When it comes to first impressions, your front entry sets the tone for your entire home. In this Lenexa project, our handyman services team transformed a dated, drafty, and cramped entryway into a modern, functional, and energy-efficient focal point. By improving insulation, widening the opening, and upgrading the overall design, we created a space that not only looks stunning but also works better for everyday life. From eliminating cold drafts to enhancing curb appeal, this project proves how impactful the right updates can be. This project was so well done, it brought home a Gold REMY Award for Residential Exterior Element at the 2025 REMY awards!
Table of Contents
The Challenge: Outdated and Inefficient Entryway
To begin with, the original front entry presented three major issues.
It felt narrow, cluttered, and out of proportion for the home’s scale. Even more importantly, the old north-facing door allowed a constant cold draft, making the interior uncomfortable and inefficient.
On top of that, the design lacked presence. Instead of welcoming guests, the entry felt understated and dated. Our goal was clear: improve comfort, increase functionality, and create a bold, updated look. This was something our Lenexa handyman services team was eager to help with!
Our Approach: Smart, High-Impact Improvements
With these challenges in mind, our Lenexa handyman services team, led by Troy Stout, focused on three clear goals.
- Eliminate energy loss
- Improve accessibility and flow
- Create a bold, modern exterior statement
By combining structural changes with design upgrades, we ensured every improvement served both function and style.
Key Upgrades
1. Energy-Efficient Door Replacement
First, we tackled the issue that mattered most to the homeowners—energy loss. Troy helped our clients select an energy efficient door and transom. Our handyman team on site for the project consisted of Lester Withers, Armando Vanegas, and Montana Ralstin. The guys removed the old door system and created a larger opening to install a high-performance Marvin Ultimate Clad Door and Transom System.
Before we could install the doors and transom we had to focus on the size of the space.
2. Widened Entryway for Better Flow
Next, we focused on how the space functions day to day. The original opening felt tight and restrictive, especially when moving furniture or welcoming guests.
To solve this, our team widened the entryway before installing the new door, creating the proper opening for both the new doors and the transom. As a result, the persistent draft disappeared immediately once the new insulated system was in place. Not only did this upgrade improve indoor comfort, but it also eliminated the need for a storm door altogether.
In addition, the transom window above the door now allows natural light to flow deeper into the home, making the entry feel brighter and more inviting. With these changes, the space is now fully accessible, and the scale feels much more aligned with the home’s grand front façade, creating a more balanced and intentional first impression.
3. Modern Exterior Design Elements
To elevate curb appeal, we introduced:
- A bold black door finish
- Coordinated shutters for visual balance
- Updated exterior lighting
- Large, highly visible modern house numbers that could be seen from the street and front gate, which is about half a mile from the home's front door
These elements work together to create a cohesive, high contrast look that enhances the home’s architecture.
We also installed a new chandelier fixture to compliment the modern feel.
Craftsmanship That Makes the Difference
This project required more than cosmetic updates. To accommodate the new, wider door, our team carefully removed brick from the roofline down to the foundation.
We then installed temporary structural support to safely maintain the home’s integrity while modifying the opening. After reframing, we seamlessly integrated the new door system and matched the brickwork, so it blends naturally with the existing exterior.
Inside, we installed custom-milled trim that perfectly matches the rest of the home. These thoughtful details ensure the finished space feels cohesive and high-end.
Attention to detail included:
- Seamless brick and mortar matching
- Custom trim work to align with existing interior finishes
- Precision framing for a flawless door installation
We also solved a unique interior challenge by designing trim that concealed wall cuts, avoiding the need to replicate a complex faux paint finish which saved time and cost for the homeowner.
The Final Result: A Modern, Welcoming Facade
In the end, this Lenexa entryway transformation delivered on every level. The space is now warmer, brighter, and significantly more functional. At the same time, the updated design creates a bold, modern statement that enhances the home’s curb appeal.
The sleek black door and modern black house numbers instantly elevate the entry, giving it a bold, updated look while still complementing the home’s more transitional style. By contrast, where the previous door and transom once blended in and went unnoticed, these darker elements now create definition and visual interest. As a result, the front entry feels more intentional and balanced, allowing it to stand out in all the right ways.
The finished entry is now:
- Warmer and more energy-efficient
- Easier to navigate and use daily
- Visually striking from both the street and up close
The combination of clean lines, timeless color choices, and balanced proportions created a dramatic yet timeless update that complements the home’s original character.
From improved energy efficiency to better flow and elevated style, this project highlights what’s possible with the right handyman team. In fact, the homeowners loved the results so much, they immediately brought us back for additional projects.
This project even won a Gold REMY Award for Residential Exterior Element!
Not only that, but our team also had a fun night celebrating this project alongside many others, making it an even more memorable experience. Moments like these are a testament to the hard work, creativity, and craftsmanship that go into every project we take on.
Montana, Troy, and Kirk from our Handyman Team at the REMY Awards.
Why This Matters for Homeowners
This project is a great example of how strategic handyman services can completely transform a home’s exterior without a full renovation.
Whether you’re dealing with drafts, outdated design, or a poor layout, targeted improvements—like door replacement, entry expansion, and exterior upgrades—can, in turn, deliver:
- Better comfort and energy savings
- Improved functionality
- Increased curb appeal and home value
Ultimately, if your front entry feels outdated or inefficient, a thoughtful upgrade can make a bigger impact than you might expect.
