Front door sidelights add natural light and curb appeal to any home, but over time they can become drafty, fogged between panes, or simply outdated. Replacing them restores energy efficiency and transforms the look of your entryway without the expense of a full door replacement. This Old House general contractor Tom Silva demonstrates that with […]
If your exterior door scrapes against the floor, catches on new carpet, or refuses to swing freely, you are facing a common household problem that has a practical solution. Rather than replacing the entire door assembly or calling in a professional for an expensive reframing job, you can resize the door yourself with basic tools
Hollow core doors became a staple in homes built during the post-war housing boom of the 1950s and 1960s. Builders chose them for their light weight and low cost, but the trade-off was a flat, plain appearance that lacks the character of traditional panel doors. The good news is that you do not need to
Window wells serve an essential role in protecting below-grade basement windows from water infiltration, soil pressure, and physical damage. Over time, these metal or plastic structures can rust, corrode, warp, or become detached from the foundation due to ground movement and constant exposure to the elements. Replacing a deteriorating window well is a manageable DIY
Transforming salvaged architectural elements into striking home decor is one of the most rewarding ways to blend history with personal style. A pier mirror, the tall ornamental glass that once graced Victorian-era foyers, can be recreated using antique door trim and modern materials. This project lets you build a statement piece that draws the eye
Water intrusion around windows is one of the most common sources of hidden damage in modern homes. Even the best-insulated, most energy-efficient window units will fail at keeping moisture out if the flashing around them is poorly installed or completely absent. Flashing a window may sound like a job best left to seasoned professionals, but
Turning salvaged door knobs into a functional wall-mounted coatrack is one of the most satisfying weekend projects a homeowner can tackle. It requires minimal materials, basic tools, and a bit of creativity. Best of all, the result is a custom storage solution that adds vintage charm to any entryway or mudroom. This Old House editor
If you have noticed a sash lock on one of your vinyl windows that is broken, stiff, or missing entirely, you might be surprised to learn how quickly you can fix it yourself. Sash locks are the small mechanisms at the meeting rail of double-hung windows that secure the upper and lower sashes together. When
Wood doors add warmth and character to any home, but they can develop a frustrating problem over time: sticking. When a door refuses to open or close smoothly, it is often a sign of underlying issues ranging from humidity fluctuations to hardware wear. Fortunately, most sticking doors can be repaired with basic tools and a
Garage door springs are essential components that support your garage door’s weight and make it easy to open and close. Over time, these springs wear out or break, leaving you with a door that either will not budge or slams down with dangerous force. While many homeowners call a professional, replacing garage door springs can
