How often should I replace my front door?

It’s a question homeowners often ask — how long should a good front door actually last?
The answer depends on the material, installation quality, and exposure to weather, but there are clear signs that tell you when it might be time for an upgrade.

Here’s what to look for — and why replacing your front door can be one of the best home improvements you’ll ever make.

1. How long does a front door last?

Every material has its own lifespan:

• Composite doors: 20–30 years on average, thanks to their solid core and weather-resistant outer skin.

• Aluminium doors: Can last 40 years or more when maintained — they don’t warp, swell, or fade easily.

• uPVC doors: Typically around 20 years, though they can discolour and lose rigidity over time.

• Timber doors: Beautiful and strong, but they need regular painting or staining to prevent warping — expect around 25 years with good care.

A well-installed, high-quality door can easily outperform these averages — especially when fitted correctly and maintained regularly.

2. Signs your door needs replacing

You don’t need a professional inspection to spot the signs — just a little attention. Watch out for:

• Draughts or water leaks around the frame

• Difficulty locking or closing the door smoothly

• Warping or soft spots in timber

• Condensation inside the glass panel

• Peeling, fading, or cracking on the surface

• Noise and poor insulation compared to newer doors

If you’re constantly touching up paint, replacing seals, or feeling the chill, it’s usually more cost-effective to invest in a new, energy-efficient door.

3. Why upgrading is worth it

Replacing your front door isn’t just about looks — it’s about performance.
Modern doors offer:

• Far better insulation (U-values as low as 0.8 W/m²K)

• Enhanced security with multipoint locking systems

• Improved noise reduction

• Low-maintenance finishes that last decades

• Custom design options so you can match your home’s style perfectly

An upgraded door can even increase your home’s kerb appeal and resale value, especially when it’s a premium model like our Palladio or aluminium collections.

4. How to make your door last longer

Once your new door is fitted, a little care goes a long way:

• Wipe the surface occasionally with mild soapy water.

• Lubricate hinges and locks once or twice a year.

• Keep the threshold area clean and free from debris.

• Re-silicone if you ever notice cracks or gaps.

Regular maintenance keeps your investment looking and performing like new for years.

Final thoughts

There’s no fixed “expiry date” for a front door — but if yours is letting in draughts, sticking, or simply looks tired, it’s probably time.

At Home Build Doors, we make replacement easy — with high-performance aluminium, composite, and timber-effect designs you can customise and visualise online before you buy.

In short:
A quality front door should last decades, but knowing when to replace it ensures your home stays warm, secure, and efficient — exactly as it should.