6 Ways To Protect Your Entry Door From the Hot Summer Sun

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Everybody knows the signs of sunburn, but homeowners should also become familiar with the signs of sun and heat damage to their front door before summer makes any potential problems worse. Our warm weather months here in southeastern Wisconsin may be brief, but they easily last long enough to take a toll on your entry door, affecting the look of your home, reducing energy efficiency and even damaging your door locks and impacting your security.


Start taking protective measures now before those 80- and 90-degree days return. Your home, energy bills and family will benefit from any of these simple steps.

Start With Security—Summer Heat Can Compromise Door Locks

Wood doors are especially susceptible to this problem, as they expand more than others in the summer heat and humidity. When an entry door exposed to intense heat expands, its lock can become difficult to turn; it might even get stuck in one position. Within the lock mechanism itself, high temperatures can dry out the lubricant necessary for the proper operation. Consider applying a lubricant to the lock as part of regular maintenance.

Apply a UV-Resistant Finish

Direct summer sunlight exposes your entry door to harmful UV rays. Without protection, these UV rays can warp and crack the door while also fading the color. Using a UV-resistant finish on your entry door protects it with a barrier that filters out the damaging rays. Keep that protection fresh by cleaning your door regularly and occasionally reapplying the finish.

Create Shade With an Awning

Another option adds an attractive look to your home while adding protection. A weather-resistant canopy or awning designed for the outdoors adds shade to your entryway, minimizing heat buildup by the door and, of course, blocking those harmful UV rays from the sun.

Care for the Windows in Your Entry Door

Any glass in your door will experience damage from extended exposure to hot summer sun. Window film with UV protection is an effective way to ensure protective measures extend to all parts of the door. These special films do more than just block UV rays, though. They are transparent and help prevent fading and discoloration in the glass. Crucially, they also help improve energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer.

Keep Up Routine Maintenance

Direct summer sunlight exposes your entry door to harmful UV rays. Without protection, these UV rays can warp and crack the door while also fading the color. Using a UV-resistant finish on your entry door protects it with a barrier that filters out the damaging rays. Keep that protection fresh by cleaning your door regularly and occasionally reapplying the finish.

Keeping Your Entry Door Energy Efficient

Proper ventilation throughout your house is a simple way to maintain energy efficiency and also preserve your entry door. Keep your interior doors open during the summer, so air will circulate better throughout your home. This prevents trapped heat from building up at the front door, because trapped hot air by your entry door can damage it.

Identify When It’s Time To Replace an Entry Door

Other than obvious signs of damage or a dated entry door, try these easy safety checks for compromised energy efficiency that’s costing you money.

  • Slide a dollar bill under the door. If it moves freely, you likely have air infiltrating your home.
  • Wet your hand on a cool or windy day and pass it along the edges of your entry door. If you feel cool air or a breeze, it’s another sign air is leaking in and out of your home.

A new, energy-efficient door can cut your costs and increase comfort, which goes a long way in the summer heat, but especially during our cold Wisconsin winters! We’ll help you get started with all the options available to make a new entry door look and function exactly how you need it to.

What You Need to Know About Patio Door Replacement

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With summer fast approaching, you’re probably excited to spend more time on your patio. After a long, chilly Midwestern winter, you’re ready to open your sliding patio doors and let in that fresh air…

But like many homeowners in Southeastern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois, you may discover your patio door isn’t working quite as smoothly as you’d like. You wrestle to slide it open; it goes off track. You worry about the locking mechanism and jam a broom handle in the bottom. You notice air seeps in, and the seal doesn’t keep out the cold in the winter.

Bad patio doors become the bane of a homeowner’s existence. It’s a constant struggle that can really impact your comfort and safety. If this sounds like you, it’s time to consider patio door replacement. Weather Tight is ready to help!

A three-panel patio door is shown with wood-toned trim. The French-style doors open from a dining area to an outdoor deck.

5 Signs It’s Time for Patio Door Replacement

The most obvious sign of a patio door problem is one that “jumps the track” every time you slide it open. Generally, the difficulty extends to the screen, too. Screen doors are often the nemesis of a patio door owner. The door works somewhat correctly, but the screen gets stuck, feels flimsy, and is tricky to open.

Enjoying your home is less convenient when your patio door is difficult to use. If you need to walk all the way around your house to get to your patio, that’s a significant (and annoying) problem. Of course, there are a few other common issues with patio doors, too. Whether you decide on French doors or sliding glass doors, there are a variety of options that feature easy operation and improved energy efficiency. 

Wondering if you need a new door? Here are 5 signs it’s time to consider replacement patio doors. 

1. Your Patio Door Has Fogged Glass

People approach us often, saying, “I think my door is fine, but the glass is all fogged up.” Unfortunately, this is usually a sign the seal around the door is shot. Fogging is different from normal window condensation; it typically appears (and stays) trapped between panes of glass. Not only is fogged glass unsightly, but it’s also a sign that moisture is leaking between glass panes. You’re getting heat loss and other issues.

When a Weather Tight expert comes out, they’ll examine your door. We’ve seen circumstances where the door is fine, and there’s simply a problem with the glass (in which case, we’ll refer you to a glass replacement specialist who will fix the glass easily). Most of the time, however, fogged glass is an indicator of bigger issues with the patio door.

2. You See Mildew and Discoloration Around the Patio Door Seal and Floor

Another common concern with patio doors—especially in the spring when warmth and moisture come in—is mildew along the sealing around the glass. A tale-tale sign is discoloration on the floor near the door. Here in the Midwest, moisture seepage is a big issue thanks to those icy winters.

Most older patio doors were built with an aluminum track. Unfortunately, this type of track isn’t ideal for cold weather, especially if there’s a patio or deck leading up to the patio door. Snow and ice build right up around the door itself. Aluminum conducts the cold, and you’ll see it ice melt, refreeze, and rot around the door.

