Your home’s exterior doors require some attention every now and then to ensure they look great, function properly, lasts a long time. Many homeowners however unintentionally neglect their exterior doors, forgoing any maintenance.
Did you know that most contractors recommend you inspect and maintain your entry doors frequently? This will help you identify and potentially prevent potential problems and safety issues.
Below we will cover what our specialists recommend about maintaining your exterior doors.
1. Clear Dirt & Debris
Cleaning your doors on a regular basis is the first step in a regular maintenance program. This will help prevent the build-up of dirt and dust leaving your doors looking beautiful, and functioning properly.
2. Oil Hinges Often
Squeaking doors are not only annoying, but they can be difficult to open and close. Cleaning and oiling hinges at the same time as cleaning any dirt is a good practice. Once you have applied oil to your hinges, rub it around with a cotton swab and wipe away excess oil with a dry cloth.
3. Inspect Weather Stripping
Inspect and wipe down the weather stripping around the door and the frame. If needed, replacing it as soon as you see the damage. This will help you deal with vulnerable areas of your door and will prevent air from flowing in and out of your home. If your weather stripping has a build-up of grime and dirt, you can clean it with ordinary dish soap and warm water.
4. Consider applying a fresh finish or layer of paint
This is an excellent tip, especially if you have a wooden entry door. You can add an extra layer of protection to your door with a coat of paint, finish, or stain. It is your ally in preventing wear and tear and can prolong your door’s lifespan while showcasing a fresh new look.
5. Replace Damaged Doors
Your exterior doors are an integral part of your home, your doors provide both security and comfort. If you notice damage on your exterior doors, this can affect your home’s comfort and the security provided by the door. Consider replacing damaged doors or doors that are hard to close or open sooner than later, as studies have shown that home intruders tend to take advantage of a home’s vulnerability such as a damaged door to access a home.
Like most moving parts of your home, your entry doors need regular attention, but the attention doesn’t need to be extensive. Minor maintenance that includes wiping down the door, clearing debris, oiling hinges, and inspecting weather stripping is really all that is needed to ensure your doors stand the test of time.