Summertime brings warmth, sunshine, and a wide array of outdoor activities. While we often focus on maintaining our pools, lawns, and air conditioning systems, one often overlooked aspect of home care is door maintenance. Doors bear the brunt of summer’s harsh elements, including intense heat, humidity, and frequent use.
Neglecting door care can lead to costly repairs or door replacements, which is the last thing you want during this season. In this post, the team at Family Windows & Doors aims to provide practical tips to help you with door maintenance throughout the summer months.
1. Inspect for Expansion and Warping
Summer is often characterized by intense heat and humidity, which can wreak havoc on door materials, causing them to expand and warp. Early detection is crucial to prevent irreversible damage. So, carefully examine your doors for signs of trouble, such as difficulty opening or closing, gaps appearing around the frame, or a noticeable bow in the door panel.
Use a level to confirm if the door hangs plumb and square. Any deviation indicates potential warping. Remember, wood is particularly susceptible to these changes due to its natural properties.
2. Adjust and Tighten Hardware
Summer’s heat can loosen screws and other door hardware, leading to sagging doors and compromised security. Regularly inspect hinges, handles, and locks for signs of loosening. Tighten any loose screws using a screwdriver or drill. If hinges are sagging, adjust them accordingly to restore proper alignment. For heavier doors, consider upgrading to longer screws for added security.
3. Clean and Protect Glass
Summer’s dusty conditions can quickly obscure the clarity of glass door panels. Regular cleaning is essential, not only for aesthetic purposes, but also to prevent scratches that can compromise the glass’s integrity. This is a quick and easy way to incorporate regular door maintenance into your regular cleaning.
Cleaning Tips:
- Use a mixture of mild soap and water to clean glass panels. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the glass.
- For tougher stains, consider using a dedicated glass cleaner. Wipe with a soft cloth to prevent scratches.
- While cleaning, inspect the glass for cracks or chips. Small chips can be repaired to prevent further damage, while larger cracks may necessitate replacement.
4. Inspect and Repair Screen Doors
Screen doors experience heavy use during the summer, making them susceptible to damage from accidental bumps, pets, or even strong winds. Regularly inspect your screen door for tears, holes, or loose frames.
Small tears can often be repaired using a screen repair kit, but for more extensive damage, replacing the entire screen may be necessary. Consider investing in a thicker gauge screen for added durability in high-traffic areas. It’s best to implement this door maintenance early on to prevent more costly repairs or replacements.
5. Lubricate Hinges and Locks
The summer’s heat can also cause wood to swell, leading to sticky doors and increased friction on hinges and locks. Regular lubrication is essential for smooth operation and preventing premature wear and tear. It’s also an easy door maintenance tip that can lead to the longevity of your doors.
Opt for a silicone-based lubricant designed for exterior use, as it resists heat and humidity better than traditional oils. Apply lubricant generously to hinges and lock mechanisms, wiping away any excess to prevent dirt buildup.
6. Paint and Refinish
Summer’s warm, dry weather provides ideal conditions for repainting or refinishing doors. Proper preparation, however, is key to achieving a long-lasting and attractive finish. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the door surface to remove dirt, grime, and old paint flakes.
Sand the surface to create an even base for the new paint. Choose a high-quality exterior paint formulated to withstand harsh weather conditions, including UV rays and moisture. Apply multiple coats for optimal protection.
7. Check and Replace Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping plays a crucial role in energy efficiency and preventing drafts. Over time, weatherstripping can deteriorate due to exposure to the elements. As such, you’ll want to regularly inspect weatherstripping for signs of wear, such as cracking, tearing, or hardening.
Replace damaged weatherstripping promptly to maintain a tight seal and prevent energy loss. You may also want to consider upgrading to foam weatherstripping for superior insulation.
8. Maintain Door Frames
Door frames are often overlooked but are essential for the overall performance and security of your doors. Regularly inspect door frames for cracks, gaps, or signs of rot. Small cracks can be repaired with wood filler, while larger issues may require professional attention.
Caulk any gaps to prevent air infiltration and moisture intrusion. For severe damage, consider replacing the affected section of the frame. Regular door maintenance can prevent long-term damage.
9. Boost Your Home’s Security
Summer often means leaving doors open for ventilation or to savor the outdoors. While prioritizing comfort, it’s crucial to maintain home security. Invest in high-quality door locks with deadbolts for added protection. Consider installing security cameras to deter intruders.
Regularly check the condition of exterior lighting, ensuring it functions properly to illuminate entryways. Trim back bushes and foliage around doors to prevent hiding spots for potential intruders.
Do You Need More Than Door Maintenance Tips? Family Windows & Doors is Here to Help
Door maintenance during the summer is not just about preserving their aesthetic appeal but also ensuring their functionality and longevity. The high temperatures and humidity of the season can cause a range of issues, from warping and swelling to loosening hardware and degraded weatherstripping.
By proactively addressing these problems through regular inspections and maintenance, timely adjustments, and proper cleaning, you can prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs.
Is your door beyond help? If you need professional assistance or a full door replacement, don’t hesitate to call Family Windows & Doors. We offer expert door installation services and inspections to keep your doors in top condition.
Our team of professionals is equipped with the knowledge and tools to address your door-related woes. Call us today 864-982-0957 to schedule a in-home estimate or to learn more about our services.