How do you know when it’s time to replace your patio door? Learn more about patio door replacement with this video!

 

 

3. Ants are Marching in Your Home

Another (frustrating) sign that patio door replacement is needed? Ants marching in your home. Often, small spaces form when the seal around the patio door doesn’t close tightly due to rot (or because you’ve had to force the door open and closed, misshaping it). These spaces are perfect for letting in ants and other pests. Even worse, we’ve seen many situations where we take out a door to discover ants have eaten away the substructure, knee wall, and wall below it. You often can’t see the damage until it’s quite far along.

If ants can get in and out of your home, cold air is getting inside in the winter as well. You’re likely experiencing heat loss around your poorly sealed patio door. While the screen is great for letting in the breeze during the summer months, you may also be overworking your air conditioner when you close the door because the door is no longer airtight.

4. You Need a Broom Handle to “Lock” Your Patio Door

One of the biggest dangers homeowners face with old patio doors is security. Unfortunately, older doors don’t close or lock properly. The cheap patio door hardware becomes less effective over time. Often, when you’ve had to shake and wiggle the door to get it on track, you’ve also made the door looser and easier to jimmy open. If someone wants to get in, they’ll wiggle the door hard enough to free it of the single, short lock.

Many homeowners mitigate this problem by getting out their trusty broom handles. We’ve heard more than one instance of the broom handle accidentally falling on the track and locking the homeowner out! Intruders, on the other hand, won’t hesitate to use a screwdriver to easily pop up the broom handle or wooden bar and get right in.

Our replacement patio doors feature an ultra-secure multipoint locking system—the door locks in three locations along the frame. Instead of using short screws to secure the door, we use longer screws that go all the way into the door frame. This system ensures you can put away your broom handle and feel safe because there’s no way to break the door open by wiggling it.

5. Your Door Is Difficult to Open or Has to Be Forced

Again, the most common complaint is difficulty opening patio doors. What happens when a homeowner can’t open their patio door (especially in the summer when it’s used all the time)? They wiggle it around. They wrestle with the door. They force it open and closed. The door gets bent, and the frame no longer fits into the track.

There’s no reason to feel bad about forcing your patio door open too often. The truth is that older patio doors were poorly made. The wheels lock up, and they jump off track. The flimsy screens get easily bent and become unusable. It’s a serious pain in the neck.

Replacement patio doors from Weather Tight feature screens hung like barn doors—from the top using a rail. Instead of bearing weight, the screens are suspended from a monorail on the top. They slide easily and more consistently. They don’t get bound up in the track or become misshapen from being wiggled around. Many homeowners can’t believe how much easier it is to slide the new patio doors open and close and securely lock them when needed.

If you prefer, you can also consider French patio doors. These entry doors maximize natural light and feature many design options to match your interior and exterior colors. Beautiful patio doors make a huge difference. The best patio doors are easy to open and secure when they close.

Choose from an array of hardware options for your new sliding patio door. You’ll have the peace of mind that the door has superior strength and is made for colder climates. If your existing patio door isn’t up to par, a new door will enhance your living space, give you an added level of security, and let you enjoy easy access to your backyard or patio. 

Get ready to enjoy summer with a beautiful, easy-to-use, secure patio door—give us a call! Our Weather Tight experts are happy to schedule a consultation to assess your current door and patio door replacement needs. New doors will help you step outside with ease and enjoy the season on your patio. Don’t let another summer go by while you wrestle with your patio door!

How a MultiPoint Door Lock System Keeps Your Home Safe & Comfortable

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Most people don’t think about our door locks very often. Typically, at night you might turn the knob or door level, flip the deadbolt system, and head to bed. You sleep soundly, expecting a standard door and lock to keep your family safe.

But is your current door-locking system really keeping your house safe and secure? Here’s what you should know about the peace of mind a multipoint door lock system can bring.

An exterior entryway is shown with a frosted glass door and two sidelight windows. The home is a grey-toned sage green with natural stonework and off-white trim.

A Question of Your Home’s Security

Of course, break-ins and home invasions are nothing any of us like to worry about, but safety is an essential consideration in any entry door. After all, doors exist to protect us in our homes, to keep out bad weather, intruders, and anything else the outside world throws our way.

Here in Southeastern Wisconsin, we enjoy the relative safety of a mid-sized city like Milwaukee. Most of us feel secure in our homes, but we still prefer an extra layer of protection from the outside world. The truth is that crime can happen anywhere, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Whether it’s your front door or a side entry door, you need to know your locks are working and your door lock system will keep you, your family, and the contents of your home secure—and that’s where the Multipoint Locking System comes into play. 

If you’re considering an update to your exterior doors, here’s why you shouldn’t settle for any other lock system. The exclusive Multipoint Locking System or MPLS from Weather Tight keeps your house secure and even provides surprising additional benefits so you can relax and feel safe in the comfort of your home.

Exploring the Anatomy of a Multipoint Door Lock System

The idea behind the multipoint door lock system is simple but effective. We’ve all seen doors with several unsightly locks running up the side—a traditional deadbolt, a chain lock, the lock built into the handle…

While all those extra locking points may make a homeowner feel secure, the problem is they all lock in one spot—the center of the door. Unfortunately, with pressure or blunt force at the top or bottom of the door, a standard locking system will give way.

With the MPLS, there is one activation for three different points, creating an added layer of security. You don’t need to lock your door two or three separate times to know it’s safe and tightly secured. With one easy turn of the lock, you’ve secured your entry door on the top, the bottom, and the middle of the door frame.

The difference of a multipoint lock configuration is that it’s extremely difficult to force the locked door open, even when applying pressure to the top or bottom. A multipoint lock system ensures your home’s security and your peace of mind.

