Bulkhead doors serve as an exterior entrance to your basement, providing both access and protection from the elements. When bulkhead doors show signs of wear, replace them promptly to prevent water damage and maintain your home’s structural integrity. In the video above, This Old House expert Tom Silva demonstrates the process of replacing old bulkhead doors with new, pre-primed steel ones.

Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Bulkhead Doors

Here are some telltale signs that indicate it’s time for a bulkhead door replacement:

• Doors that don’t sit squarely on their frames
• Significant rust and corrosion on steel doors
• Visible gaps between the door and frame
• Warped or rotten wood doors that no longer latch properly
• Water seepage into the basement around the bulkhead area

Don’t delay replacement once you notice these signs. Waiting too long can lead to water damage and degradation of the frame and foundation underneath, resulting in more extensive and expensive repairs. Water seepage can cause mold growth and structural damage, and pests can find their way into an unsealed basement.