With temperatures plummeting below freezing and widespread snow soon to hit the UK, we could be in store for a long, cold winter. Be aware that your front doors could be the unfortunate casualty of these sub-zero temperatures and may experience a battering this winter.
Beware:
Wooden doors are the most prone to experience problems during this season because they expand and contract in the winter due to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Before temperatures get too cold, make sure you read these top 4 winter fixes.
1. How to Fix a Door Hat Sticks or Won’t Close
Hinges: A quick fix for sticking doors would be to check the hinges to see if the screws are loose. Tighten any loose screws and make sure the hinges are firmly in place.
What if the screws don’t tighten properly?
Replace smaller screws with longer and thicker ones, or you could use match-sticks as a make shift wall plug.
2. How to Fix a Drafty Door
Door sweep:
If you can fit a piece of folded paper underneath the door then this is an indication that you may need to install a door sweep. Large gaps can increase heat loss and could increase your heating bills.
Risk of ice:
If large spaces on the bottom of the door are left un-kept then it is possible that ice can form underneath and lodge the door. If this happens you will have to leave it to melt so that you don’t damage the door.
Install weather stripping:
There are several types of materials you can use for weather stripping, including rubber, aluminium and wood.
Measure around the frame of the door and cut your weather stripping to length, then attach it using screws or the self-adhesive.
3. How to Clean Mould off a Wooden Door
A short-term fix would be to use mould remover spray on the door or use a mix of bleach and water. In the long-term you should make sure the area around the door is well ventilated.
4. How to Fix a Frozen Door Lock
Heat the lock with a hairdryer:
If you have access to a hairdryer or one from the neighbours, then you can use this to melt the ice in the lock.
DO NOT TRY THESE:
Hot water:
Pouring hot water on the lock can damage the locks, moisture can get trapped inside and cause rusting.
Heat the key:
Using a cigarette lighter to heat a key can actually bend and damage the key.
*BONUS TIP* How to keep your patio doors from freezing shut:
- Before the temperature decreases, clean the patio door tracks with warm water.
- Next, lubricate the tracks with WD-40, this will reduce the chances of it freezing.
- Try to prevent any moisture from building up on the glass by ventilating your home.
- If you have any blinds covering your sliding doors, keep them open on a regular basis in order for warm air in your home to heat the glass quickly.
It May be Time to Change Your Doors
If it’s getting harder to open and close your door it could be a sign that it has warped and it may be time to give your front door a new lease of life! Composite and UPVC doors are one of the most popular choices because of their durability and high U ratings.
We’ve been installing UPVC and Composite doors in the South for over 40 years. We want to hear about your next project, give us a call or email and we’d be happy to chat.