In addition to engaging the door frame at three critical points, the multipoint lock system offers several additional advantages:

  • Increased engagement to protect and maintain your entry door’s alignment and seal.
  • Integrated mishandling devices that prevent damage to the door and frame.
  • Stainless steel construction that resists corrosion. 
  • Available on most of our beautiful doors to provide longevity to your door choice and home’s appearance. 

To understand more about how a multipoint locking system works, watch this demonstration video:

Energy Efficiency: The Extra Benefit of Multipoint Locking Systems

It’s clear how the multipoint lock system adds security and safety to your home, but there’s an additional “bonus” benefit.

On top of increased security, the MPLS offers increased comfort. One of the surprising benefits of multipoint locks is that you improve the energy efficiency of your entry door. 

How? Most homeowners think standard deadbolt locks are safety measures; while they are, multipoint systems do even more. These locks keep your door closed extra tight, eliminating drafts along the entire length of the door. When the Milwaukee wind blows off Lake Michigan, you’ll appreciate the extra weather-tightness of additional locking points.

With the three locking points along the edge of the door, your exterior door is held air-tight to the frame against the weather stripping. When you put the door in a closed position, the secure seal prevents air infiltration.

Even with the most secure single-point locks, the top and bottom of an entry door often lose small amounts of air. A three-point lock creates a tighter seal to keep the cold air out and the warm air in (and in the summer, it ensures you aren’t cooling the entire outdoors).

The other surprise is that the multipoint door locks are a free upgrade we offer on many of our entry doors. It’s important to note that multipoint locking systems are not available on some types of doors, like patio doors, steel doors, and fire doors with a cement core. Some garage doors also aren’t compatible with the three-point door lock system.

But in most cases, this upgrade is available on any beautiful Weather Tight exterior door. We’ll help you ensure you’ve selected the best door lock for your situation, comfort, and the protection of your family.

Explore Your Door Options at Weather Tight

At Weather Tight, we offer an array of gorgeous exterior doors designed to fit the look, style, and feel of your home. We have many customizable options and styles, including French doors in a wide variety of colors, glass options, door hardware, and more.

Fiberglass provides the look and beauty of wood with woodgrain detail but with more durability and moisture resistance. You won’t need to paint these maintenance-free doors. They retain their original beauty for years and years with virtually no upkeep at all.

If you’re ready to upgrade your home’s look while ensuring your family’s safety, security, and comfort, a new entry door is a great place to start. With locks at three critical points to enhance security, the multipoint locking system from Weather Tight is one more great reason to consider a new door today.

Give us a call for a free estimate. Our product experts will walk you through your options and help you choose a door you’ll love.

What is a Storm Door (and Do You Need One)?

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In hot climates, storm doors are almost always a given. They let in airflow while keeping out insects and providing another layer of security for your home.

Here in Southeastern Wisconsin, we’re not subject to many tropical storms, but storm doors are still popular, especially for additional cool air in the summer. If you’re considering a new entry door for your home, here are the details about storm doors and whether or not you need one!

Front front porch of a house, with neutral siding and an all-glass storm door in front of a brown wood entry door. There are four large picture windows on the front of the house, with a wood and metal patio bench positioned in front of the windows.

What is a Storm Door?

Storm doors are a popular entry door addition for many homeowners in both new and older home entries. Variations on storm doors include screen doors and security doors—each serving a similar but slightly different purpose.

So, what does a storm door do? A storm door is a second door featuring glass panels and framework designs that protect your entry door from water, wind, and ice. Often, the glass panels include or can be swapped for screens during the summer months, offering pest-free ventilation, much like a window screen.

Storm doors may also be used as another layer of security and protection—a way to keep the door to your home open, letting in airflow while still acting as a barrier to the outside.

Storm doors also let in more light, creating a “window” rather than a solid door. Full view storm doors are like having new windows in your home entryway. They help keep small children and pets safely inside. Storm doors typically latch and lock as an extra level of security, as well. They provide another barrier and another layer of protection for your home.

The Benefits of a Storm Door

So, are storm doors always necessary? What are storm doors for? Well, the primary purpose of a storm door is to act as a backup entry door. There are many benefits of choosing a good storm door to complement the look of your new entry door. Some of the most significant benefits include:

  • Protection for your entry door from wear and tear.
  • Extra security for your home with an additional door.
  • Keeps kids and pets in.
  • Keeps bugs and pests out.
  • Allows for ventilation during warm weather and household activities.
  • Let’s in natural light.
  • The secondary door provides an extra layer of insulation from noise and cold.

That said, if you have a high-quality entry door, it will withstand the weather and maintain a beautiful appearance, even with the snow, sleet, moisture, and temperature fluctuations we get in our Wisconsin winters. Your properly installed entry door will protect your house from air infiltration, cold drafts, and noise. A good door should withstand harsh weather and increase the value of your home.

When you choose an exterior door from Weather Tight, you can trust that it will require little maintenance or upkeep. Our doors are solid, beautiful, and secure—made to hold up to the weather. A good entry door will prevent drafts and air infiltration, too.

Better still, our entry doors are available with a multipoint locking system for added protection and security. Unlike a single-point lock, multipoint locking systems keep a door nearly impenetrable.

Additionally, you can choose a door with sidelights, a transom, or a window, allowing you to let additional light into your home. We offer frosted and water glass options so you can have plenty of privacy while still enjoying the benefits of a light, bright entry.

Love the Look of a Storm Door? We Have Beautiful Options

Although you don’t need a storm door to protect your new entry door from Weather Tight, you can certainly choose to add a storm door to your home. We have gorgeous options that complement your entry door and create an eye-catching threshold. Today’s storm doors are modern and beautiful.

