An ordinary hardware or alignment problem may be repairable without a new leaf. If replacement is appropriate, first confirm that the proposed external door suits the sound existing opening and exposure; a new leaf cannot remedy underlying frame or threshold defects.
external door replacement can be appropriate when the door sags, rubs, sticks or has uneven gaps around the opening. Review exposure, leaf weight and the existing frame before accepting a straightforward leaf replacement; a whole doorway system is a different task.
Signs: the door closes poorly despite an otherwise sound visible opening or the latch, handle, hinge or ordinary running hardware no longer lines up or operates normally. Causes: normal wear in hinges, latches or compatible mechanical hardware or local damage to an accessible component rather than an assumed structural defect.
Photograph the bottom clearance and threshold from inside and outside. An ordinary leaf fit retains the existing threshold arrangement. Changing drainage, waterproofing or the building opening is outside this task and should not be hidden inside a request to shorten the door.
Identify an authorised person who can remain available and explain any other access route. Keep pets and belongings away from the opening. Agree the handling and storage of the old leaf so a temporary opening does not create an unmanaged access problem.