How to Restore a Composite Door
Composite doors are made of 17 layers of laminated wood and a solid core. They can help keep you warm and secure. However, they can be damaged due to breaking-ins and the forces that are imposed on them.
Cracks, misalignment, and gaps between the frame are typical problems. Fortunately, most of these issues are simple to repair!
Cracks
Composite doors are renowned for their durability, however like all doors, they can develop cracks and splits over time. Cracks and splits may be caused by wear and tear or even an unnoticed impact or knock.
If the crack or split is small you can usually fix it using a plastic filler from the local hardware store. Follow the directions on your package and use a putty-blade to apply the compound evenly to the crack. The compound will set and become invisible when you look closer. If the crack is large, a professional assessment might be required.
Cracks and splits may occur due to changes in humidity or temperature especially when the door is exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time. You can stop this from happening by ensuring that your home is adequately ventilated and reducing humidity. You can also paint your composite door using a particular exterior door paint to protect against weather-related damage and to limit exposure to sunlight.
Another issue that is common to composite doors is that they may stick or squeak when being opened or closed. This could be due to the high humidity level, improperly aligned or uneven hinges or a swollen door. A door that is stuck could be a frustrating and embarrassing issue, especially when it is near your front door lock.
You can usually resolve a sticking door by applying lubrication to the hinges to decrease friction and the requirement for manual force. Alternately adding composite door panel replacement or loosening them could help lift the door and then close it with ease. You can also sand down the surface of your composite doors to reduce any sticking or scraping. However it is essential not to damage the finish of the GRP.
If your door is squeaking, it could be due to the locking mechanism is dirty, damaged or faulty, making it difficult to open and close it, or turn the key. To make the door operate better, you can apply the lubricant made of silicone on the cylinder. If this does not solve the problem, it may be necessary to replace the lock's components.
Loose Seals
Although composite doors tend to last longer than uPVC and timber doors, they are still vulnerable to damage. As with all exterior doors, they can become discoloured as time passes because of sun exposure and other weather conditions. This can be unsightly and make your home look less appealing. Thankfully, there are many ways to restore your composite door back to its original beauty.
A common issue that affects composite doors is leaks, which usually occur due to damaged weather seals. Water can seep into your home, posing a serious security risk. It is important to fix this issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
You should replace the gaskets and seals of your composite door as soon as you can if they are leaky. This is a simple process that takes only few minutes. First, you must remove the old seal by taking the screws off and prying it out. After the old seal is removed, you can place a new rubber seal over the gap, ensuring it's properly slotted into place. You can also apply graphite or a lubricant made of silicone if you want to keep your seals and gaskets in place.
Another issue that may arise with composite doors is swelling or misalignment of the hinges usually caused by fluctuations 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.
It's also important to regularly check your composite doors' drainage holes to ensure that they're not blocked. This is particularly true in winter, when the threshold of the door could flood if it's not maintained correctly. It is important to clean the drainage holes on a regular basis to keep them clean and stop water from accumulating in places where it could cause structural damage.
Composite doors are perfect for any home but they are susceptible to problems due to wear and tears. By following these simple repair tips, you can keep your composite doors in excellent condition for many years to come.
Dropped Hinges
Composite doors are extremely durable and require minimal maintenance, but the hinges may drop if they are exposed to constant use. This is a simple issue that can be resolved with a few simple adjustments to the door. To determine the problem you must first assess the hinges of the door. This will help you determine what adjustments to make and what tools to use. You'll also want to clean the hinge area to remove any dirt or dust that could be causing the issue.
With a screwdriver or hex key, remove the plastic caps (if necessary) that cover the tops and bottoms of each hinge. The screws that keep the hinges in place will be exposed, making it easier to adjust them. You can apply pressure to the hinges after tightening the screws, to ensure that they are flush with the frame.
It is also recommended to check your latches and hinges regularly for indications of damage or misalignment. This will ensure that your door is in good order and help to prevent any security problems from forming. It is important to make sure that the hinge on the bottom is bearing the majority of the weight, as this will decrease the risk of your door falling.
If you are having difficulty locking your composite door, it could be because of an alignment issue with the hinges or a problem with the multi-point lock. If not adjusted, the lock could become sticky or difficult to use.
Our experts can re-align your door and reinstall locks to provide an affordable solution. We can also supply and fit new handles and letterboxes that give your composite door a fresh appearance and feel.
Blocked Drainage Holes
Composite doors are a popular choice for homeowners due to their strength, style, and low-maintenance look. Like any exterior door, they are susceptible to wear and tear caused by weather conditions. However, while 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 as good as new.
One of the most common problems with composite doors is that they could start to let water in. This is often because of worn out gaskets and weather seals, which create gaps that allow rainwater into your home. To fix this problem clean the drainage holes in the thresholds with water to ensure they're functioning properly and free of obstructions.
Another issue common to composite doors is that the locking mechanism could begin to become stuck. This is often caused by grease or dirt build-up in the lock or door handle. Clean the cylinder with a safe cleaning product for composite doors. Then, use grease-lubricant in order to make it work again.
Drainage holes that are blocked are another frequent issue with doors made of composite, and they can be solved by flushing them with water to ensure they're working properly. By cleaning these drainage holes every six months, you can stop them from becoming blocked or dirty and also avoid water from entering your home.
Staining is an inevitable element of life, and 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 and then using a mild detergent to scrub away any dirt that remains. Alternately, you could try using a chemical-based stripping agent to help break down any stubborn staining on your composite doors.
Although composite doors are constructed from different materials, they can fade and weather over time due to exposure to harsh elements and sunlight. Your composite doors might appear damaged and worn-out as a result. However there are a few easy steps you can take to improve the appearance and maintain them in great condition for the next few years.