Explore your storm door options, including the stylish Decorator™ Series, giving your home a bespoke, designer touch. We also have beautiful options in our Deluxe™, Duraguard™, and Superview™ styles of storm doors. Our Spectrum™ Storm Doors include retractable screens, which are great for ventilation. Some styles have a mesh screen in the top half; others have a screen in both the top and the bottom.

Here in Wisconsin, airflow is one of the main benefits of a storm door. We often get quite a bit of humidity in the summer, while temperatures can remain fairly mild. Homeowners in humid climates often find themselves in that in-between stage—should we turn on the air conditioning or open the windows and doors? A storm door provides relief in warmer weather.

A storm door allows you to let in the fresh air by simply opening your entry door. Many folks like to have a storm door on their kitchen side doors, patio door, or back door, even if they don’t choose one for the front or main entry doors of their home. A storm door lets you get some cross-breeze in your home to beat the heat and save on utility bills, increasing your home’s comfort. It’s excellent for days when you’re cooking onions, garlic, or fish, too. Open up the storm door and get in some airflow.

Our storm doors feature tempered safety glass to add extra protection. You can choose the different types of hardware and handle set you like to ensure your storm door design looks flawless with the rest of your home design. Choose from a variety of colors and options. Rely on smooth operation every time with door closers that ensure your storm door is as functional and easy to use as it is attractive. A professional installation takes the worry out of storm door installation.

If you’re considering a  new entry door, be sure to ask your Weather Tight representative about the installation of storm doors. We can help you find the entry door look you’ll love for the front door, back, or side entry for your home. Our products come with some of the best warranties in the business, so there’s never any worry when you choose Weather Tight.

Roofing, Siding, or Doors? How to Prioritize Home Renovations

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At Weather Tight, we work with people across Southeastern Wisconsin on their exterior updates and renovations. It’s not uncommon to see Murphy’s Law play out—if one thing needs an update, others will follow. So, how should homeowners prioritize home renovations when everything needs an update?

If you need roofing, siding, doors, and windows, how do you choose what to do first? At Weather Tight, we’re here to help.

Image shows the exterior of a light blue home with white siding. Several trees sit nearby, with a large green lawn.

Highest Need Should Be Your Top Priority

So you’re looking at drafty windows, a door that doesn’t properly close, damaged shingles, and an aging exterior finish. How on earth do you prioritize your exterior updates?

The first way to prioritize home renovations is to look at the area of the highest need. Cosmetic updates can often wait, but updates that impact your home’s structure, function, and comfort should come first.

For example, a door might be a lower priority than drafty windows, but if the door is broken and won’t properly lock, it becomes a safety concern. Damaged siding might be a secondary concern, but a window that doesn’t close is an urgent issue.

If your home is getting older, you might find that several issues seem to crop up at once. It’s essential to consider each exterior update and its impact on your home in the long term.

Prioritize Home Renovations from the Top Down

So, what do you do if all the home projects seem urgent? How do you prioritize between roofing, siding, windows, doors, or another exterior update?

If all issues seem equally urgent, the best guideline is to work from the top down. A leaking, damaged roof can cause many structural problems with your home. You can face issues with wood rot, damage to your insulation, drywall problems, and much more. Starting with a roof update is an excellent way to protect the rest of your home from further damage.

Prioritize preventative measures such as updating gutters. Although gutters may seem like a minor investment, they play an important role in keeping water out of your home’s structure. Here in Wisconsin, we’re especially susceptible to issues like ice damming, which can exacerbate the damage to your roof and gutters.

If the roof seems like a problem that can wait, windows are another critical fix. Generally, it’s less expensive in the long run to replace all the windows at once. Financing options can help you make urgent exterior upgrades now.

Plan for the Future

Many home renovations are preventative investments in the future value of your home. For example, new siding can keep your home warmer, thanks to both a proper installation and the protective Tyvek Home Wrap underneath. Siding removal and replacement can help you discover and uncover other issues lurking underneath your old siding. It can also save you time and money with an exterior finish that requires virtually zero maintenance.

Prioritizing updates might look a bit different if you plan to sell your home soon. A beautiful front door, an eye-catching exterior finish, or quality replacement windows can help you fetch a better price and really add curb appeal.

Likewise, updates to the windows and roof can save you in the bargaining stage, when homebuyers might request that you include them in the price anyway. If your home has any damage, it’s essential to address it before putting it on the market.

If you’re planning on living in your home for the foreseeable future, it’s still crucial to address home updates with an eye to the years ahead. You may assume that putting plastic on the windows every October or wrestling with your sliding door is a hassle you’re willing to live with. But so many homeowners are shocked at how much their updates change their enjoyment of their homes. We almost always hear, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”

Investing in your home is wise. It will help you feel more comfortable, happier, and prouder of your house. It will also keep you from sleepless nights spent worrying about your leaking roof or unlocked windows. You won’t need to deal with wood rot or damaged insulation down the road.

What’s more, home renovations can save you a lot of money. Many updates lower your energy bills by improving the ventilation in your home. New windows prevent air infiltration and leakage. A properly installed roof will help your house stay warm in the winter and allow the house to breathe with a soffit and venting. Siding will also add more insulation and improved weather protection. New doors and windows also help your family stay secure and safe—a priceless priority.

No matter the exterior updates your home needs, it’s important to make sure you’re prioritizing and planning to take care of them. If you need guidance and help deciding, please reach out today. Our representatives can help assess which areas of your home have the greatest need for updates, so you can get them taken care of.

At Weather Tight, we know that our best customers are satisfied, repeat customers. We’ll work hard to earn your business, whether it’s for one small update or an entire exterior remodel. Reach out today to discover the difference that exterior updates can make to the comfort and beauty of your home.

Weather Tight Case Study: Uncovering Hidden Issues with a Patio Door

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Here at Weather Tight, we’re proud to work with our friends, family, and neighbors here in Wisconsin. We understand the unique needs of our area (and weather systems) and work to ensure that every product and installation meets those needs.

