How to Restore a Composite Door
Composite doors are constructed of 17 layers of laminated wood and a solid core. They can help keep you warm and safe. However, these doors may be damaged due to breaking-ins and the forces that are imposed on them.
Common problems include cracks, misalignment of door and gaps around the frame. Fortunately, the majority of these issues are simple to fix!
Cracks
Composite doors are renowned for their durability, however like all doors, they can develop cracks and splits with time. These may be caused by wear and tear, a knock or impact that's gone unnoticed or a change in temperature or humidity.
If the fracture or split is not too big, you can often repair it using an adhesive from your local hardware store. Follow the instructions on the packaging and apply the filler to the crack, using a putty knife to spread it evenly across the surface. The compound will set, and then become barely visible upon closer inspection. If the crack is extensive an assessment by a professional may be needed.
A change in temperature or humidity can cause cracks and splits, particularly if the door is exposed to direct sun for a long time. You can avoid this by ensuring that your home is properly ventilated and decreasing humidity. You can also paint your composite door using a particular exterior door paint to guard against weather-related damage and to limit exposure to sunlight.
Another issue that is common to composite doors is that they tend to be noisy or stick when they are opened or closed. This is often caused by swelling from high humidity, misaligned hinges, or an uneven frame. A sticking door can be a frustrating and embarrassing issue, particularly in the vicinity of your front door lock.
Lubricating hinges with oil can decrease friction, which reduces the need to use manual force. Alternatively, loosening the hinge screws and then adding longer ones can help to lift the door back into place and then close it smoothly. You can also sand down the surface of your composite doors to reduce any sticking or scraping. However it is crucial not to damage the GRP finish.
If your door is making a loud sound, it could be because the locking mechanism is damaged, dirty or malfunctioning and making it difficult to open and close it, or turn the key. You can try an lubricant made of silicone for the cylinder or grease lubricant for the mechanism to help to make this process easier. If this does not solve the issue, it may be necessary to replace the lock components.
Loose Seals
Although composite doors tend to last longer than uPVC and timber doors, they are still susceptible to damage. Like any other exterior door they can fade over time from sunlight exposure and other weather conditions. This can be unattractive and make your home appear less appealing. There are a variety of ways you can bring back your composite door to its original beauty.
A common issue that affects composite doors is leaks, which usually occur because of damaged weather seals. The water could be able to enter your home, posing the risk of security. It is important to fix this problem promptly to avoid further damage.
If your composite door is leaking, it's time to replace the weather seals or gaskets as soon as you can. This is easy to do and will typically only take only a few minutes. First, you must remove the old seal by taking the screws off and prying it out. Once the old seal has been removed, you can install a new seal over the gap, ensuring it's properly slotted into place. You can also use graphite or silicone-based oil to help the gaskets and seals on your doors remain in position.
Another potential issue with composite doors is swelling or an incorrect alignment of the hinges, usually caused by fluctuations in temperature or the building's settling. This can result in gaps around the frame of the door and make it difficult to close or open the door.
It is also important to inspect the drainage holes on your composite doors on a regular basis to ensure that they aren't blocked. This is especially important during winter, when the door threshold could be susceptible to flooding if it's not cleaned properly. Cleaning the drainage holes regularly will keep them clean and will stop water from building up in areas where it can cause structural damage.
Composite doors are perfect for any home but they may have issues with wear and tears. If you follow these simple repair tips, you can keep your composite doors in good condition for many years to come.
Dropped Hinges
Composite doors are extremely durable and require minimal maintenance, but hinges can break when they are subjected to continuous use. Fortunately it's a simple problem that can be solved by adjusting the door a few times. The first step is to assess the door hinges to identify the source of the issue. This will help you determine which adjustments to make and which tools to use. It is also important to clean the hinge area, to remove any dust or dirt that could be causing a problem.
With a screwdriver and a hex wrench, loosen the plastic caps that protect the top and bottom of each hinge (if applicable). The screws that hold the hinges in place will be exposed making it easier to adjust them. You can apply pressure to the hinges after tightening the screws to make sure that they are in line with the frame.
You should also inspect your latches and hinges on a regular basis for signs of wear or misalignment. This will not only ensure that you keep your door in great shape but also prevent any security issues from developing. You'll also want to ensure that the hinge at the bottom is carrying the majority of the load, since this will lessen the risk of it becoming sagging with time.
If you are having difficulty locking your composite door, it could be because of a misalignment with the hinges or an issue with the multi-point lock. If left unadjusted, this could lead to the lock becoming spongy or difficult to operate.
braintree composite door hinge replacements can assist you align your door and replace the locks to provide a cost-effective solution. We can also fit new handles and letterboxes to give your composite doors a fresh feel and look.
Blocked Drainage Holes
Composite doors are a popular option for homeowners due to their strength, style and low maintenance feel. Like all exterior doors, they are susceptible to wear and tear caused by weather conditions. Although composite doors can't be polished or painted like wood doors, you can still take some steps to correct common issues and make your door look as good as new.
One of the most common issues with composite doors is that they could begin to let water in. This is usually due to gaskets or weather seals that have worn out that leave gaps which allow rainwater to seep into your home. To fix this issue, simply flush the drainage holes in the thresholds of the door with water to ensure they're functioning properly and free from blockages.
The locking mechanism of composite doors can be stuck. This is often due to dirt or grease getting into the door handle or lock. Clean the cylinder using a safe cleaning product for composite doors. Then, use grease-lubricant to get it back in working order.
Drainage holes that are blocked are a common problem with composite doors, and these can be easily solved by flushing them with water to make sure they're operating correctly. You can avoid water getting into your home by cleaning the drainage holes every 6 months.
Staining can be an integral aspect of everyday life and can be difficult to remove. For most doors that are exterior, this can be treated by wiping the affected area with a damp cloth and then using a mild detergent to wash away any dirt. Alternately, you could consider using an agent that is chemical-based to get rid of any stubborn staining on your composite doors.
Although composite doors are constructed from a variety of different materials, they are still prone to weathering and fading over time because of exposure to sun and other harsh elements. This can result in your composite doors appearing worn and damaged, however there are a few easy steps that you can take to revive their appearance and keep them in good condition for many years to come.