
When a door starts sticking, squeaking, or refusing to lock, most people immediately ask: “Do I repair it or just replace it?”
The answer depends on three things — damage severity, door material, and how long you plan to keep the property.
Across the GTA, climate swings, humidity, and heavy foot traffic take a serious toll on both residential and commercial doors. Let’s break down how to make the right call.
| Factor | Repair | Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Range (GTA) | $150 – $400 | $900 – $3,000+ |
| Time Required | 30 min – 2 hours | 1 – 2 days |
| Result | Extends lifespan, fixes minor issues | Fresh start with new hardware and warranty |
| Best For | Cosmetic or functional issues | Structural damage or outdated models |
| ROI (Resale Value) | Low–Medium | High |
If your door is structurally sound and only shows minor wear, repair is the smarter investment.
Common repairable issues:
Misaligned or squeaky hinges
Faulty closers or latches
Weather stripping leaks
Small cracks or warps in the frame
Paint chips and surface rust
Benefits of repairing:
Keeps original door aesthetics (important for storefronts or heritage homes)
Costs less than 25% of full replacement
Minimal downtime — especially for commercial sites
Pro Tip: If a technician can repair your door in under two hours, replacement is rarely worth it.
Certain problems go beyond repair. If any of these apply, replacement becomes more economical and safer long-term:
| Symptom | Root Cause | Why Replacement Wins |
|---|---|---|
| Door frame is warped or cracked | Moisture, impact damage | Structural weakness spreads fast |
| Door no longer seals | Aging or distortion | Energy loss + water intrusion |
| Recurrent lock or alignment problems | Frame shift, poor installation | Re-repairing costs add up |
| Visible rot or rust | Moisture exposure | Safety & aesthetics compromised |
| Door looks outdated | Old design or poor energy rating | Hurts property value & curb appeal |
A new door also allows you to upgrade to energy-efficient, insulated, or security-rated models that lower bills and meet today’s building codes.
| Door Type | Repair Estimate | Replacement Estimate | Common Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel Commercial Door | $250 – $450 | $1,200 – $2,800 | Retail stores, offices |
| Aluminum Glass Door | $300 – $500 | $1,500 – $3,000 | Storefronts, restaurants |
| Wood Entry Door | $200 – $400 | $1,000 – $2,000 | Residential homes |
| Automatic Sliding Door | $400 – $800 | $2,500 – $5,000 | Commercial buildings |
GTA weather is brutal on door systems — freeze-thaw cycles cause warping, and humid summers rust metal frames.
When your door no longer seals tight, you’re paying extra on energy bills. A new insulated steel or fiberglass door can improve efficiency by up to 30%, saving hundreds annually.
Toronto Core: Businesses prefer energy-efficient aluminum and tempered-glass doors.
Mississauga & Oakville: Homeowners invest in insulated steel for durability.
Brampton & Vaughan: Industrial sites upgrade to fire-rated or automatic doors for compliance.
Integrum tracks these local demands to recommend hardware that suits both budget and climate.
Honest assessment — repair first, replace only when needed
Technicians specialized in all door types: wood, steel, glass, aluminum
Full-service shop: fabrication, installation, and hardware upgrades
Licensed, insured, and 24/7 available across the GTA
We’ve helped hundreds of GTA businesses and homeowners avoid unnecessary replacements — and guided many others toward smarter upgrades.
Whether it’s a quick hinge fix or a full commercial replacement, we’ll tell you the truth — not what makes the biggest invoice. Call +1 844-228-4012 or visit Integrum-Locksmith-Doors.ca to schedule a free on-site evaluation.
Let your doors work as hard as you do — safely, smoothly, and efficiently.
Ready to continue with Article #5: “How Winter in the GTA Affects Your Glass and Door Systems” in the same layout (tables, pro formatting, and local SEO)?
Feel free to contact us, and We will be more than happy to answer all of your questions.