Because of Wisconsin’s often moisture-heavy climate, we can face some unique issues in our home construction that can go undetected for years. One example is wood rot. Here’s what happens when a Weather Tight installation uncovers hidden issues in a home.

Image shows a woman standing just outside a patio door wearing a light grey robe. The patio outside has a wooden table and chairs, and a small amount of snow on a railing.

A Typical Patio Door Installation

Patio door installations are something we often do. Unfortunately, sliding doors installed in homes in the 1980s and beyond were often subpar. Homebuilders used lower quality materials, resulting in 10, 20, and 30-year-old doors that are a constant hassle for the homeowner.

We’ve all wrestled with this type of door at some point. It comes off the tracks; the screen seems flimsy and rickety. More importantly, the door seems insecure and unsafe.

Often these sliding patio doors don’t close tightly, either. As a result, they are drafty in the winter and can leak during wet weather. Try as they might, homeowners often find themselves at war with their sliding door.

Such was the case with a homeowner in Brookfield, WI. They had a home built in the early 1990s with a typical sliding patio door. Although the door that opened to their deck had once been a nice feature of the house, allowing airflow in the summer and nice bright light, it had now become a hassle.

Not only did the door look dated, but it came off the track, making it hard to open and close. The screen was bent, and the small lock on the door was tenuous and unreliable. Paul and LeeAnn, the homeowners, had taken to putting a wooden dowel in the track to keep the door closed securely at night. Even when their dog had to go out, they would walk him around to the garage door so they didn’t have to wrestle with the sliding patio door.

When our product expert met with the couple, they explained that they had moved the door to the bottom of their home improvement list several times, but this past winter, there were icicles inside their door frame! In addition, the paint around the door frame was peeling and cracked. Even though their TV and Paul’s favorite recliner were near the patio door, he often avoided relaxing there in cold weather because it was so drafty and cold.

The homeowners agreed that the time had come to replace their old sliding door and invest in a door that better fit their needs, and they decided to move forward with Weather Tight.

Uncovering a Hidden Problem

When our installers arrived to put in the new patio door for LeeAnn and Paul, they removed the old door and surrounding trim. At Weather Tight, when we do installations, we typically recommend completely removing the old product. This means full-frame and door replacements—taking out the trim as well. We do the same with siding, removing the old siding or trim before updating it.

Some people might wonder why we do this when installing right over the top of existing construction would be faster and easier. The truth is that it’s the right way to install replacement products. Removing the old components allows us to see what’s going on underneath. We can identify any issues and ensure that nothing is happening that might void the warranty on your new product. It also makes sure that we are starting from scratch rather than putting a band-aid over any issues you may have. In the long run, it’s the best option for protecting your investment.

When we removed the trim around Paul and LeeAnn’s patio, we found that water had seeped in around the old, leaky sliding door. Even though it appeared dry and hard on the surface, the wood beneath the trim was spongy and soft—a sure sign of wood rot. Where there is moisture, there also tend to be bugs, as they like cool, damp places to call home—especially in warmer months.

Even though the homeowners weren’t happy about the discovery, they were glad they could address the problem rather than installing the door on top of rotting, mildewed wood. We worked with them to fix the situation, which included adding a new frame and insulation and fixing a gutter above the patio door.

Once the new door was installed, with a fresh new frame, Paul and LeeAnn could immediately see a huge difference.

“The door opens so easily, but it locks securely. There’s no wrestling with the screen to get in and out,” Paul reported.

LeeAnn added, “Better still, we don’t have to go out to the garage every time the dog needs to go outside! I don’t know why we waited so long to fix this door.”

What’s more, Paul and LeeAnn could use their TV room again, even in the winter, because there was no drafty door letting in the cold (and no icicles inside the house). They reported a big difference in their comfort levels and even their heating bill. The energy savings will continue into the summer months as well when no cold air will be leaking out through the patio door.

Setting Each Installation Up for Success

At Weather Tight, we view our customer relationships as long-term. We know that it’s essential to ensure that our customers are completely satisfied and happy with the installation process and the lasting results.

Of course, no one wants to discover an issue like wood rot or mildew in their home. We also know that many homeowners are on a tight budget and may be concerned about the costs surrounding a bigger issue. But we encourage customers to address these issues when they’re discovered because doing an installation the right way protects their investment and home.

When we take the proper steps to ensure an installation is done thoroughly and completely, we know that it protects the product warranty in the future. We also know that it will result in fewer issues down the road and help you feel happier about the overall outcome.

In the case of Paul and LeeAnn, they wondered why they waited so long to do something that made such a big difference in their lives. A patio door might seem like a minor update, but now they can easily use their back door, entertain without worries, and let their dog out. In addition, they can enjoy the room without drafts.

The best type of exterior home update is one that you don’t have to think about later. If your patio door, windows, siding, or roof keeps you up at night, it’s time to discover the difference an exterior update can make for your home. Don’t wait! Contact Weather Tight today, or stop into our West Allis showroom to see a wide selection of door and window products.

ROI on Exterior Updates: Save with New Roofs, Windows, & Doors

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Let’s talk ROI. When you hear return on investment, you probably think of the stock market. But in today’s world, investing in your home might be a wiser place for your savings. In fact, the return on exterior updates can be even better than you think.

If you’re on a budget, it pays to do a little research before deciding how to invest in your home’s exterior. Whether you’re considering selling your home soon or looking for ways to save money in the long run, there’s a significant return on home exterior updates. With the right approach, you can attract buyers, get more for the sale, and see savings on your utilities to boot! Here’s what you need to know about the ROI on exterior updates.

Image shows an aerial shot of a large home with light trim and black shutters. a beautifully manicured lawn and landscape is outside the home.

