How to Restore a Composite Door
Composite doors are made with 17 layers of laminated wood and a solid core. They help to keep you warm and safe. These doors are vulnerable to damage from break-ins or forces.
Cracks, misalignment and gaps around the frame are common problems. Luckily, the majority of these issues are easy to repair!
Cracks
Composite doors are famous for their durability, however like all doors, they are susceptible to cracks and splits over time. These may be caused by wear and tear or an impact that's gone unnoticed or a change in temperature or humidity.
If the fracture or split is small it is possible to fix it using the help of a plastic filler available at the local hardware store. Follow the instructions on the label and apply the compound to the crack, using a knife to spread it evenly across the surface. The compound will set and becomes invisible when you look closer. If the crack is severe an assessment by a professional may be required.
Cracks and splits can also be caused by a change in temperature or humidity, especially when the door is exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors can prevent this by ensuring that your home is adequately ventilated and reducing humidity. You can also paint your composite door with a specific exterior door paint to shield against weather damage and limit exposure to sunlight.
A composite door might also rattle or squeak when it is closed or opened. This can be caused by the swelling caused by high humidity, a misaligned hinge or an uneven frame. A door that is stuck can be a snarling and frustrating issue, especially if it is located near your front door lock.
Lubricating hinges can reduce friction, reducing the need to use manual force. Alternately loosening the hinge screws and adding longer ones can help lift the door back to its original position and close smoothly. You could also try sanding the surface of your composite door to help lessen scraping or sticking, although it's important to be careful not to damage the GRP coating.
If your door is squeaking, it could be because the locking mechanism is dirty or damaged which makes it difficult to turn the key or open and close the door. Try using a silicone-based lubricant to the piston or grease lubricant for the mechanism to facilitate the process. If this does not solve the issue, it could be necessary to replace the lock components.
Loose Seals
While composite doors tend to last longer than uPVC and timber doors, they remain vulnerable to damage. Like any exterior door they may fade as time passes due to sun exposure and other weather conditions. This can look unattractive and make your home look less appealing. Fortunately, there are many ways to restore your composite door back to its original glory.
Leaks are a common problem with composite doors, and they typically occur due to worn weather seals. This could cause water to leak into your home, which poses an extremely dangerous security risk and something you'll need to deal with quickly to prevent further damage.
You must replace the gaskets and weather seals of your composite door as quickly as you can if it is leaking. This is a simple task that only takes just a few minutes. First, take off the old seal by loosening the screws and then prying it out. After removing the old seal, place a new seal over the gap. Make sure that it is properly slotted in place. Alternately, you can apply graphite or silicone-based oil to help the gaskets and seals on your doors remain in place.
Another potential issue with composite doors is swelling or misalignment of the hinges often caused by changes in temperature or the building's settling. This can cause gaps around the door's frame and make it difficult to shut or open the door.
Also, it's essential to examine the drainage holes on your composite doors on a regular basis to ensure that they're not blocked. This is especially true in winter when the threshold of the door may flood if it's not cleaned correctly. It is important to clean the drainage holes on a regular basis to keep them clear and stop water from accumulating in places where it could cause structural damage.
While composite doors are a fantastic option for any home, they can be susceptible to issues caused by wear and tear. If you follow these easy repair tips, you will be able to keep your doors in good condition for the long run.
Dropped Hinges
Composite doors are extremely durable and require minimal maintenance, but the hinges could break when they are subjected to continuous use. Fortunately, this is a simple problem that can be solved with some simple door adjustment. First, you'll need assess the door hinges to identify the source of the problem. This will help you determine the correct adjustments to make and what tools to employ. It is also important to clear the hinges to get rid of any dust or dirt that could be causing a problem.
With a screwdriver or hex key, remove the caps of plastic (if necessary) that cover the tops and bottoms of each hinge. This will expose the screws which hold them in place and make it easier to adjust the hinges. You can apply pressure to the hinges after tightening the screws to ensure that they are in line with the frame.
You should also inspect your hinges and latches periodically for signs of damage or misalignment. This will not only keep your door in good condition but also stop any security issues from forming. You should make sure that the hinge on the bottom is bearing the majority of the weight, as this will help reduce the risk of your door sagging.
If you're having trouble locking your composite door, it could be due to misalignment of the hinges or a problem with the multi point lock itself. If the lock is not adjusted, it can become sticky or difficult to use.
Our team of professionals can realign your door, and replace locks to offer an affordable solution. We can also supply and fit new handles and letterboxes to give your composite door a fresh look and feel.
Blocked Drainage Holes
Composite doors have become a popular choice for homeowners due to their strength, style and low maintenance. As with any exterior door the weather can result in wear and tear. But, although composite doors can't be painted or polished as timber doors however, there are some easy steps that can be done to repair common problems and keep your door looking good as new.
One of the most frequent issues with composite doors is that they may start to let water in. This is usually due to gaskets or weather seals worn out that leave gaps, which let rainwater infiltrate your home. To fix this problem, flush the drainage holes that are located in the thresholds with water to make sure they're functioning properly and free of obstructions.
The locking mechanism of composite doors can be stuck. This is typically due to grease or dirt that builds up in the door handle or lock cylinder. Clean the cylinder with a cleaning product safe for composite doors. Then, apply grease-lubricant to get it working again.
By flushing the drainage holes with water, you can easily fix this problem. By taking the time to clean these drainage holes every six months, you will prevent them from getting blocked or dirty and avoid water getting into your home.
Staining is an inevitable part of everyday life but it can be difficult to get off from certain surfaces. For most doors that are exterior, this can be treated by wiping the affected area with a damp cloth then using a mild detergent to scrub away any remaining dirt. You can also apply a chemical-based stain remover to break down any stubborn stain.
Although composite doors are made from a variety of materials however, they are still susceptible to fading and weathering over time because of exposure to sun and other elements that can be harsh. This can result in your composite doors appearing worn and damaged, but there are a few easy steps you can take to restore their appearance and keep them in good condition for many years to be.