Avoid Costly Door Repairs with These Simple Maintenance Tips

 

How to Avoid Costly Door Repairs with Regular Maintenance Tips

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You know how we all go about our days, walking through doors without giving them a second thought? We open them, close them, slam them shut when we’re running late - doors are such an everyday part of life, they tend to blend into the background. 

But here’s the truth: doors, whether they’re in your cozy living room or your front entrance, are some of the hardest-working pieces of your home. And when they start to act up, it can quickly turn into a big headache. The good news? You can avoid those expensive repairs with a little regular maintenance. Let’s talk about how to keep your doors working smoothly without breaking the bank.

1. Lubricate the Hinges (No More Squeaks!)

Let’s start with the basics: if your door squeaks, it’s begging for a little attention. That annoying sound comes from friction between the hinges, and it’s usually a sign that they need some lubrication. A quick dab of vaseline or some silicone-based lubricant will do wonders. Simply rub on the hinge, open and close the door a few times to work it in, and just like that - silence! Your door will thank you, and you'll avoid the costly repairs that come with worn-out hinges. See this video for example 😃.

2. Check for Misalignment (And Fix It Early)

Is your door starting to stick, or maybe it’s not closing properly? If you catch this early, it’s an easy fix, but if you leave it too long, you could be looking at a bigger problem. Misaligned doors can cause gaps, drafts, and even let in moisture, leading to warping or other damage. If you notice your door isn’t closing properly, check the hinges to make sure they’re tightened and secure. Sometimes, all it takes is a quick adjustment. But if the door’s frame is out of whack, a professional can get it back on track, saving you from further damage.

3. Trim and Resize for a Perfect Fit

New flooring, new carpet, or just the natural shift of a house settling can all cause your doors to no longer fit perfectly in their frames. The result? Scraping, sticking, or a door that just won’t close. If your door is rubbing against the floor or getting caught in the frame, it might be time for a little resizing or trimming. You can tackle this project yourself if you have the right tools, but if you’re not comfortable, we’re always here to lend a hand with expert resizing and trimming services to make sure everything fits just right. You can check availability and schedule directly via the website and book online.

4. Replace Weather Stripping (Goodbye Drafts!)

We all know how chilly it can get during the winter months when cold air sneaks in around your doors. Not only does it make your home uncomfortable, but it can also cost you a lot in energy bills. If you notice a draft coming from your door, it’s time to replace the weather stripping. It’s a quick, inexpensive fix that will help keep your home cozy and energy-efficient. We’ve got all the tools and know-how to make sure your door seals tight, blocking out drafts and helping you save money on your heating costs. 

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5. Tighten Loose Hardware

Is your doorknob wobbly? Or maybe your door latch isn’t catching properly? These little things might seem small, but they can lead to bigger issues down the line if not addressed. Loose hardware can cause strain on the door’s mechanism and may lead to misalignment or even broken parts. Check your door handles, knobs, and locks every few months to make sure everything’s tight and functioning properly. If something’s loose, a simple tightening can save you from needing a whole new lock or handle down the road.

6. Inspect the Door Frame (The Unsung Hero)

The frame might not get all the glory, but it’s doing a lot of the heavy lifting when it comes to supporting your door. If your door frame becomes cracked or warped, it can throw off the alignment of the door and lead to major issues. Keep an eye on the door frame to spot any damage before it worsens. If you notice cracks, swelling, or warping, it’s best to get it fixed sooner rather than later. A little repair now can save you from needing to replace the whole door frame (and door) later.

7. Fix Any Cracks or Chips Immediately

Whether it’s a small crack in your wooden door or a chip in the paint, it’s easy to overlook these minor issues. But if left untreated, they can lead to further damage, especially when it comes to wooden doors. If you spot a crack, grab some wood filler and patch it up before moisture gets in and causes the wood to swell or rot. A little maintenance now can prevent you from needing a whole new door in the future.

8. Keep an Eye on the Locks

A door’s locks are one of the most important aspects of its function—after all, they keep your home safe and secure. If your locks start to stick, jam, or lose their smooth action, it might be time for a little lubrication or a replacement. Regularly checking and maintaining your locks is one of the easiest ways to avoid needing a costly lock replacement or dealing with a door that won’t lock when you need it to.

Need help with your door maintenance? Drop us a message, and let’s get that door of yours back to perfection!

When it comes to doors, a little TLC goes a long way. By staying on top of these simple maintenance tasks, you can keep your doors looking and working their best for years to come. Not only will you avoid the headache of costly repairs, but you’ll also enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your doors are secure, functional, and energy-efficient.

And, if any of these tasks sound like too much to handle, don’t worry! At BlueWood Handyman, we’ve got the experience and tools to handle your door repair, installation, and maintenance needs. Whether it’s fixing a squeaky hinge, replacing a lock, or installing a brand-new door, we’re here to make sure your doors stay in perfect shape. 

 Contact us now, and let’s keep your home secure, efficient, and hassle-free!

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We share expert tips for achieving a perfect door fit, ensuring smooth operation and a polished look. Whether it’s due to new flooring, carpet installation, or just general wear and tear, we’ve got you covered. Watch now for all the expert advice you need to make your doors work like new!