Door Repair - Simple Fixes You Can Do in a Few Easy Steps

It's easy to assume that a door can't be fixed, but there are many simple fixes which can make a huge impact. Let's start by the shimming.

To shim an opening, open the door and then press it with a firm force into the frame. Utilize the block or jack plane to remove small pieces of wood from the binding points.

The Frame

The door frame is an important part of your home. It protects you from water damage and gives your home an attractive appearance. But it is also prone to damage. Door frames can be damaged by harsh weather or burglaries, as well as regular use. If they do, it can result in large gaps, weak latching, and a shabby appearance. Fixing your door's frame can be accomplished in just a few steps.

The first step is to remove the trim, also known as molding, from the door opening. You can use a hammer chisel, or power saw to remove the trim. After the trim is removed, make a note of the measurements and replace it after the repair.

Next, you will need to inspect the door frame for any areas that are decayed or damaged. If you discover any rotten wood, you'll have to replace it. These are usually found at the local hardware store and should be made of the same material as the rest of the door frame. Avoid pressure-treated wood since it is prone to become warped and twisted over time.

After replacing any rotten components of the frame, you'll have to secure it. A good way to achieve this is using a shim, which is basically a piece of wood that is placed between the frame and the wall. The shim can provide additional support to the frame and keep it from moving.

After you've replaced the shims it is a good idea to caulk the frame and sill of your door. This will stop water damage and protect your frame from insects.

You will then need to install your trim again on the door frame. If you are lucky, your old trim may be in good condition, and you could simply screw it back into the frame. If your trim is not in good condition, you'll need to buy new trim and repeat the same procedure.

The Threshold

A threshold for a door is the piece of wood that is used to cover and insulate the space between the door and the floor. It also prevents snow and water from accumulating in the entryway. A properly installed threshold is not just a vital element of your door, but is also an attractive accent to improve the curb appeal of your house. It's time to replace your threshold if it's damaged, worn, or scratched. Installing a new threshold not as easy as slipping it under the casing and nailing it to the frame; it has to be held in place by a series of wood strips, called shims, that are inserted between the frame's two jambs.

Cut the old threshold away from the sides using a circular blade (use carbide blades if you are able). If you are able remove the sub sill, which is the portion of the frame that is under the threshold. If it's decaying, replace it at the same time you replace the threshold.

Use a carpenter’s square to draw the layout lines prior to cutting the threshold. Take note of the right angles for the notches that fit around jambs. Home centers offer thresholds that are cut to match the dimensions of your opening.

Install the shims evenly and be sure to space them. If necessary, you can change the thickness of the shims. However they shouldn't be larger than 1 1/2 inches. It could take some trial and error before you reach a threshold that is comfortable, yet able to move freely.

Test the fit of your new threshold by closing the door and testing how well it opens and Double Glazing Company closes. There shouldn't be any light under the door and the sweep on the bottom of the door should rub against the top of the threshold.

If the threshold is an ideal fit but needs a little more support, apply some construction adhesive on the shims, double glazing company then press them into position beneath the threshold. Repeat the process with additional shims until you get a tight fit that holds up under weight.

The Hinges

Over time, many hinges on doors get rusty and double Glazing company begin to deteriorate. This makes it difficult to close doors. When this happens, it's important to fix the hinge so that the door can be shut and secured correctly. When replacing the hinge, make sure you choose one that is similar in size and upvc shape. You should also make sure that the hinge is placed in the mortise.

Check the hinge to determine whether it is in a loose state. If the hinge is loose it is likely to bind along the door's frame and rub against its strike plate. Check for paint scratches or dents in the frame that indicate the location where the hinge is rubs. If the problem is that the hinge isn't tight enough you can use a screwdriver to tighten it. If the hinge is too loose, you could need to replace it. You can try putting an shim between the door frame and the hinge.

You can straighten the hinge knuckles by bending them using a pair of large tongue-and-groove pliers or an adjustable wrench. You can bend the knuckles by using a large pair of tongue-and groove pliers or a adjustable wrench. It is best to only work on one knuckle at one time, so that you don't bend the hinge leaf.

You might also notice that the hinges on your doors are loose because the screws which hold them in place have been stripped. If this is the case, replace the screws with larger ones to give them more grip on the hinges.

If the hinge isn't damaged, and the screw holes are in good condition, you can use a syringe to inject carpenter's glue into the hinge mortise and joint. Then, screw the hinge back in its place and secure it with an screwdriver or drill. If you're putting in new hinges, it's best to mark the locations of the pilot holes on the door and door frame so that you are certain that the screws are in exactly the same place as the previous ones.

The Hardware

The majority of people don't think too about door knobs, levers and locksets until they stop functioning properly. They are repairable. Replacing a door handle or knob is typically an issue of choosing the piece that best fits the style and finish of your home, and then placing it in place. For doors with exterior doors, it's often recommended to add weather stripping, too.

You could be able to solve the problem of a door that is difficult to open by lubricating your lock assembly. There are many kinds of locks, door handles, and hinges are susceptible to sticking when their wearing surfaces become dry or dirty. Cleaning these parts and keeping them lubricated is a cheap method of ensuring they function in a safe manner.

The most frequent issues with door hardware are loose or broken handle screws, a lock that doesn't turn when you use the key, or hinges that rattle or bind. In most cases, you can tighten the screws or replace them. In some instances however, it's recommended to take the lock and handle from the door, and then sand the spindle and bore holes of the lock cylinder, as well as the escutcheon hole, to ensure that they are clean prior to installing the new hardware.

If doors are difficult to close, you might need to lubricate the locking mechanism with penetrating oil. You can clean and replace hinge pins with longer screws to fix squeaky doors.

If you're replacing a handle, lock or hinge, be sure that the lock you select is compatible with the hole size of your door and jamb. This information is usually available on the packaging or manufacturer's website. For instance, doorknobs or levers need a hole that is a certain spread (the distance from the center of the hole in the lock to the knob). Check the backset to see whether the replacement fits.