Troubleshooting problems with your doors can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the mechanics of the door itself. Here are some tips for dealing with some of the most common door problems, and where to get quality doors in Toronto.
The Door Lets in Cold Draughts
Insulation is key for dealing with cold draughts coming through your doors. Make sure you have the correct weatherstripping around your door and that the seals are in good condition. If this doesn’t fix the problem, you may want to consider replacing the door itself.
Squeaking Noises or Cracking
When a door squeaks, there are a few reasons it might be happening. The most common cause is that the door is rubbing against the frame or hinges. Try lubricating the hinges and making sure the door is properly aligned. If the door is cracking, it could be due to humidity or a lack of maintenance. Inspect the door for any signs of rot and other common causes for these issues
The Door Doesn’t Latch or Close Properly
The latch where the door meets the frame is often the culprit when a door won’t close or latch properly. Make sure the latch is properly aligned and that the screws are tight. If the latch is still not working properly, the frame might be the issue. Inspect the frame and check the height of the door. It could also be an issue with the latch on the handle, in which case it’s best to replace the handle and latch completely.
The Door Sticks in The Frame
You know the feeling – you go to open the door and you get a lot more resistance than expected. Why? Doors can stick due to humidity or a lack of maintenance. Inspect the door and frame to make sure they are properly aligned and that all the screws are tight. If the door is still sticking, you may need to sand and refinish the door or replace it altogether.
It Drags on the Carpet Too Much
If your carpets are getting worn down and frayed due to your door dragging on them, you’ll want to fix this problem ASAP. The easiest solution is to replace the carpet with a thicker and more durable material. If that isn’t an option, you may need to adjust the hinges and make sure the door is properly aligned so it drags on the carpet less.
Handles Hit the Wall
It might not seem like a problem if the door covers the wall most of the time, but if the door handle repeatedly hits the wall, it can end up causing dents, scratched paint, and even a hole in the wall. It could end up being serious damage that looks terrible, especially when the door is closed. A doorstop at the base of the wall can help prevent the handle from hitting it.
The Door Won’t Stay Open
If your door won’t stay open, it’s likely due to either a malfunctioning hinge or too much weight pushing against it. Check the hinge to make sure it’s properly aligned and lubricated, and consider adding a doorstop to hold it open if needed. If the weight of the door is causing it to swing closed, try reducing the weight with lighter door materials.
The Bottom Wall Plates are Misaligned
If the bottom wall plates of your door are misaligned, it can cause the door to stick or not close properly. You can try adjusting the screws and hinges to see if that fixes the problem, or you may need to replace the hinges entirely.
The Door is Uneven at the Top
If you find that your door is uneven at the top, it’s usually a sign of an underlying problem with the hinges. Make sure the hinges are properly aligned and that all the screws are tight. It could also be a problem with the shape of the door. Check that the wood and or material of the door is not warped or damaged.
It is Warping
Warping is a common issue with wooden or metal doors, and it can be caused by several factors, including humidity, temperature changes, and improper installation. If you find that your door is warping, you may need to replace it because it’s likely beyond repair.
The Trim Doesn’t Fit
If your door trim doesn’t fit properly, it usually means that it was either incorrectly installed or that the door has shifted over time. You can try to readjust the trim and make sure it’s properly aligned, or you may need to replace the trim altogether.
It Continually Closes on Its Own
If your door is continually closing on its own, you may need to adjust the doorstop or the weight of the door itself. Adjusting the doorstop is the easiest solution, but if that doesn’t work, you may need to reduce the weight of the door with lighter materials.
Hinge Problems
Hinge problems are common, and can be caused by several factors, including wear and tear, improper installation, or changes in temperature and humidity. Make sure the screws are tight and the hinges are properly aligned. If that doesn’t fix the problem, you may need to replace the hinges altogether.
Why Door Manufacturers Can Help With All These Problems
Having door problems is never good, especially when it’s a door that gets a lot of use. High-traffic doors can be prone to wear and tear, but that doesn’t mean they need to be replaced. Working with a reputable door manufacturer can help you troubleshoot the issue and find the right solution. A quality manufacturer can also provide advice on how to maintain and repair your doors, as well as provide you with quality doors in Toronto.
Making a custom new door from scratch that fits your exact specifications is an option as well. Working with a door manufacturer can make the process much easier, and you can be sure that the door will be professionally made and properly installed.
Best Materials for Doors
There are a few popular materials for doors right now that not only look great but prevent some of the above issues from happening. Of course, wood is the most popular door material. However, not all wood and the thickness of wood are the same. For example, if you want a heavier and more durable door, you should look into hardwood such as mahogany, oak, or walnut. If you want something a bit more lightweight, you can choose pine or other softwoods.
Another popular option is fiberglass. Fiberglass is a durable material that is resistant to scratches, dents, and warping. It’s also energy efficient and has a great finish.
Finally, steel doors are a great option for security and durability. Steel doors are not only strong and secure, but they are also fire-resistant. They are also relatively low maintenance and last for decades and get outfitted with glass inserts.
Maintenance for Doors
Your door is an investment in your home that makes a huge difference not just for its look, but for your life in the home. For the most part, there are a few things you can do maintenance-wise to keep your door in good shape and avoid the worst problems, which might ultimately result in the need for replacing components or the entire door.
The first is checking and lubricating your door’s hinges, screws, and other hardware. This will help keep the door running smoothly and prevent it from sticking, squeaking, or not closing properly.
You should also check the weather stripping around the door to make sure it’s in good condition. You should also inspect the door for any damage or warping, and sand, and refinish it if needed.
Finally, you should check the door frame and make sure it’s properly aligned. This can help prevent the door from sticking, dragging on the carpet, or not latching properly.
These maintenance tips should help you keep your door in good condition and avoid any major issues.
Regular maintenance is also important for doors that see a lot of use or that are battling the elements. Consider weatherproofing the door if it’s exposed to the elements, and consult with a professional if you need more advice. Maintaining your doors and catching problems as they happen is the best way to ensure that small problems don’t become big ones, costing you much more down the line.
Conclusion
Dealing with problems with your doors can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right knowledge and help from a quality door manufacturer, you can troubleshoot the issue and find the right solution. Whether it’s a new door or just a few adjustments, you can make sure your door is functioning properly, looking great, and protecting your home.
Get Doors in Toronto From Master Doors
Master Doors crafts some of the finest and most beautiful handcrafted solid wood doors. Our highly skilled team of craftsmen uses only the finest materials to create doors that are both beautiful and functional. Our doors are built to last and can resist the toughest of weather conditions. We offer a variety of doors in different styles, woods, and finishes to fit your needs.
We make and install everything from modern wood doors to traditional and classic wood doors. If your home is a new build, we work with you to make the door match key elements like trim and color to create a cohesive look.
If you’re looking to buy doors in Toronto, Master Doors is your go-to destination. Get in touch today to learn more about our doors and what we can do for you by getting a quote.
