"Glad that I reached out to Kelci, she’s been nothing but helpful and responsive from our initial phone call. Definite repeat customer here. Found good help for a good price and recommend her to anyone. She’s stepped up exceeding my expectations of being able to help out with moving into new home & helping organize as well as Top Notch cleaning services."
"David is wonderful. He did a terrific job on a house with many windows on various levels. I have recommended him to my neighbors and will use him again this coming summer."
Barn doors do not always require a bottom track, especially if a high-quality top track is used to stabilize the door. However, a bottom track is often recommended to ensure the door operates smoothly, prevent it from scratching the floor, and keep it from pushing inward or outward, which could cause damage. A bottom track also keeps the door more secure and properly anchored. In some cases, an interior barn door can hang solely from a top track without a bottom guide. If you do install a bottom track, it should be placed six to eight inches from the floor and be at least twice as wide as the door.
WD-40 can temporarily silence a squeaky door hinge, but it is not recommended as a long-term solution. While it is effective at breaking down rust and grime, it contains very little lubricant and evaporates quickly. Using WD-40 can also attract dirt and dust to the hinges, which may cause more wear and tear over time. For a more lasting fix, after cleaning the hinge, apply a true lubricant. Better options include silicone spray, white lithium grease, metal or plastic lubricants, or oil-based products like petroleum jelly.
Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.
There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.
It’s possible to install a door yourself if the wall opening already exists, but the work is rather complicated, and a professional installation is usually well worth the investment. For your door to work and close properly, you’ll need to shim and level the door frame in your wall perfectly, which can be difficult. Additionally, we recommend you always hire a professional door installer to place an exterior door, as mistakes during the installation process can lead to poor security for your home.
While both sides of a front door should get painted for aesthetic reasons, you don’t have to do each side at the same time. As a matter of fact, you’ll probably want a different paint type and color for the interior section of the door than the exterior side. Consider each side of the door your personal canvas and make the paint match any nearby decor.
The Dillingham, AK homeowners’ guide to door services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Whether you’re installing a new door or replacing an existing one, the cost of door installation varies based on location, door type, framing needs, and other factors.
Are you looking to upgrade an old door in your home? Use this interior door installation cost guide to estimate the project's total cost and learn how to save.
When installing a new door, it’s important to make sure you follow the right steps for function and safety. Keep this door installation checklist handy.
