Repairing French Doors

French doors are popular for homes built in the past. However, they could become problematic over time. These problems can be anything from minor to serious and can cause damage if not dealt with promptly.

If you know what to check it's easy to fix a lot of these problems. Here are some helpful tips for fixing French doors:

Misaligned Locks

It can be difficult to open or close a door when the lock is not aligned. It could also leave the door and property vulnerable. Door lock misalignment could be caused by hinges that require adjusting, structural settling, or the wrong installation. There are a few simple fixes that you can do yourself.

First, identify the reason why the latch isn't engaging with the hole in the strike plate or door frame. You can do this by closing the door and looking for an inscription on the strike plate. This will help you determine the cause to be fixed.

If the latch contact is above the strike plate hole or is below it that could be a sign that the hinges are loose or the door frame requires shims. The door could sag due to loose hinges which can cause it to be out of alignment. You can fix this by tightening the hinge screws, and readjusting the hinges. Shims can be used to support hinges and hold them in place.

Another reason for misaligned doors is a jammed or stuck lock or cylinder. This could be due to dirt or debris that have clogged the keyway, or it could be caused by an old key. In any event the best solution is to lubricate the lock the cylinder with graphite powder, or a silicone-based lubricant. If the lock cylinder is still sticking, it's a good idea to consult an expert to avoid any further injury or damage.

A seized latch can cause problems for French doors because it is unable to open and close the door. Climate changes can cause the door to swell or to be misaligned. It could also be an indication of poor quality hardware. In the majority of cases, a latch that has become stuck can be fixed by changing the position of the latch and lubricating it with silicone spray. If the latch has worn out it might need to be replaced completely. A professional handyman can spot the problem and perform the repair.

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If your French doors are constructed in accordance with modern standards, then they shouldn't leak. However, if they do leak, it's important to determine where the issue is originating from so that you can fix it.

If water is getting in through the bottom of your door it could be due to a number of problems. The most common reason is that the seal around the bottom of the door isn't tight enough, causing moisture to seep in and cause damage over time. Another possibility is an opening or crack in the door frame or sill. If this is the scenario, you'll have to repair or replace the sill or door threshold.

Leaks around your French doors may also occur if there's no barrier between the wind and the doors. Strong winds can easily weaken the seam, leading to leaks that could damage flooring and interior walls. To prevent this it is possible to put up a barrier like a screen door, or awning, or even add a fence nearby to create an windbreak.

Another reason for leaks is that the seals around your French doors aren't being maintained or installed properly. In this scenario you'll need to replace the doors using silicone caulking. This material is ideal for sealing around French doors since it provides superior adhesion and flexibility, as well as being water-resistant.

Additionally, it's essential to ensure that the drainage holes at the bottom of your uPVC French doors aren't blocked or filled with debris. This will minimize heat transfer and air infiltration into your home, reducing the cost of energy.

It's an excellent idea, to maintain their appearance and function by regularly checking your French doors and clean them using a mild cleaning agent. Regular maintenance can also extend their lifespan and improve their performance. Taking these steps can help you avoid costly repairs and allow you to enjoy your French doors for many years to be!

Warping

French doors are a great option to connect your outdoor and indoor spaces while letting in plenty of sunshine. But, just like any other door they are susceptible to damage over time due to wear and tear or poor installation. This is why it's important to get your French doors repaired immediately you spot a problem.

If your French door locks aren't working, it's likely that the lock has been damaged or stuck due to wear. You'll have to take the lock off and remove the door to conduct a closer inspection of the mechanism.

Another issue that is common to French doors is that the latch gets stuck or doesn't close properly. This is usually due to the doors have been misaligned. Either the hinges are too loose or were not installed correctly. To fix this, you should try to open and shut the doors as many times as you can to verify if the latch is working.

Your doors may not shut properly due to the swelling of wood caused by moisture. You'll need to increase the width of the door frame to allow for hinges. This is a challenging task and not something you should attempt on your own without some expert assistance.

It is essential to get your French doors repaired as quickly as possible if you notice any problems. This will ensure that they look their best and function properly. If you take care of them and provide regular maintenance your French doors will last for years.


Chameleon is a specialist in the repair and restoring doors, windows and all other wooden features of listed or period homes. We can repair your existing French doors or install new ones to give your home a beautiful and classic 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 quality service you deserve.

Wooden Parts

French doors are a stunning addition to any home. However, with time, they may become damaged and weathered. The good news is that even though this could cause a few minor problems but it can also be repaired relatively easily.

If your exterior French door does not lock, it is possible that something is blocking the frame or there's an issue with the alignment of the latch and the door. In the first case, you should take away any dirt, debris, or household items that are caught between the frame and the door.

In the second scenario you might need to adjust or tighten the hinges. This can be done by locating the lateral adjuster on the hinge of a door (usually hidden behind the cover of plastic or a small plug) and using it to move the hinge away from or towards the frame of the door. You can also grease the latch with silicone spray or oil. However, this may not last long and you may have to replace it.

Sometimes, the wood of the French door frame may expand due to humidity changes, which makes 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.

Another issue that is common to external French doors is the accumulation of fog between the two panes glass. This can lower the energy efficiency and cause the loss of natural light. Glass panes can be replaced to eliminate fog, but it is not a task that should be performed without assistance from a professional.

If a glass pane is cracked or broken it must be replaced immediately for safety reasons and to stop elements from outside entering the home. The process for replacing glass on French doors is similar to the procedure for sliding doors, however it requires a bit more skill and precision in order to perform the job correctly. Wear protective gloves 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 care. Reinstall any door hardware and glazing components.