Changes in temperature and seasonal moisture can significantly affect exterior doors as they are continually exposed to internal and external elements. That is especially important to remember, as that is when many common door issues arise in the winter. Consider hiring a commercial or residential door locksmith when this happens.
Externally, an entry door is exposed to all four seasons of the weather, but it is subjected to varying air pressures on the inside. Whether heated from the sun or cold from an air conditioner, your entry door’s functionality can be compromised by prolonged exposure to different weather conditions and temperatures. Before hiring a door repair service to check your doors, check the problem first so they know what to fix. Here are some issues that may arise during seasonal changes.
Door Issues on Frames
Timber door frames can expand and contract due to changes in the weather. When the weather gets hot, your locks may start to stick. They might require lubrication to turn during the summer, for example. That is because as the temperature rises, door frames might expand a few millimeters.
During the colder months, on the other hand, you are more likely to have trouble locking and unlocking your door. As when the temperature drops, the door frames contract. As a result, you may notice a poor fit between the frame and the door itself in the winter.
Paint
Winter weather can put a damper on your entry door, and it may even ruin its look. Your door may fade and lose its color as a result of moisture from the winter weather. In addition, the original color of your front doors’ paintwork may change due to other weather conditions. Aside from winter weather, the paint can fade if exposed to the sun and rain for an extended time. Paintwork loses its sheen and takes on a chalky appearance because of this.
Temperature extremes can also cause the surface to expand and compress. That causes cracks and chips in the paintwork over time. Not to mention the possibility of the door bowing, twisting, or warping.
Light-reflective paint colors with a light reflective value (LRV) finish greater than 50 are recommended for entrance doors to lessen the risk of harm. For example, white often has an LRV of 95, but black has an LRV of 5. Use the appropriate exterior paints for the wooden surface if you want your doors’ paintwork to last. For more information, always consult the paint manufacturer’s specifications.
Loose Screws
During the winter, your door’s screws may come loose. Like door binding, changes in humidity and temperature can cause this problem. While this may not appear to be a major concern initially, it can result in various issues. For example, your door may sag and not fit squarely within the frame if the screws are loose. The door may also rub or stick against the frame due to this.
Door Issues Involving Icy Locks
Cold weather can often compromise your home’s security, especially when it comes to your door locks. Due to dampness, locks can be hard to operate in cold weather. Locks can even become stuck in place.
Door & Lock Services Near Me
To unfreeze a lock in your door, use a lighter or a candle to warm the key. This may be a challenge if you are wearing thick gloves. You may also try using a lock de-icer, which comes in spray cans or small tubes. If the lock is still difficult to operate, it may be time to call a locksmith Arlington VA.
Now that you know what problems to expect, where can you hire a door repair Washington DC to handle the issue? We at MacArthur Locks & Doors offers services to those needing of a door repair Fairfax VA, with customer satisfaction guaranteed. So whenever you need a commercial or residential locksmith, our professional services are just a call away.
