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Exterior door replacement checklist

Final inspection for exterior-door opening, threshold, support, anchorage, flashing, weather sealing, operation, security, egress, hardware, trim, and documentation.

4 items to check

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Door product, handing, opening, glazing, threshold, and required function match approval

Critical item

The installed door should match approved dimensions, swing or slide direction, safety glazing, fire or egress function where applicable, threshold, weather exposure, and wall construction.

Frame, sill, shims, anchors, and hardware are stable and aligned

Critical item

Sill support, frame anchorage, shimming, fasteners, hinges, rollers, strike reinforcement, and adjustment should follow the door instructions and security or wind requirements that apply.

Flashing, sill pan, drainage, weatherstripping, and air sealing are complete

Critical item

The opening should manage exterior water outward and connect to wall weather and air-control layers, while weatherstripping and sealants remain continuous and compatible.

Locks, latches, egress, glass, screen, trim, finish, and records are complete

The door should open, close, latch, lock, unlock, and provide required egress without binding, while finishes remain clean and undamaged and owner information is delivered.

Use this checklist after replacement of an exterior hinged, sliding, patio, or similar door. Product type, weather exposure, sill, structural opening, egress, accessibility, security, and water-management requirements vary.

Reference standards

  • Approved plans, written scope, adopted state and local codes, permit conditions, authority having jurisdiction requirements, and manufacturer installation instructions
  • Approved door order, opening, safety glazing, egress, accessibility, and security requirements
  • Door, sill pan, flashing, threshold, fastener, sealant, foam, hardware, trim, and wall-system instructions
  • Tools

  • Written scope, selections, and change orders
  • Flashlight, camera, tape measure, and level
  • Product instructions, receipts, warranty, permit, and inspection records