High Yield Exterior Updates

So, what is the highest yield on exterior updates for your home? It may depend on whether you’re preparing your home for sale or you plan to stay with your home for years to come.

For those planning to sell, it’s all about curb appeal. Improving the look of your home’s exterior with a few critical updates can be a sound investment (and help you fetch a higher price from that potential buyer). Here are a few exterior updates to consider.

New Entry Doors

Your entry doors are the face of your home. It’s the first thing people see when they walk in; chances are, potential buyers will notice a shabby front door immediately. Your entry doors are at eye level, front, and center, setting the tone for the rest of your house. Potential buyers are likely to notice if a door looks old and worn, and they will make assumptions about the rest of the home.

On the same note, a new entry door is a simple and affordable update that can really boost your curb appeal and add that polished look to your home. It can also increase the safety and security of your home, which is another draw for potential buyers.

New Roof

If you’re planning to sell your home, it’s critical that you make sure the roof is up to par. If you have shingles past their prime, they will definitely get noticed by a potential buyer. In addition, a new roof will increase your home’s value, and it’s something that your real estate agent can showcase and promote when they sell your house.

A new roof can also help you ensure that you don’t have any ventilation issues or other problems in your home that could result in an inspection problem. While new roofing requires some investment, the truth is that if your roof is in poor condition, it can become a very costly problem. Your ROI on a new roof makes it a worthy exterior update.

New Siding and Trim

 

In this Home Improvement Tips with Tod and Todd video, Tod points out some wear-and-tear signs of damaged siding on a Hales Corners, Wisconsin home that shows it’s time to tear off and replace the siding. Out-of-date siding can detract from the curb appeal of your home!

Another exterior update to consider is new siding and trim. Once again, this exterior update boosts your curb appeal and will help your home look its best when it hits the market. First impressions are everything to buyers, so make sure your home looks appealing and well-cared-for at first sight.

New siding and trim are about more than just aesthetic appeal, though. By investing in new siding, you will increase the comfort and temperature control in your home. We’ll remove the old siding and ensure you don’t have any concerns lurking beneath the finish. You’ll be confident that your home is as well-kept as it looks.

Long-Term ROI on Exterior Updates

What if you don’t plan to sell your home right now but instead want to lower your utility bills, increase your home’s safety, and ensure that you aren’t going to run into massive problems (like wood rot, pests, or mold) in the future?

While the above exterior updates offer a sound investment for long and short-term homeowners alike, there are some additional exterior updates to consider as well.

New Windows

If you want to lower your utility bills, increase the comfort of your home, and mitigate any issues that come with cold (and hot) weather, then new windows are one of the best investments you can make. Replacement windows are surprisingly affordable, and they really update both the look and feel of your home.

Of course, replacement windows are a great idea before you sell your home as well. You can increase the light in your home, make the rooms appear larger, and address any issues with leaks, out-of-style windows, or wood rot (all of which can make buyers beware).

But don’t wait to replace windows until you’re about to put your house on the market. One of the most common comments we hear from our customers is, “I don’t know why I waited to update. My house temperature is so much more comfortable with new windows!”

Other Long-Term Exterior Updates with Good ROI

The same goes for most exterior updates. You may want to reconsider if you’re putting off improvements until you’re preparing to sell. Why not make your home a place you want to live in right now? Upgrading and updating the home you’re in with some strategic exterior updates will increase your curb appeal and comfort—a worthy investment to feel proud of your living space!

The good news across the board is that almost all exterior updates offer significant ROI. For example, a new door can reduce air infiltration, lower energy costs, increase security, and help you rest easily at night. Likewise, a new roof can keep your home healthy, ensure that you have proper ventilation, and protect your family from the hazards of roof issues.

Even a simple investment like trim or siding can significantly increase the comfort levels of your house. When we install siding, we take it down to the base layer, install a new Tyvek HomeWrap, and address any concerns like rotting wood before putting on the new exterior finish. A leaky gutter (or missing gutter, as seen in the video below) can cause major and expensive damage to your house.

If you’re ready to update your home, reach out today! We can help you decide which exterior update will offer the best ROI for your particular situation. You may be surprised at how sound an investment in your home can be—no matter the market!

Modern Doors are Back! How to Choose a Modern Door Style You’ll Love

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For a while now, farmhouse looks have been all the rage. Doors, windows, and home trim have had a handcrafted look—a little bit country, rustic, homey.

But lately, modern doors have been making a comeback. So should you go for a modern front door? Are you trying to select the right exterior door for your home? Here’s what you need to know about choosing a door that looks right in style.

Photo shows the outside front porch of a blue home with white trim and a black door. White wicker furniture and a swing are on the porch.

Choosing an Exterior Door

So you’ve decided to upgrade your exterior doors. Doors can often feel like the center of your home or the face. They’re welcoming, giving a house a personality.

Exterior doors are also an affordable update that offers outsized benefits. If you suspect your exterior doors need replacing, there are a few ways to confirm. First, you can slide a dollar bill under the door—if it moves freely, you likely have air infiltration into your home.

Another option is to wet the palm of your hand on a cooler or windy day. Then, close the door and feel around the edges. If you feel a cool breeze on your hand, it’s another sign that air is leaking in and out of your home. New exterior doors can cut your energy costs and increase your comfort—a major bonus for our cold-climate-familiar Wisconsin homeowners!

Other signs that it’s time for exterior door replacement?

  • Locks that stick or don’t work.
  • Handles that are hard to open.
  • Security concerns—lack of visibility, flimsy doors.
  • Doors that are starting to peel, fade, or degrade.
  • Doors that look dated.
  • Doors that don’t complement the rest of your home and exterior finish.

Of course, some people just want to update their exterior door because they need a change, and that’s okay too. With so many styles and colors to choose from, there’s a perfect exterior door to update your home and bring your house to life.

