French doors are a popular option for homes built in the past, but they are susceptible to problems as time passes. These issues can range from minor to major and could cause damage if not repaired in a timely manner.
The solution to the majority of these issues can be easy when you know what to look for. Here are some tips for fixing French Doors:
Locks that are not aligned
It can be difficult to open or close a door if the lock is misaligned. It can also leave the door and your property vulnerable. The misalignment of a door lock can be caused by hinges that require to be adjusted, structural settling or an incorrect installation. Fortunately, there are several simple fixes you can try on your own to resolve this problem.
The first step is to figure out what's causing the latch to not engage with the strike plate hole or door frame. You can do this by closing the door and then looking for an inscription on the strike plate. This will help you identify the issue so that it can be fixed.
If the latch contact is above or below the strike plate hole, it's an indication of hinges that are loose or the frame of the door that requires shims. The loose hinges can cause the door to sag and cause the door not aligning properly. You can fix this by tightening the hinge screws and adjusting the hinges. The use of shims to support hinges will help keep them in place and stop the hinges from sagging.
A seized or stuck lock-cylinder is another frequent cause of a door that is not aligned properly. This could be due to dirt or debris that has blocked the keyway or it could be caused by an old key. In either case the best option is to lubricate your lock cylinder using graphite powder or a lubricant made of silicone. If the lock cylinder is stuck, it's a good idea to consult an expert to avoid further injury or damage.
A seized latch can cause issues for French doors, since it stops the door from being opened and closed. The effects of climate change can cause the door to swell or be incorrectly aligned. This can also be a sign of poor hardware. In the majority of cases, a seized latch can be fixed by repositioning it and then lubricating with silicone spray. However, if the latch is damaged, it may need to be replaced entirely. A skilled handyman will be able to identify the problem and perform the repair.
Leaks
If your French doors have been set up in a way that meets modern standards, they shouldn't leak. If they do leak, you must determine the cause of the problem so that you can address it.
If water is entering through the bottom of your door it could be caused by several problems. The most common is that the seal around the bottom of the door isn't sealed enough, allowing moisture to seep in and cause damage over time. A hole or crack could be present in the frame or sill of the door. You'll have to repair or replace the sill.
If there's no barrier between your French doors and the wind, you could also experience leaks. Strong gusts of wind can easily weaken the seam, causing leaks that can damage flooring and interior walls. You can prevent this by installing a screen an awning or even an enclosure to create an windbreak.
Another possible cause of leaks is that the seals around your French doors aren't maintained or installed correctly. In this scenario you'll have to reseal them with silicone caulking. This material provides superior adhesion as well as flexibility and water resistance, making it the ideal option for sealing your French doors.
It's also important to make sure that the drainage wells along the bottom of your uPVC French doors aren't blocked or filled with debris. This will reduce heat transfer and air infiltration into your home, which will reduce the cost of energy.
In the end, it's recommended to check your French doors regularly and wipe them clean using a mild cleaning solution to ensure they look great and operating smoothly. Regular maintenance can extend their lifespan and enhance their performance. These steps can help you avoid costly repairs and allow you to enjoy your French doors for years to come!
Warping
French doors provide a great option to connect your indoor and outdoor spaces while letting in plenty of sunshine. Like all doors french doors, they can become damaged over time by wear and tear or improper installation. This is why it's important to have your french door repairs near me doors repaired immediately you spot problems.
If you're french door double pane glass replacement doors aren't locking, there's a good chance that the lock been damaged or stuck due to wear and wear and tear. You'll need remove the lock and remove the door for an inspection of the mechanism.
Another common problem with French doors is that the latch gets stuck or won't close properly. This usually happens because the doors are not aligned properly. The hinges may be loose or they weren't installed correctly. The easiest method to correct this is to open and close the doors as carefully as you can to see if the latch works or not.
It's possible that your doors aren't closing correctly because the wood has swelled from moisture. To fix this issue, you'll have to expand the door's frame to allow room for hinges. This is a difficult job which should not be attempted without professional assistance.
It is crucial to get your French doors fixed as soon as you notice any issues. This will ensure they look the best and function as they should. If you take care of them and provide regular maintenance, your french door frame replacement doors will last for many years.
Chameleon is a specialist in fixing and restoration of wooden windows, doors and other wooden elements on period or listed buildings. We can repair your existing French doors or install new ones to give your home a stunning and traditional look. Contact us today if bored of your old French doors. We'll give you a no-cost estimate for repairs and provide you with the high-quality service you deserve.
Wooden Parts
French doors are a stunning feature for any home. However, over time, they can become weathered and damaged. The good news is that while this could cause a couple of minor issues but it can also be repaired fairly easily.
If your exterior French door isn't locking, it is possible that something is blocking the frame or that there is a problem with the alignment of the latch and the door. In the first scenario it is recommended to remove any debris, dirt or household items that have gotten caught between the frame and door.
In this case, you may need to tighten the hinges or adjust them. You can do this by locating the lateral adjustment on a hinge (usually hidden behind plastic covers or small plugs) and then adjusting the hinge away from or toward the frame. It is also possible to lubricate the latch using silicone spray or oil, but this might not be effective over the long haul and could require replacement.
Sometimes, the wood of the French door frame may expand due to changes in humidity, which could make the door difficult to open and close. You can fix this by sanding the edges of the frame to adjust them. Apply sealant or paint later on.
Fog accumulation between glass panes is another common issue with French doors. This can lower the efficiency of the heating system and result in a loss of natural light. The glass panes could be replaced to remove fog, but it is not a job that should be performed without professional help.
A cracked or broken glass pane should be replaced as soon as possible to ensure safety and to keep out elements from the home. The process for replacing glass in french door glass on French doors is the same as the process for sliding glass doors, however, it requires a bit more skill and a certain amount of precision to do correctly. Wear gloves that protect you when removing the glass pane from the window. Take measurements of the opening to ensure that the new glass will fit properly. Cut and place the pane with attention. Reinstall any doors hardware and glazing components.