In downtown Toronto, there’s no shortage of homes that are outwardly beautiful but reveal some troubling details upon closer inspection. This project was one such case. The home featured a grand stone exterior and a seemingly elegant wooden door, but the reality was far from perfect.
When I arrived, it became clear just how much the existing door had suffered in just five short years. The photos tell part of the story, but here’s a closer look at what we encountered and how we transformed this entryway into something durable, secure, and stunning.
The Problem: A Door That Couldn’t Stand the Test of Time
The original wooden door was a textbook example of style without substance. On the surface, it looked like a premium feature for a “custom” home, but the cracks were literally showing—both in the door itself and in the quality of its installation.
The finish was completely gone, leaving the wood exposed to Toronto’s unpredictable weather. Cracks had formed in the door slab, so much so that you could see daylight through them. To make matters worse, water was leaking inside, causing damage to the interior trim.
It wasn’t just the door that was problematic. Loose stone pieces on the steps, a railing that had separated from its structure, and plumbing issues all pointed to a larger problem: poor build quality in what should have been a high-end home. I couldn’t help but feel for the homeowner, who was left dealing with these issues despite the house being relatively new.
The Solution: A Door Built to Last
For the replacement, we chose a 42-inch-wide, 8-foot-tall fiberglass door—a material that combines the elegance of wood with the durability this home desperately needed. Fiberglass was the perfect choice for this situation, offering resistance to the elements and a factory-painted finish that is far more durable than stain.
To ensure longevity, we went beyond just installing the new door. A waterproof membrane was added underneath to protect against future leaks, and every joint was sealed meticulously to keep water out. The door also features a multipoint lock system, which enhances security and ensures the door remains straight and aligned over time.
Aesthetics Meet Functionality
While functionality was the primary focus, we didn’t overlook the importance of curb appeal. The new door seamlessly integrates with the home’s grand stone façade, elevating the overall look without requiring constant maintenance. The factory-painted finish offers a clean, sophisticated appearance that will stand the test of time, unlike the stained wood finish it replaced.
Reflection: A Lesson in Quality
While I’m proud of the transformation we achieved, this project left me reflecting on the state of some new builds in Toronto. How do builders get away with such poor quality? A home should be a place of comfort and security, not a source of ongoing frustration and costly repairs.
This homeowner was incredibly gracious throughout the process, and it’s always rewarding to see the joy on a client’s face when they realize their home has been truly upgraded. Still, I couldn’t help but feel frustrated on her behalf. This project was a reminder of why quality craftsmanship matters so much and why it’s worth investing in durable, well-built products.
Moving Forward: Another Happy Homeowner
In the end, this was another job well done, and the homeowner couldn’t be happier with the results. The new fiberglass door not only solved the immediate issues but also brought a new sense of security and pride to her home.
At Lusso Design, every project is an opportunity to make a lasting impact, and this one was no exception. While I still shake my head at the condition of the original door, I’m glad we could turn things around and provide a solution that will truly stand the test of time.