Want to know if it’s time to update your front door? Check out this video from Tod & Todd:

 

As you can see, when we replace entry doors, we do a full-frame replacement, ensuring that the door is adequately insulated and securely installed. This not only makes your entry door last longer but also helps us ensure that we address any underlying issues. As a result, your home will be safe and secure with a beautiful new entry door.

Exploring Door Styles

Doors come in many different styles with something to enhance the look of every house. When choosing your exterior door style, you’ll want to consider the look and feel of your home. Do you have a country farmhouse? A bungalow? A classic split-level or a modern ranch?

Just like homes, exterior doors also come in many styles and options. You also have room to play around with the feel of your home by choosing a different style of door. For example, a Cape Cod looks great with a craftsman-style door, but if your style’s a little more modern, go with a sleeker option—it’s all about finding the balance that suits your personal preference.

Traditional-style doors have that European feel. They often feature glass, ornate trim, and different panel configurations. Most traditional doors have clear or frosted glass for privacy, and some feature transoms and sidelights. These are the classic choices.

Craftsman doors harken back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They have a handmade look and feel. They may feature shelves, wrought iron detailing, or decorative glass. Craftsman-style doors fit with many older homes, but again, they can also enhance and update other homes.

Farmhouse doors call back to the traditional style, with a hint of craftsmanship too. These doors often feature vertical planks and panels. Glass is typically in a grill pattern, and they may feature sidelights. Hardware is a must for playing up the rustic farmhouse look. Selecting modern door locks with a distressed bronze or matte black finish will really enhance the feel of a farmhouse door.

Finally, we get to modern entry doors—the current popular trend. Modern doors are sleek and minimal, with clean lines and few (if any) panels. They often have a contemporary aspect that speaks to today’s more streamlined homes and lifestyles. The glass features in these doors are usually simple and sophisticated. Modern doors are often in bold colors—solid black, red, navy, and other standout options that make the door pop.

For minimalist designs, modern doors bring drama. These doors are eye-catching and beautiful. What’s more, they fit nearly any home style and can give your house a contemporary, elevated feel.

An Entry Door You Can Rely On

Whether you choose an entry door with a modern style or another style, one thing’s for sure—Weather Tight offers doors that you can rely on. Our careful installation process ensures that the door is safe, secure, and built to last.

We carry the highest quality products on the market in an array of styles, colors, and looks to suit any home. Work with our team to get a door you’ll love.

Complete the look with beautiful hardware. The right knob, lock, and hinges will bring together the entry door look. Our multipoint locking system helps to add another layer of security and safety to your home as well.

If you’re exploring your entry door options, reach out today or come visit our West Allis, Wisconsin showroom, where you can see many of our exterior door options in person. Our representatives will walk you through all the available choices and help you find a door that brings your home to life!

Types of Patio Doors: Exploring Your Patio Door Options

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It seems that almost all homeowners struggle with their patio doors. It doesn’t matter what type of patio door you have, either—any aging door can present a problem. Sliding doors stick, and French doors can seem unstable.

Your patio door presents some unique challenges, whether it opens onto a cement slab, a deck, or a small porch. Here’s what you need to know about the types of patio doors available and how to know if it’s time to update your home’s patio entrance door.

Image shows an exterior shot of a light colored house with green trim. A large tiled patio sits outside the house, with open patio doors.

When to Replace Your Patio Door?

Are you wondering when you should replace your patio door? Of course, there are aesthetic reasons—you want a door that matches and balances the look and style of your home and seamlessly welcomes you out into your home’s outdoor spaces. But there are also practical and safety reasons to upgrade to a new patio door.

Many older sliding-style patio doors were made of rickety aluminum. These doors consist of a flimsy screen and a sliding door that operates on tracks. The doors stick and get off-kilter. They rarely open smoothly, and either you’re wrestling to get the door open or pulling to get it shut. Sometimes they don’t close all the way, and other times, you need two people to pry them open.

The other hazard with older patio doors is that they typically feature a singular lock in the middle. The lock is held together by a small piece of metal that barely goes into the frame. Small screws hold the locking mechanism in place. As you probably realize, this doesn’t make for ideal home security.

It’s not something we like to think about, but patio doors can be one of the easiest doors in your home to break into. With the singular locking point and the rickety tracks, someone can wiggle the door back and forth and easily enter. Push hard enough, and the door can open with minimal effort.

Finally, the other hazard of older patio doors is that many include metal sills at the bottom of the jamb. The metal, typically aluminum, isn’t always an ideal fit for our cold Wisconsin winters. Metal is conductive, and it can quickly become icy in frigid weather. Condensation ice melts off and leaks into the surrounding wood, leading to rot and deterioration. It’s common for us to remove a door and find a significant problem with rot and decay thanks to water seeping into the jamb. Poor insulation and faulty seals compound the problem.

Don’t miss the video below from Tod & Todd, where they walk you through the signs that it’s time to replace your patio door.

 

Choose from Many Types of Patio Doors

If any of the problems above sound familiar, you’re ready to replace your patio door. But which type of patio door should you pick? Fortunately, there are many different patio door sizes and styles to choose from. French patio doors are popular, but most people prefer to go with a classic sliding door. Fortunately, all the different types of patio doors that we carry at Weather Tight are of the highest quality. They will last for years, with none of the issues that arise with the older doors. (You can even stop into our West Allis, Wisconsin showroom to see many of our entry and patio door options in person.)

In addition to style options, we have many customization choices to ensure the right patio door complements the look of your home and matches seamlessly. You can choose from fade-resistant trim that is made to last. Select a grid-style door to create a beautifully finished look.

One of the top features of Weather Tight doors is our multipoint locking system. Rather than locking in one central spot that is easily pushed in, our doors lock in three places with the turn of the bolt. Multipoint locking systems offer excellent safety and security, making a replacement patio door from Weather Tight a popular choice.

