7 Things You've Never Knew About Door Repair
Door Repair - Simple Fixes You Can Do in a Few Easy Steps
While it's easy to think that a door isn't repairable There are many easy fixes that can make a huge difference. Let's start with shifting.
To shim a door open the door and press it against the frame. Use a block plane or a jack plane to remove small amounts of wood from the points of binding.
The Frame
The door frame is one of the most important parts of your home. It offers security, protects against water damage, and gives your home an attractive appearance. upvc window repairs is prone to be damaged. Door frames can be damaged by bad weather or burglaries, or simply normal use. When they do, this can result in massive holes, poor latching, and an unattractive appearance. Repairing your door frame can be accomplished in just a few steps.
The first step is to remove the trim, or molding, from your door opening. This can be done with either a hammer or chisel or a power saw. After the trim is removed, take note of the measurements and replace it following the repair.
You will then need to look over any damaged or rotten areas of the door frame. If you find any rotten areas, you will have to buy and replace the wood pieces. They are typically found at your local hardware shop and should be constructed of a material that matches the rest your door frame. It is recommended not to using pressure-treated wood since it tends to warp and twist over time.
After replacing any damaged or rotten parts of the frame, you'll have to ensure that it is secure in place. One method to do this is by using a shim, which is essentially a piece of wood that sits between the frame and the wall. The shim can provide additional support for the frame and keep it from moving.
After you've replaced the shims, it is a good idea to seal the frame and the sill of your door. This will stop future water damage and shield the frame from pests.
Then, you'll need to install the trim again on your door frame. If you're lucky enough, the old trim might still be in good condition and you can just nail it back in place. If not, you'll require a new trim and follow the same steps.
The Threshold
A threshold for a door is the strip of wood that covers and insulates the gap between a door and floor. It also assists in preventing snow and water from accumulating in the entryway. Besides being an essential element of the door, a properly installed threshold can also be a gorgeous accent that adds to your home's curb appeal. It's time to replace your threshold if it is damaged, worn out, or scratched. Installing a threshold is more complex than simply sliding it into the casing and then nailing it in place. It must be supported by shims that are put between the frame's two jambs.
To remove the old threshold first, cut it away from the door's sides frame using circular saw (use a carbide blade if you can). If possible take out the sub sill, which is the portion of the frame that runs beneath the threshold. If it's rotting, replace it at the same time as you replace the threshold.
Use a carpenter’s square to draw the layout lines prior to cutting the threshold. Note the angles that are right for the notches that are able to fit around jambs. Home centers sell pre-cut thresholds to fit the width of your opening.
Install the shims evenly and be sure to space them evenly. If needed, you may change the thickness of the shims. However they should not exceed 1 1/2 inches. It might require some trial and error to reach a threshold that is just right, but still able to move freely.
Check the fitting of your new threshold by closing the door and testing the ease with which it closes and opens. There shouldn't be any light beneath the door, and the sweep at the bottom of the door should lightly rub the top of the threshold.
If the threshold fits well but requires some additional support, apply a construction adhesive to the shims before pressing them into the threshold. Repeat the procedure with additional shims until you have a snug fit that holds up under the weight.
The Hinges
A lot of hinges for doors become rusty or degrade over time, making it harder to close the door. It is important to fix the hinge in order to secure and close the door properly. If you're replacing the hinge ensure you use the same hinge that is a good match in terms of size and edge shape. Also, ensure that the hinge is located in the mortise.
First, check the hinge for looseness. If the hinge is loose, it will likely bind along the door's frame and rub against the strike plate. Check for paint scratches or indents on the frame to indicate where the hinge is rubbing. If the hinge is not tight enough then tighten it up using an screwdriver. If the hinge is still loose, you could try a wedge between the frame of the door and the hinge, or you could need to replace it entirely.
If the problem is that the hinge knuckles (the cylinders through which the hinge pin goes) are bent in a way, you'll need to straighten them up so that they point toward the jamb on the latch. This can be done by gently bent the knuckles using a pair of tongue-and-groove pliers, or an adjustable wrench, but it is best to work on a single knuckle at a time so that you don't accidentally bend the hinge leaf out of its mortise.
You may also find that your door hinges are loose because the screws which hold them in place have stripped. If this is the case, you can replace the screws to give them a better grip on the hinges.
If the hinge is not damaged and the screw holes are in good condition, use a syringe and inject carpenter's glue into the joint and mortise of the hinge. Then screw the hinge back in its place and secure it with a drill or screwdriver. If you're putting in new hinges it's best to mark the locations of the pilot holes on the door and the door frame so that you can be certain that the screws are in exactly the same place as the hinges that were previously installed.
The Hardware
Most people don't pay much attention to door knobs, locks or levers until they stop functioning properly. Most of these components are repairable. It is usually a simple matter of selecting the best piece that will match the style and finish on your house, and then installing it. For doors that are outside it's usually an excellent idea to include weather stripping, too.
If you have a door that is difficult to open, you might be able solve the problem by lubricating the lock assembly. A lot of hinges, handles and locks may become stuck when their wear surfaces get dirty or dry. Cleaning these parts and keeping them lubricated is a cheap method of ensuring they function correctly.
The most frequent problems with door hardware are broken or loose handle screws, a lock that doesn't turn when you insert the key, and hinges that squeak or become bind. In the majority of cases you can tighten the screws or replace them altogether. However, in certain situations it's best to take the handle or lock from the door and then sand the spindle, lock cylinder bore hole and escutcheon holes ensure that they are clean prior to installing new hardware.
If you have a door that is difficult to close, it might be necessary to lubricate the locking mechanism with penetrating oil. Clean and reinstall hinge pins with longer screws to repair squeaky doors.
If you're looking to replace a handle, lock or hinge, be certain to choose a product that is compatible with the current hole size in your door and jamb. You'll typically find this information in the packaging or on the website of the manufacturer. For instance, doorknobs and levers require a hole that is specific in its spread (the distance from the center of the lock hole to the knob). It is also important to determine the backset of the replacement as it will determine if it's suitable for your door.