feel safe at home. Yet, many people choose doors based only on looks. Also, a weak door or cheap lock can be a target for break-ins.

 Features that boost safety:

• Solid core or steel doors
• Multi-point locking systems
• Reinforced frames and hinges

Ask yourself: Can this door handle a hard push? Does it come with secure hardware? Peace of mind is worth it.

Picking Style Over Function

It’s easy to fall in love with a pretty door. But not all doors fit all homes. Some styles don’t match the layout or swing the wrong way. Furthermore, that causes daily frustration.

Check these before you choose:

• In-swing or out-swing?
• Left-hand or right-hand opening?
• Will it block furniture or hallways?

The wrong swing direction is one of the top complaints in door replacements. Yes, style matters. But a door should also be easy to use and fit your space perfectly.

Not Checking Building Codes

Before you hit “buy,” make sure your door meets local rules. Moreover, many places, including Surrey, have building codes covering fire safety and egress (escape routes).

Common code checks:

• Entry doors must be a certain width.
• Basement or bedroom doors need escape access.
• Fire-rated doors for garages or shared walls.

Ignoring codes can delay your project or cause legal issues. Always check before you buy.

Doing DIY When You Shouldn’t

We love a good DIY project. But replacing a door isn’t always beginner-friendly. It involves cutting, leveling, and sealing—skills that take practice. Many people try to save money by doing it themselves. But if it’s done wrong, it can lead to gaps, leaks, or structural damage. That’s why many homeowners turn to Surrey door suppliers who offer professional installation or trusted guidance to ensure the job is done right the first time.

When to call a pro:

• You’re replacing an exterior door.
• You need to move or adjust the frame.
• The door is custom-sized or heavy.

Unless you’ve done it before, consider hiring someone. Furthermore, you’ll save time and avoid costly mistakes.

Choosing the Cheapest Option

It’s tempting to pick the lowest price. After all, who doesn’t want to save? But with doors, cheaper often means lower quality. Thin materials, poor hardware, or bad insulation may cost less now but more later. Trusted Surrey door suppliers can help you understand the real value behind each option—not just the sticker price.

Budget smart, not cheap:
• Compare the lifespan of materials.
• Factor in energy savings.
• Consider long-term maintenance costs.

Spend a little more upfront; your door will last longer, work better, and save you money in the long r

Final Thoughts 

Replacing a door may seem easy, but small mistakes can cause problems later. Measuring right, picking strong and weather-ready doors is important, and thinking about safety and energy savings. Don’t just choose a door because it looks nice or costs less. Take your time and plan well. Choosing the right door from Surrey door suppliers can make your home feel safer and more comfortable. You’ll save money and stress by avoiding the common mistakes shared here. A good door is more than just an entry—it’s part of your happy home.