What’s more, our sliding doors operate on an upper track, similar to a barn door. This lets you slide the door open and closed without wrestling or resistance. You can open the door with little effort—perfect for when you’re entertaining out on the patio.

Our patio doors include QuadSealTM weather stripping for improved energy efficiency, keeping your home’s temperature consistent in any weather. So, you won’t need to worry about rain or snow leaking in (or the air conditioning leaking out in the summer).

Select from five different handle finishes and an array of trim color options. Whether you prefer painter’s white, provincial oak, tan, or sandstone, we offer a look and style that will match the style and colors of your house.

If you’re ready to explore your new patio door options, reach out today! Our Weather Tight representatives are happy to review the array of patio door selections available. As Wisconsin’s most recommended home remodeler, we’re ready to take on your home remodeling projects! We service numerous Southeastern Wisconsin counties and have helped hundreds of happy homeowners find the right patio door for their homes. We’ll come out and measure your sliding glass door dimensions and show you the many replacement patio door options to choose from.

Exterior Door Locks: How to Be Sure Your Home is Safe

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Are you tired of fussing with old door locks? Maybe your lock sticks and doesn’t hold the door tightly against the frame. Perhaps you’re feeling some heat loss and air infiltration around your door. Is it time to replace your exterior door locks?

If you’re struggling with your exterior door locks, it may be time to replace not only the locks but the whole door. Here’s why you should consider a better solution for stronger security.

Image shows a man's arm extended into the frame of the photo, opening the silver handle of a white storm door.

Wrestling with Old Door Locks

We’ve all had THAT exterior door—one that doesn’t lock easily. When you come to the house with an arm full of groceries or mail, you stand at the door, wiggling your key and trying to get the lock to turn.

Or maybe you have the opposite problem; the lock turns very easily—too easily, in fact. You’ve given out house keys to various guests, and the security of your exterior door locks is questionable at best. So, is it time to replace your exterior door locks? How do you know?

Before you run off to the nearest big box store to buy a replacement lock, take a moment to consider the state of your exterior door. Is the door in good condition? Does it seal tightly to the frame? If you shine a flashlight or stand outside the door at night, can you see the light around the door frame? That’s a sure sign that air is escaping in and out of your home.

Also, look at the door’s appearance. Is it a solid door that is holding up well to the weather, or has your exterior door seen better days? Whether it’s a front or side entry to your home, your door is likely the first thing guests see. You’ll want to give off the best impression and select a door that’s beautiful and built solidly.

If your exterior door locks aren’t doing their job anymore, chances are, your door has also passed its prime. It may be time to consider exterior door replacement.

The Safety of a Multipoint Locking System

At Weather Tight, most of our exterior options include a free upgrade option to a multipoint locking system. So, what is a multipoint lock system? It’s the safest, safest, and most weather-tight way to keep your home locked.

Watch this video from Tod & Todd to learn about the importance of a multipoint locking system:

A multipoint locking system offers a locking mechanism at several points along the door—typically the top, middle, and bottom. Then, with one easy turn of the key or interior locking mechanism, your door is closed tightly and securely to the frame.

Doors with a singular locking point can be kicked in, broken, and even removed from the side. What’s more, the door no longer seals as tightly over time. As a result, cold air can leak through your door in the winter. Drafts can come in under the door, and suddenly your house feels chillier and less comfortable. In the summer, you’ll end up paying more for air conditioning as the air leaks to the outside. Wisconsin weather can be harsh, and the last thing you want is inflated energy bills because of poor seals around your entry doors.

Cut your energy costs and security concerns with a new, secure exterior door. You’ll rest easy at night knowing your door is exceptionally safe and your family is protected. A multipoint locking system is a simple, effective, and unobtrusive way to add an extra layer of protection to your house.

From the inside, the locking system is as easy to operate as a single-point system. With the flip of the locking mechanism, the door is closed and secured in three separate points. It’s just as easy to unlock from the inside—turn and open. If you’ve been wrestling with sticky old door locks that don’t close or open with ease, you’ll be amazed at the smoothness of operation.

Beautiful Exterior Door Options to Flatter Any Home

The fun part of replacing your exterior door is that it gives you a chance to upgrade and personalize the look of your home. With Weather Tight, you can choose from a huge variety of exterior door options, ensuring a look you’ll love (at a price you can afford). You can even visit our West Allis, Wisconsin showroom to see our entry door options in person and speak to a representative for an estimate on your exterior door replacement project.

Our beautiful Therma-Tru doors are available in many colors and finish options. Everyone loves the look of a wooden door, of course, but fiberglass doors are more secure and provide five times the insulation of wood. These days fiberglass doors are undetectable from their classic wooden counterparts. In fact, they often look much better because there’s no fading, cracking, peeling, or upkeep. The woodgrain looks authentic and will complement any home.

Visit the Therma-Tru Door Designer to play with the many looks and options for your front door. Whether you like a door with a transom, sidelight, or a beautiful pattern, there are plenty of options and styles. Security is, of course, extremely important to everyone, but don’t forget about curb appeal too! We want you to feel proud of your new exterior door and your home’s mini face-lift!

Before you struggle to install an exterior door lock that will never quite seal or turn properly, reach out to Weather Tight. A replacement door can improve the look and feel of your home. With the multipoint locking system, it can also improve the safety and security of your house. You’ll sleep easy, knowing your family is protected and your home is beautiful and secure.

To learn how affordable and easy a replacement exterior door can be, please reach out to our representatives today. We’re happy to help you explore your options and discover the door of your dreams! Thousands of satisfied Southeastern Wisconsin homeowners have joined the Weather Tight family. Learn why we’re Wisconsin’s most recommended home remodeler today!