When building your dream home, it’s easy to get excited about installing that stunning front door. But experienced contractors—especially those focused on quality and craftsmanship, like Window Works Co.—know that the permanent front entry should be one of the last things installed. Instead, most pros rely on a temporary solution known as a dunnage door during earlier construction phases.
What Is a Dunnage Door?
A dunnage door is a temporary, functional door installed in the rough opening where the permanent front door will eventually go. It’s typically made of inexpensive materials like plywood or hollow-core slabs and is meant to take all the abuse of the construction site—dings, dirt, moisture, and heavy traffic—so your actual front door doesn’t have to.
This low-cost stand-in allows tradespeople to enter and secure the site while protecting your final entryway investment from damage, warping, or misalignment. Once the interior is nearing completion, the dunnage door is rem oved and replaced with your high-end, properly fitted front door.
Why Wait to Install the Front Door?
Delaying the installation of the final front door isn’t about procrastination—it’s about protection, precision, and presentation. Below are several reasons why we recommend waiting until the end of the project:
1. To Prevent Damage from Ongoing Work
- Trades like drywallers, painters, and flooring crews can accidentally scuff or damage doors.
- High-end wood or glass doors are especially vulnerable to scratches, dents, or even warping from premature exposure.
2. Avoiding Weather Exposure
- In early construction stages, homes are not fully sealed against the elements.
- Moisture intrusion can damage door finishes or cause swelling, particularly in wood doors.
- Delaying installation helps maintain material integrity and function.
4. Ensuring Final Elevations Are Set
- Exterior elements like porches, stoops, and final flooring heights must be finalized before accurate threshold placement.
- Installing the front door too early could result in misalignment or the need for costly rework.
5. Precision in Trim and Finish Work
- Painters, siding installers, and trim carpenters require access around the door area.
- A finished door installed too early can interfere with these processes or be inadvertently painted or sprayed.
6. Curb Appeal at Final Walkthrough
- A freshly installed, undamaged front door gives an excellent first impression.
- For custom homes, a flawless entryway is part of the “wow” factor during buyer walkthroughs or inspections.
Why Dunnage Doors Should Be Used
We recommend using temporary doors, often referred to as dunnage doors. These are designed to offer security for tools, equipment, and other items inside the home, but since they’re intended for temporary use, it’s not a problem if they get scratched or dented.
When Does the Real Door Go In?
Only after these major steps are complete should your permanent front door be installed:
- Site grading and foundation curing
- Framing and roof system (“dry-in”)
- Rough-ins for plumbing, HVAC, and electrical
- Window and siding installation
- Insulation and drywall prep
At that point, your real front door can be installed with care and precision—looking perfect and performing flawlessly for years to come.
Building a New Home?
If your builder is insisting on installing doors early without taking these crucial steps into consideration, it’s a good idea to have a discussion with them. For expert door installation and guidance you can trust contact the experts at Window Works Co. today and schedule your complimentary consultation!