A Rare 16-Year Follow-Up
In March 2010, I was commissioned to build and install a custom timber front door and frame. Fast forward to April 2026, and I was called back by the same homeowner—not to fix a broken door, but to simply upgrade the security locks and handles.
Seeing this door again after 16 years of British weather was the ultimate test of my work.
The Inspection: How did it hold up?
Many “budget” doors warp, sag, or rot within 5 to 10 years. However, because I used premium materials and precision joinery back in 2010:
- The Frame: Still perfectly square and solid.
- The Door: No warping or sticking, despite nearly two decades of use.
- The Joints: Tight and secure, exactly as they were the day I fitted them.
Completed home security upgrade on a custom-built timber door, still in perfect condition 16 years after the original installation. 
Hand-built timber front door with side lights and arched glass window, finished with protective wood stain for long-term durability. 
Professional carpentry installation of a custom-made solid wood front door and frame, showing raw timber joinery before glazing and finishing.
The Work: Security & Style Upgrade
The goal for this visit was to bring the door’s security up to 2026 standards.
- Preparation: I removed the aged hardware and carefully repaired the wood stiles to ensure a fresh, clean mount for the new mechanisms.
- Hardware: I sourced a high-security ERA 3-lever sash lock and modern chrome lever handles from my trusted local suppliers.
- Precision Fit: I hand-chiselled the new strike plate into the frame. A door should lock with a gentle “click”—no slamming or lifting required.
Custom timber front door with arched glass window and side lights after 16 years of use 
Close-up of worn chrome door handle and 3-lever lock needing replacement on a wooden door 
Side view of an aging 3-lever mortice lock showing wear and tear on the door edge. 
Front view of door stile with hardware removed, showing wood prep for new lock installation. 
Side view of deep mortice pocket in a solid wood door, cleaned and ready for a new lock. 
Detail of precision carpentry prep work on a timber door to ensure a flush fit for new hardware. 
New high-security ERA lock and Smith and Locke chrome handles ready for installation. 
Completed installation of high-security 3-lever sash lock and polished chrome handle on a timber door.
Why Quality Matters
This project proves that good work isn’t expensive; it’s an investment. By doing the job right 16 years ago, the homeowner saved thousands of pounds by not having to replace the entire entrance.
“I don’t just fix things for today; I build them for the next twenty years.”
Need a Specialist for Your Home?
Whether it is a new installation or a precision repair, I bring the same level of care to every job. I specialize in:
- Internal & External Door Hanging
- Lock & Hardware Upgrades
- Custom Alcoves & Shelving
- Laminate & Real Wood Flooring