At Home Counties Joinery, we take pride in crafting bespoke, high-quality, solid wooden doors that add a touch of elegance and warmth to your home or business. Meticulously crafted, we ensure each door meets your exact size, design, aesthetics and glazing specifications. However, like any other element of your property, wooden doors may encounter common issues over time. Here is part one of two, where we’ll guide you through troubleshooting and fixing these common problems, helping you maintain the beauty and functionality of your custom wooden doors.
Sagging Doors
One common issue with wooden doors is sagging, which can result from changes in humidity or improper installation. Here’s a quick guide on how to assess and fix sagging doors:
The assessment
- Identify the hinge issue: The most common cause of a sagging door is an issue with the hinges. Start by examining the hinges on both the door and the door frame. Look for loose screws, damaged hinges, or any visible signs of wear
The fix
- Tighten loose screws: If you notice any loose screws in the hinges, tighten them using a screwdriver. This simple step may resolve the issue if the sagging is due to screws that have gradually worked themselves loose over time
- Replace short screws: If the screws are short or have stripped the wood around them, replace them with longer screws. Longer screws provide a more secure grip and can help pull the door back into alignment
- Check the door frame: Issues with the door frame can also cause sagging. Ensure that the frame is square and hasn’t shifted over time. If the frame is out of square, you may need to make adjustments or consult with a professional, like Home Counties Joinery
Sticking Doors
Changes in temperature and humidity can cause wooden doors to expand or contract, leading to sticking issues. If your door is sticking, this step-by-step guide on assessing and fixing sticking doors is beneficial:
The assessment
- Identify the problem area: Close and open the door, paying attention to where it sticks. Identify the areas where the door is rubbing against the frame or where the resistance occurs
- Check for obstructions: Examine the edges of the door and the door frame for any obstructions, debris, or buildup that might be causing the sticking. Clean any dirt or debris from the edges and the surrounding area
The fix
- Sand the problem areas: Gently sand the areas where the door is sticking using medium-grit sandpaper. Focus on the edges rubbing against the frame—sand toward the wood grain to avoid further damaging the door
- Apply wax or soap: For a quick fix, rub a bar of paraffin wax or a piece of soap on the edges of the door where it’s sticking. The wax or soap acts as a lubricant, making it easier for the door to slide smoothly against the frame
- Adjust the hinges: Sticking doors can sometimes be caused by misaligned hinges. Check the alignment of the hinges and tighten any loose screws. If the hinges are still causing issues, you may need to reposition them slightly. Loosen the screws, adjust the hinge, and then tighten the screws again.
- Consider humidity control: If sticking doors is a recurrent problem, especially in humid or dry seasons, consider using a dehumidifier or a humidifier to regulate indoor humidity levels; this can help minimise the expansion and contraction of the wood
- Reapply finish: Consider reapplying if your door has a finish, such as paint or varnish. A fresh finish can help protect the wood and reduce the likelihood of sticking.
Following these steps can address sticking issues with your wooden door and restore functionality.
In conclusion, at Home Counties Joinery, we understand the importance of maintaining the beauty and functionality of your bespoke wooden doors. By addressing common issues like sagging and sticking, you can ensure that your doors continue to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. If you encounter more complex problems or require professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We are committed to providing top-notch craftsmanship and personalised solutions to keep your wooden doors pristine for years.
Coming soon, Part Two of how to fix common issues with wooden doors.