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During winter, the cold and increased precipitation pose several problems for your home, including your entry doors. There are several issues you might encounter, whether you have sliding doors or storm doors, but knowing what is causing them can help you better prevent or handle them when they occur. Below are four of the most common issues you may notice with your doors this winter. 

What Problems Do Entry Doors Have In the Cold?

1. Latch Problems

entry doorsDoors that don’t latch properly are a common issue in winter, as the surrounding wood shrinks and expands with the temperatures. This can cause the strike plate on the frame to shift out of alignment, preventing the door from latching whenever you close it. While you can’t prevent the cold, you can take steps to improve the energy efficiency of your home, so the outside conditions have a less effect on the strike plate. Replace the plate if it shifts too far out of alignment during winter.

2. Drafts & Incoming Precipitation

Winter’s increased precipitation and chilly temperatures can find their way into your home through doors that don’t properly seal when closed. Your weather-strips may have worn down or the movement of the wood has led to the door fitting differently in the frame, allowing a draft to seep into your home. To fix this, install new weather-strips under your doors, especially storm doors, and invest in removable padding to place on the frame for a tighter fit when the door is closed.

3. Loose Screws

The increased humidity’s effects on wood can cause screws to become loose as they shift in place. This includes screws in hinges, the knob, locks, and deadbolts, so loose screws can pose serious issues if left unattended. Tighten all of the screws and install new ones if any are stripped. If they come loose during winter, simply tighten the screws back into place. If they’re stripped or the hole is too loose, buy new screws and drill them into place.

4. Faded Appearance

Rain, snow, and ice are hard on the aesthetics of your door. Whether it’s painted or stained, its color and finish can begin to fade, causing an uneven and unappealing appearance. Before winter hits, invest in weatherproofing methods to limit the negative effects of exposure. If it’s already faded, consider repainting or staining it to restore its appearance, and weatherproof it afterward.

 

 

If you’re experienced problems with your entry doors, contact Tri-State Window Factory Corp in Suffolk County, NY. With a second location in Seaford, the have served residents in Queens, Staten Island, Long Island, and the surrounding areas for over 50 years. Whether you want sliding doors, storm doors, patio doors, or entry doors, they have the equipment, inventory, and skill to meet your needs. They also offer siding, gutter, and window services. View their door selections online, and call (631) 667-8600 to schedule a service. 

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