Even though you may go in and out of your front door several times each day, you may not often think of it in terms of maintenance. Since your front door is critical both to the appearance and safety of your home, it is important to keep it in good condition. Here are a few ways of doing so.
Annual Inspection
Looking over your door thoroughly once a year is a good way to make sure it is working properly and to catch any problems. Depending on how much exposure your door gets to sun, rain and other elements, it will need to be repainted or re-stained roughly every two to five years. Doors should also be cleaned, but it is important to use soap and water instead of harsh cleaners.
Safety Inspection
Make sure the hardware works properly including the locks. Screws may need to be tightened to better secure the door.
Swelling and Wooden Doors
Often, a wooden door that sticks in summer does not in winter. If you are having seasonal problems with a door that sticks, it is important you do not sand it down so much that it leaves gaps at times when there is no sticking. Otherwise, you could be inviting cold winter air into your house.
Routine Tasks
The hinges should be lubricated as needed, and the weather-stripping and sealants should be checked regularly. Homeowners should avoid driving or drilling nails into the door to hang holiday decorations.
Doors are an element of the home you rarely think about until they start to look shabby or have problems. With the above tips, you can keep your front door looking great and in good working order.
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