Front and Back Doors Before Winter: Repairs, Security and Replacement
Fix draughts and sticking external doors, upgrade to secure locks, and know when it is time to replace a front or back door.
Your front and back doors keep out the cold, the rain and anyone who should not be there. Winter is when their weaknesses show: draughts, swollen timber that sticks, locks that are stiff in the cold. A few repairs, or a well-chosen replacement, make a home warmer and more secure.
The quick answer
- Replace worn seals and fit a threshold seal or brush to stop draughts
- Tighten or adjust hinges on doors that drop or catch
- Upgrade euro cylinder locks to anti-snap cylinders
- Check the letterbox, frame and glass panels for weak points
- Replace doors that are warped, rotten or badly insecure
Common problems and fixes
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
| Draught round the door | Worn or missing seals | Replace seals and fit a threshold seal |
| Door sticks in winter | Timber swelling with damp | Adjust hinges, plane and reseal edges |
| uPVC door hard to lock | Door has dropped or mechanism worn | Adjust hinges and keeps, or replace mechanism |
| Lock stiff in cold weather | Dirt or lack of lubrication | Clean and lubricate with a suitable lock lubricant |
| Water coming in at the bottom | Failed threshold or weather bar | Replace threshold or fit a weather bar |
| Glass panel misted or cracked | Failed sealed unit | Replace the glass unit |
Security upgrades
- Anti-snap euro cylinders: many uPVC and composite doors use cylinder locks that can be snapped. Upgrade to a cylinder rated to TS007 3 star or SS312 Diamond standard
- British Standard locks: for timber doors, a five-lever mortice deadlock to BS 3621 is often required by insurers
- Door chains or viewers for checking callers
- A letterbox guard to stop people reaching in
- Strong hinges, and hinge bolts on outward-opening doors
Check your home insurance policy, as some require specific lock standards.
uPVC, composite or timber?
| Type | Pros | Cons |
| uPVC | Affordable, low maintenance, good insulation | Can look plain, can drop over time |
| Composite | Strong, secure, good insulation, many styles | Costs more than uPVC |
| Timber | Traditional look, suits period homes | Needs regular painting and can swell |
When to replace an external door
- The door or frame is rotten, warped or split
- It cannot be made to close and lock properly
- It is draughty even after new seals
- You want a significant upgrade in security or insulation
In England, replacement external doors with significant glazing fall under building regulations. A competent person scheme installer can self-certify the work. In conservation areas or listed buildings, check with the council first.
Frequently asked questions
Why has my uPVC door become hard to lock?
Usually the door has dropped slightly. Adjusting the hinges and keeps often fixes it. Do not force the handle, as it can break the mechanism.
Should I change my locks when I move in?
Yes, it is sensible to change cylinders when you move into a new home, as you do not know who has keys.
Can you fit draught seals to an old door?
Yes. Seals, brushes and threshold strips suit most doors.
Related guides
- Sticking, squeaky or draughty doors
- Outdoor security lighting
- Winter-proofing: insulation and draught-proofing
- Draughty or failing windows
Send photos of the door and lock, and your postcode, or call 07444 262522.