If you are a do-it-yourselfer, you may enjoy handling most home projects on your own. However, when it comes to a door installation, it is best to hire a professional. Here are four reasons you should have a professional contractor handle the installation of your new doors:

1. Appropriate Door Selection

Selecting the proper door to meet your needs can be a daunting task if you don't know how to match the product to your needs. The appearance of a door is important, but the functionality of the door is just as significant. New door materials, such as fiberglass, wood and metal, can respond to environmental conditions differently. It is best to have a professional contractor help you select the most appropriate door for the installation.

2. Proper Fit

It's easy to miscalculate a measurement, especially if you are not accustomed to door installations. Nevertheless, a slight error can cause your door not to fit properly. If the door fits too snugly, you can incur damage to your door frame and the adjacent wall. Likewise, if the fit of the door is not tight enough, your door can be surrounded by gaps that sacrifice the energy efficiency of your home.

3. Door Replacement Cost

An attractive, new door can be expensive. Nevertheless, you may have to replace your new door before it is even in place if you damage it during installation.  Most warranties are only valid if a product is professionally installed. Thus, the manufacturer may not offer a free replacement.

4. Safety

Lots of mishaps can occur during a door installation. A typical door weighs over 170 pounds, and handling it can be cumbersome. Door weights are calculated by multiplying the area of the door by the weight per square foot. You can bypass an installation accident and the accompanying medical expenses by allowing a professional to install your door. 

5. Proper Hardware Installation

Doors are usually purchased without door handles, locks or other hardware installed. Improper hardware installation can damage your new door or cause it not to lock or open properly.  Further damage can ensue if your try to correct your hardware's placement.

A door installation can appear less complicated than it really is. To avoid expensive damages, it is best to hire a professional general contractor for your door installation project. If you are planning to replace a door in your home, call an experienced contractor like Welty Custom Exteriors, Inc today.