Winter Door Repairs Will Keep You Warm Even In The Coldest Weather
The furnace is running in peak condition. The windows are sealed against the cold. You’ve got the sweaters and blankets ready to go. You just can’t escape a freezing draft by the door, though! That’s why door repairs are a must before winter settles in for the long haul.
Proper maintenance and door repairs can help when it’s time to get ready for the colder months. In a city like Ottawa, doors have to take a lot; changing temperatures and sudden shifts in humidity can cause the frame to warp, preventing the door from sitting properly, causing drafts when the weather changes.
How do you spot these issues, though? Here are six things to check to help determine if you’re in need of door repairs:
Caulking
Caulking acts as the primary sealant around your door , so it makes sense that it’s the first stop on your door repairs checklist. If you spot cracks, missing pieces, or even discoloration in the caulking, it needs to be repaired.
Locks And Handles
Are your locks and door handles loose to the touch? Do they rattle when the door closes? If they do, make sure to get them tightened up or replaced. Any gap in your door or its hardware is just another access point for cold air, giving it a way to sneak into your home while letting the warm air escape.
Door Frames
Check the finish on your door’s frame. Is the paint chipped and flaking? It might not seem like much, but the finish is another layer of protection against the damp from outside. Flaking, chipped finishes mean that moisture’s got a way in.
Moisture is a door’s worst enemy as it wears down wood and other materials. Depending on the extent of the damage, you can refinish the door, but in most cases a full replacement might be necessary.
Air Leakage
Air leakage is caused by ill-fitting or damaged doors and is one of the main culprits for cold drafts inside your home. If you feel a draft even when the door is firmly shut, you need to repair your doors. Ottawa window and door repair experts can locate the cause of the draft and seal it to ensure the door is winter-ready.
Glass Panes
If your exterior doors contain glass panes, make sure they are solid and sealed. Check for moisture build-up in between the panes of glass; if you find moisture the windows need to be replaced or resealed. If moisture can get past the glass, so can cold air.
Weather Stripping
Weather stripping is specifically designed to keep cold inclement weather outside, where it belongs. If it is damaged, it won’t do a very good job doing so. If your weather stripping is chipped, or loose make sure to get it replaced before winter hits.
If you want your home to stay warm this winter and avoid spending a fortune on heating bills, make sure your doors are properly sealed. Check these six items off your list, and your doors will be winter-ready!