Ready to upgrade your home? Whether you’re dealing with a drafty door, an outdated entry, or a space that just isn’t working the way it should, our handyman services team is here to help. From small, high-impact fixes to full-scale transformations, we bring the same level of craftsmanship to every project.
And if you’re thinking bigger—like a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, home addition, or finishing out a basement office or bedroom—our remodeling team has you covered there too.
Our team is inspiring people to love their homes, contact us today to start your remodeling journey!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the benefits of replacing a front entry door?
Replacing your front entry door can significantly improve energy efficiency, eliminate drafts, increase security, and boost curb appeal. In addition, modern doors are designed with better insulation and sealing, which helps maintain indoor temperatures and reduce energy bills.
How do I know if my front door is causing energy loss?
Common signs include noticeable drafts, cold air near the entry, higher energy bills, and difficulty maintaining consistent indoor temperatures. In many cases, older or improperly sealed doors are a major source of heat loss, especially in colder climates.
Is widening a front doorway worth it?
It depends on a few factors. Who and what is coming in and out of the door regularly? How large is the front of your home, and what is the scale of the garage and windows like?
In general, widening a front entryway improves both functionality and accessibility. It makes it easier to move furniture, improves daily traffic flow, and creates a more open, welcoming entrance. Additionally, it can enhance the overall look of your home’s exterior.
For this large home, adding the French doors made the entrance feel more intentional and grander, which was appropriate for the scale of the rest of the home.
How can I modernize my home’s exterior without a full renovation?
Fortunately, you can achieve a modern look with targeted upgrades such as:
- Installing a new front door
- Updating exterior lighting
- Adding large, modern house numbers
- Painting or refinishing key elements like doors and shutters
- Installing new windows
- An intentional landscaping plan
These changes offer a high visual impact without the cost of a full remodel. Check out our list of other exterior repairs and improvements our handyman team can check off your to-do list.
If you're looking for other exterior project inspiration, check out our exterior gallery.
What is the best type of front door for energy efficiency?
High-quality insulated doors made from fiberglass, steel, or clad wood systems are among the best options. When selecting a door, look for options with tight seals, energy-efficient glass, and durable construction to maximize performance.
How much does a front entry remodel typically cost?
Costs can vary depending on the scope of work. For instance, a basic front door replacement may cost a few thousand dollars, while a full entry remodel—including widening the opening and completing structural modifications—can fall into a higher range. Over time, however, this investment often pays off through improved energy efficiency and increased home value.
Because every home starts from a different place and has a different end goal, pricing is highly specific to your project. If you’re considering an update to your entryway, contact us today and our handyman sales solutions team will connect with you to provide a clearer understanding of what your project could look like with our team. Read more about our handyman consultation process here.
Can a handyman teams handle structural changes like widening a doorway?
Yes—experienced handyman teams like the Schloegel Handyman Team can handle structural changes such as widening a doorway. With strong framing expertise, our team can safely manage doorway expansions while maintaining the integrity and stability of the home. However, because structural modifications require careful planning and proper support, we always approach these projects with a high level of precision and accountability to ensure the home remains safe, sound, and structurally secure.
When you work with our handyman services, you can take care of your home without the stress of coordinating multiple contractors and schedules and price points. Instead, you work directly with a professional team that communicates clearly, arrives prepared, and treats your home with respect from start to finish.
In addition to structural work, our team regularly handles a wide range of focused improvements, including wood rot repair, siding and trim repairs, exterior painting and sealing, and other essential exterior fixes that protect and maintain your home over time.
With over 400 five-star reviews, homeowners consistently tell us the same things set our work apart. First, they value a team they can trust—built on decades of experience and a long-standing reputation for doing things the right way. Next, they appreciate clear communication, from the first conversation through project completion, where we keep everything simple, transparent, and easy to understand. Finally, they notice our respect for their home, shown through clean job sites, careful preparation, and an attention to detail that reflects our high standards of excellence.
Because of this approach, many homeowners start with handyman services and continue relying on our team as a long-term partner for ongoing care and future remodeling projects.
What are the best upgrades for improving curb appeal?
When it comes to curb appeal, some of the most effective upgrades include:
- Replacing or repainting the front door
- Installing modern lighting fixtures
- Updating house numbers
- Refreshing trim and shutters
- Repairing or updating brick and exterior finishes
These improvements can dramatically enhance the look of your home.
How long does a front entry renovation take?
A simple door replacement may take one to two days, while a more complex project involving structural changes, brickwork, and custom finishes can take a couple of weeks depending on the scope.
Will a new front door increase home value?
Yes, upgrading your front entry is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase home value. Not only does it improve first impressions, but it also enhances energy efficiency and overall functionality, which are all key factors that appeal to potential buyers.
What should I look for in handyman services in Lenexa, KS?
Look for professionals with experience in the service area you're looking for in this case, exterior home improvements, door installations, and structural modifications. Strong attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, and knowledge of energy-efficient materials are key indicators of a reliable handyman service. Our team has proudly served the Kansas City area for over 45 years and consistently provides the ultimate client experience through our process.
Ready to refresh your exterior? Contact us to start the conversation!