What Are Clearance Exterior Doors?

Clearance exterior doors are entry doors sold at reduced prices for various reasons including discontinued models, slight cosmetic imperfections, overstock inventory, or display models that retailers need to move. Despite their discounted status, these doors often maintain the same structural integrity and weather resistance as full-priced options.

These doors come in various materials including fiberglass, steel, and wood, each offering different benefits in terms of insulation, security, and aesthetics. Manufacturers and retailers regularly rotate their inventory, creating opportunities for savvy shoppers to find high-quality exterior doors at fraction of their original cost. The key difference is that selection may be limited to what's currently available in clearance inventory rather than custom-ordering exactly what you want.

How To Identify Quality in Clearance Doors

When shopping for clearance exterior doors, it's crucial to examine them carefully for quality indicators. First, check the door's core construction—solid wood cores or high-density foam cores generally provide better insulation and durability than hollow cores. Energy efficiency ratings like U-factor and R-value tell you how well the door will insulate your home.

Inspect the door frame for signs of warping or damage, as this can affect installation and performance. Hardware quality matters too—look for solid metal hinges and quality locksets that will withstand daily use. For steel and fiberglass doors, examine the finish for scratches or dents that might compromise weather resistance. Minor cosmetic flaws on non-visible areas (like the side facing inside your home) can offer substantial savings without affecting functionality.

Finally, verify the warranty status. Many clearance doors still carry manufacturer warranties, though they may be reduced from the original terms. A door with even a limited warranty provides some assurance of quality and recourse if problems develop.

Clearance Exterior Door Provider Comparison

Several major retailers and specialty door companies offer clearance sections worth exploring when hunting for deals on exterior doors. Here's how they compare:

  • Home Depot - Their clearance section regularly features exterior doors with minor cosmetic damage or discontinued styles. Their nationwide locations make in-person inspection possible before purchasing. Visit Home Depot for current clearance inventory.
  • Lowe's - Offers a dedicated clearance section both online and in-store with significant discounts on brand-name exterior doors. Their staff can often provide installation services as well. Check Lowe's clearance section regularly as inventory changes frequently.
  • Menards - Known for competitive pricing, their clearance section often includes overstocked exterior doors at steep discounts. Their selection tends to focus on practical, value-oriented options. Browse Menards for budget-friendly clearance doors.
  • Surplus Building Materials - Companies like Builders Surplus specialize in discounted building materials including exterior doors from canceled orders or overstock.

For the best results, check these retailers' inventories regularly as clearance stock changes frequently. Many offer online inventory tracking, though viewing doors in person is always preferable when possible.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Clearance Doors

The primary advantage of purchasing clearance exterior doors is the substantial cost savings, often 30-70% off retail prices. This allows homeowners to install higher-quality doors than they might otherwise afford. Additionally, clearance doors are typically available immediately, eliminating the wait times associated with special orders.

However, clearance shopping comes with certain limitations. Selection is restricted to available inventory, which might not include the exact style, size, or finish you prefer. Some clearance doors may have minor cosmetic imperfections that, while not affecting functionality, might not meet perfectionist standards. Installation options may also be limited, as custom sizing services are rarely available for clearance items.

Another consideration is the potential lack of matching sets if you're replacing multiple doors. JELD-WEN and Masonite, two major door manufacturers, produce consistent product lines, but finding multiple matching clearance doors can be challenging. This makes clearance options better suited for single-door replacements rather than whole-house upgrades requiring a cohesive look.

Pricing and Value Considerations

Clearance exterior doors typically range from $150-$600, compared to $300-$1,500 for regular retail prices. Steel doors usually offer the most affordable clearance options, while solid wood doors command premium prices even when discounted. Fiberglass composite doors fall in the middle, offering excellent value with their durability and energy efficiency.

When evaluating clearance door prices, factor in additional costs like new hardware, weatherstripping, and installation. Therma-Tru, a premium door manufacturer, offers complete door systems that include frames and weathersealing components, which can be a better value even at clearance prices than buying just a door slab that requires additional components.

For maximum value, consider energy efficiency ratings alongside the purchase price. A higher-quality insulated door with proper weatherstripping can recover its cost through energy savings. According to ENERGY STAR, replacing an old, poorly insulated exterior door can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs. This makes premium fiberglass and steel doors with polyurethane foam cores particularly good clearance finds.

Conclusion

Clearance exterior doors represent an excellent opportunity to enhance your home's security, energy efficiency, and curb appeal without breaking your budget. By understanding what to look for in terms of quality, where to shop, and how to evaluate the true value of discounted doors, you can make an informed purchase decision. Remember that some compromise on selection or perfect aesthetics may be necessary, but the substantial savings often justify these minor concessions. Whether you're replacing a single damaged door or upgrading your home's entire exterior, exploring clearance options should be your first step toward achieving premium results at affordable prices.

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This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.