How to Repair French Doors
French doors can be an elegant way to connect outdoor and indoor spaces. However, they may face problems over time that require prompt attention for both safety and practicality.
Common issues are the misalignment, sagging and warping of the door frame and sash. Most of these problems can be solved with just a bit of time and effort.
Misaligned locks
Sometimes doors are stuck or misaligned due humidity, swelling of the wood or the house sinking. This could cause the lock bolt or strike plate move out of alignment which requires more force to open and close the door. This also puts extra strain on the lock, which can eventually result in mangled inner-lock components or broken locks altogether. This is a frequent issue that can be resolved through DIY solutions.
In some instances it is possible that a small amount of lubricant might be all you need to make the door more easy to open and close. You can apply a graphite lubricant but make sure it is safe for the door. Before applying the lubricant, clean the door's perimeter with a damp rag to get rid of any debris.
Another method to fix a door hanging out of alignment is to loosen the hinges and then moving them until they are aligned with the door's frame. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws as this could cause damage to the hinges or damage the door.
If your exterior French door isn't closing correctly, it could be a sign that there are obstructions in the lock mechanism. This is usually caused by short screws from the factory that have become loose over time. To fix this, simply replace the screws with longer ones that grab more of the door frames wood.
You can also try adjusting the lock itself, however this will be more difficult and complex. Begin by loosening the knob of the lock or handle using a flathead screwdriver. Then, you can remove the lock assembly by unscrewing it from the cubbyhole and taking it out. Examine it for any obstructions and then rebuild and tighten the screw connections.
If the latch doesn't touch the strike plate, you may need to move the strike plate or enlarge it. If the strike plate is lower or higher than the hole of the latch, this could prevent the lock from closing and may require the assistance of a locksmith. If the hole is too small, you can enlarge it using a file or drill.
Sagging
If your doors are sagging or have gaps between them, it will affect the insulating properties of your home and lower the efficiency of its energy use. These gaps can also obstruct views and create drafts. Fortunately there are simple solutions that can solve these issues.
Begin by tightening the hinges and aligning them correctly. This is usually 10 minutes or less, and will not require any tools. If this does not fix your problem then you may have to replace the hinges since they have likely reached the end of their lifespan.
Over time the weight of your French door may cause them to become slack. To prevent this make sure you tighten all the hinges on your door and test them regularly to ensure they're secure. It is also recommended to keep your hinges lubricated by spraying them with lubricant to prolong their life.
Replace hinges that are damaged or worn out to stop your door from sagging. A new doorknob or freshly painted door can affect the alignment of your French door.
Other causes of sagging include foundation settlement, wear on hinges or improper changes made to your doors. You can fix a sagging door by tightening or changing the hinges.
It is also essential to examine the weather stripping on your doors and to make sure they're functioning properly. If they're not working, you can remove them and replace them.
Additionally, you should periodically look over the wood on the door frame for indications of rotting or warping. These issues can lead to drafts, which can make it harder to use your door. They can also lead to water leakage and other damages to your home.
Popular Mechanics advises that if your doors are sagging, and you've tried all three alternatives, you might have to sand your door jambs using a handplane. To do this, you must remove the doors from the hinges and place them flat on a sawhorse or other sturdy object. Mark the places that need planning, and then use a hand plane to smooth out these areas of the doorjamb.
Leaks
French doors with large glass areas are susceptible to leaks, especially if you live in a region that receives heavy rainfall. If left untreated, these leaks could cause the door frame to rot and the surrounding structure. Fortunately, fixing leaks is a relatively easy task that should only take some time to complete.
Leaks can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
A broken seal
This problem can be resolved by replacing the rubber seal on either side of the threshold with a the new seal. This will ensure a secure fit, which will prevent rainwater from entering your home.
Water is leaking from the sill
This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of a sill pan or a metal sill that isn't watertight. If you find that water is gathering around your French door, call the builder to install sill pans or replace the steel sill with the wooden sill which will be able to resist moisture.
Repair My Windows And Doors can cause fog to build up between the double panes on French doors. This could block the view and decrease their energy efficiency. This can be fixed by replacing the seal with a new one that is able to stop moisture and air from entering.
Loose handles
A handle that isn't tight could be dangerous since it could fall while you are opening or closing your French door. This problem can be fixed by tightening screws or replacing the handle if damaged or worn.
A track stop that's not correctly set can stop doors from sliding in the right way, leading to scratches and jams on the frames. Adding some silicone caulk to the tracks or track stops can help solve this problem. It's also an excellent idea to regularly check for cracks and wear on exterior surfaces of doors and frames to ensure that they are in top condition.
Warping
If you are not careful, your French doors could start warping because of exposure to moisture or heat. It's worth calling in a handyman with experience in repairing French door. They can guide you on the most effective method to repair your doors and make sure that they're safe to shut and open.
If your doors are badly damaged, you may need to replace them entirely. If they're only slightly bent, you may be in a position to straighten them by placing damp towels over the area that is causing problems. The towels should remain in the doors for a few days or even longer until they are completely flattened.
This method is often used on uPVC doors, but it can also be applied to wood doors - provided the wood is well-seasoned. It's important to note that the process is time-consuming and is difficult to achieve especially if the doors are very bent.
If the doors have been stored improperly, this could cause stretching. Keep them away from any construction work that creates a lot of moisture, like decorating and plastering. They should be kept flat on a hard surface.
Another cause of warping is the strike plate being loose. To fix this issue, you'll need to remove the doors and set them up on the sawhorses. Then, you can use a hand plane to remove any excess wood from the top and bottom of each door. It is essential to work in small steps to avoid taking too much wood off the doors, which can cause them to become too thin and fragile.
After the doors have been rehung, fix the strike plate into the appropriate position. If the lock still doesn't work the barrel catch might be catching against the side of the frame. This is usually repaired by applying silicone spray. If that doesn't help the latch, it could need to be replaced.