Having a door that protects your home from the harsh conditions of Edmonton, as well as providing you with security, insulation, and curb appeal, is very important. Because of exposure to the elements, wear and tear on doors, and movement within the structure of the home, doors can develop issues over time.
Let’s explore common door problems in Edmonton homes, how to recognize them, and when to repair or replace your doors. Insuring that you are knowledgeable about the issues a heritage or modern home has will help you make an informed and cost-effective, as well as long-term, decision.
Common Door Problems in Edmonton Homes and How to Fix Them
Homeowners in Edmonton have a tough time during the winter months due to extreme climate conditions, drastic temperature changes and moisture problems that arise. These specific weather elements have an effect on how long and well doors perform.
Let’s explore the most frequent issues.
- Drafty Doors and Heat Loss
People living in Edmonton complain that cold air comes in through the door during the winter.
Why It Happens
- Weatherstripping
- Gaps between the door and the frame
- Warping caused by the differences in temperature
When to Repair
- Put new weatherstripping on
- Adjust either the door or hinge
- Put a door sweep on your door to keep the air out
When to Replace
- If your door is warped beyond repair
- If your door does not perform as well as it uses to
By installing high-quality, energy-efficient doors in Edmonton you will save money on heating costs.
2. Difficulty Opening or Closing Doors
If you have problems opening or closing your door, it may be because of an alignment issue.
Causes
- Seasonal expansion & contraction
- Foundation settlement
- Loose/damaged hinges
When to Repair
- Tighten or replace hinges
- Sand/plane the edge of the door
- Realign door frame
When to Replace
- If the frame has been permanently shifted from the structure
- If repairs do not work repeatedly
3. Moisture Damage and Rot (Especially in Wooden Doors)
Moisture is a major problem in the homes of Edmontonians, especially during snowmelt & rains.
Signs
- Soft, crumbling wood
- Paint peeling & finish bubbling
- Mold & mildew growth visible
When to Repair
- Surface damage can be sanded down and re-finished
- Many small defects can be filled or patched
When to Replace
- Extensive rot compromising the structure
- Frame is damaged and will no longer provide security
If your door is requiring repair in Edmonton, get it repaired as early as possible and save money.
4. Broken Locks or Security Issues
A lock’s security is perhaps its main function.
<h3style=”font-weight: 400;”>Common Problems
- Faulty locks
- Misalignment of the strike plate
- Loose handles or knobs
When to Repair
- Changing the lock or hardware
- Realigning the strike plate
When to Replace
- The strength and integrity of the door
- Changing or upgrading to current security standards
5. Cracks, Dents, and Cosmetic Damage
A door will show its age as time passes.
When to Repair
- Filling or patching
- Repainting or refinishing to improve its appearance
When to Replace
- There is very deep crack in the structure of the door
- The door is relatively warped or damaged
Maintaining your doors is an important part of your overall home exterior maintenance in Edmonton.
6. Glass Panel Damage or Fogging
Doors with glass panels may experience condensation as a result of condensation on the glass or due to cracks in the glass.
Causes
- Seals have failed
- Temperature variations
- Impact or damage caused by other objects
When to Repair
- Replacing the glass panel
- Re-sealing minor issues
When to Replace
- If several panels have incurred damage or
- If the insulation value of the door has diminished due to the damage incurred.
Repair vs Replace: How to Decide
There are a number of factors that you need to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace something. Here are some examples:
Choose Repair If:
- The damage is small and isolated
- The structure of the door is still structurally sound
- If you’re looking for an inexpensive fix
Choose Replacement If:
- There are multiple recurring issues
- The door has low energy efficiency
- The door is no longer securing the home
Special Consideration for Heritage Homes
Heritage properties (especially those found in heritage neighbourhoods of Edmonton) usually have a strong desire to keep original doors.
Instead of replacing the door, if possible, you should restore the door to maintain its authenticity.
You may also want to upgrade the door, which could include anything from installing foam insulation in the door to installing weather striping around the edges.
Why Professional Assessment Matters
A professional assessment is important because even though some door problems are easy to fix, many require expert help. Failure to fix the problem properly can lead to more damage or a reduced lifetime of the door.
At Perma Seal Windows and Doors, we focus on looking for the root cause of your door issues when we inspect your door, not simply looking for surface problems. This will ensure that your door will perform at its best for many years to come.
Conclusion
The harshness of Edmonton’s climate and the age of its material present very specific challenges for the doors in the house. Homeowners can take proper action against issues like draftiness, water infiltration, and misalignment/installation by knowing what they are up against.
No matter whether you choose to repair or replace, either option can give you and your family comfort, energy efficiency, and security. The key is to use the correct method so your home is not only protected but will retain its attractiveness.
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