How to Fix Common French Door Repair Problems
French doors can bring a touch of class to your home. They're also a great choice for period homes.
They're also easy to maintain. It is recommended to clean them frequently with an mild soap solution.
However, they are susceptible to being damaged over time like any other door. There are a variety of ways to fix these doors.
Broken or cracked windows
A cracked or broken window does more than just look ugly, it compromises the security and insulation of your home. While it is impossible to stop a crack from spreading indefinitely however, you can slow the process down by making quick and simple solutions.
First, make sure to wear protective glasses and gloves when working with glass, as it is easy to break glass shards in the event of negligence. Next clean the area around the crack with an abrasive cloth to get rid of any dirt or debris. This will ensure that the glue you use to fix the crack adheres correctly and does not leak or cause further damage.
Next, decide whether you'd prefer to go with the temporary route and use plastic film or tape or if you want to test a more permanent solution that lasts longer. If you opt for the latter option, make sure to buy a glass glue that is designed for glass and windows such as Loctite's Super Glue Glass. It has a sturdy hold and can be used on the outside or inside of your windows and glass which makes it ideal for quick fixes.
A clear nail polish may also be used to temporarily fill in cracks. This is especially useful for stress cracks that form when temperatures change dramatically from hot to cold. But, remember that nail polish isn't made to withstand moisture, which means it will not last for a long period of time. You can also cover windows with a plastic film which will protect them from insects, rain and wind.
Sagging Hinges
A door that is sagging can be an eye sore and affect the stability of your home. Luckily, the problem is usually fixable. If your door starts to slide, it's imperative to address the issue immediately. If not, small problems could escalate into bigger ones like squeaks, or other major misalignments.
Start by examining the hinges to determine the root of the issue. Most often, loose screws are the culprit. If tightening screws do not fix the issue of sagging replacing them with screws that are longer could help. Longer screws can help support the door's weight and prevent it from sagging over time.
It is also possible to add shims in order to adjust the hinge's location. These thin strips of metal can be inserted between the hinge and jamb or frame, distributing the weight of the door evenly and preventing sagging in the future. Use a doorstop or let someone else hold the door while you remove the screws from the affected hinge, and then carefully lift the door off the hinges.
It's important to remember that an uneven floor can cause the door to slide. Knowing this may prompt you to check the floor and address any issues, which could aid in resolving the issue without focusing on the door itself. In some cases, the sagging may be due to the condition of hinge components, like the knuckle or pin. If this is the scenario, you'll have to replace the hinges, which is a task which can be a challenge for homeowners without significant carpentry expertise. In some cases the hinges of your door are sagging. This could be a sign that the structure of the door is too heavy for its frame or jamb.
Misaligned Doors
If your doors are sagging or scraping against the frame or are difficult to latch, they could be misaligned. A misaligned door can be a hassle, but it also can contribute to energy inefficiency and squeaky, scratchy noises throughout your home. There are a variety of simple ways to address this problem without having to call in a professional.
If replace window with french doors is uneven, the hinges could require tightening. If the gap is not excessive it could be because the frame of your door has moved or settled over time. In this scenario, shims can be used to reset the frame.
A high level of humidity in the air is another common cause of misalignment. This can cause wood to expand and cause doors to stick. However, this isn't a long-term issue and usually disappears when humidity decreases.
After a heavy rainstorm there are many who discover that their doors aren't aligned properly. The solution is simple: tighten the hinge screws. This will usually solve the problem however if it doesn't you should consider using a longer screw for your hinges. This will give the hinges a greater amount of support and stop them from falling off again.
A misaligned strikeplate can be another potential problem. The strike plate is usually moved lower to allow room for the latch. This is a simple fix however, you'll need to remove the old strike plate and then drill holes for it. Then, you can use a wood dowel that's the same diameter as the screw hole to fill in the old holes, and then secure the strike plate in its new location.
Broken Latch
If the latch does not retract when you manually push it or operate the handle, it is likely that the mechanism is broken. You can determine the root of the issue by examining the location where the latch contacts are situated. A lipstick test can help determine if the issue caused by sagging hinges misaligned latch bolts, a small strike plate hole, or a combination of problems. To test, place a strip of lipstick (or another marking material) over the latch. Close and open the door. If the latch touches the lipstick below or above the strike plate hole it indicates that there is a lack of contact between the latch and the strike plate.
The best option is to lubricate the latch. Lubrication can be accomplished using a graphite pen, which works better than WD-40 or other dry fluids. You can also use a cotton swab to clean any dirt that has accumulated in the keyhole.
If lubricating your latch doesn't solve the problem, it may be necessary to relocate the strikeplate. If you've shimmied or made sanding, or increased the size of your strike plate's hinges or hole and hinges, you'll need to move the strike plate to the proper position relative to the lock. After you've moved your strike plate and adjusted the latch to a suitable position, check the latch to ensure that it's working properly. If the latch is not working then you can use wood filler to fill any old gap or screw holes that were created by moving the strikeplate or sanding hinges. Then, you can paint or stain the frame to finish the repair.
Leaks
Leaky French doors can cause serious issue. Water can get inside the French doors and cause mold or wood damage. This could result in costly repairs in the near future. The good news is, the majority of French door leaks can be fixed with a little work and a few tools.
Inadequate weatherproofing is among the main causes of leaks from French doors. This is due to the unique design of French doors, which consist of large areas of glass and a frame. It is essential to regularly check all components of your French doors for signs of wear and tear that could result in leaks. It is crucial to make sure that all seals haven't been damaged and are in good working order.
If you notice that your French doors leak when it rains, it's a good idea to do a thorough inspection to determine the source of the leak. Check for any obvious signs of water ingress, such as damaged seals around frames or window panes, or the rusty sealants for thresholds. Check that the threshold is properly sealed and insulated.
A French door can leak when it rains when there is a blockage within the lock mechanism. If this is the case, you will need to clean out the lock with an oil spray of silicone. This will lubricate and stop the lock from becoming stuck. If you are having trouble opening the lock, it could be because the key is damaged or worn out. It's time to get it replaced. Hardware stores typically offer keys to replace. If your key is too short or has become worn out, it might be the right time to replace it with a new lock.