By Ashley 
As the weather begins to warm up, it’s time to think about your home’s door maintenance. Winter can be tough on doors, especially in regions where extreme temperatures and moisture can cause damage. Spring is the perfect season to give your doors a little extra attention, ensuring they function smoothly and look great as you welcome warmer weather. Here are some essential spring door maintenance tips to keep your doors in top condition throughout the season.
1. Clean Your Doors Thoroughly
Cleaning your doors is one of the easiest and best ways to keep them in good shape. During the winter, dust, dirt, and grime can gather on both the inside and outside of your doors. Scrub the areas with a soft cloth and some mild soap. This is the first step. Don’t forget to clean the door frames either. Clear and shiny glass on your door? Use a cleaner that doesn’t leave streaks to keep it that way.
For wooden doors, dust and dirt can settle into the grain, so using a wood cleaner or polish will help to protect the finish. This is particularly important if your door is exposed to sunlight, as wood can fade over time. For metal doors, a gentle cleaner can remove rust or corrosion that may have started to build up during the winter months.
2. Inspect for Damage
Winter weather can be harsh on doors. Snow, ice, and cold temperatures may lead to warping, cracking, or splitting, particularly in wooden doors. Do a full check of your doors for any signs of damage as part of your spring door cleaning.
- Wooden doors: Look for cracks, chips, or splits. These can worsen with time and exposure to moisture, leading to further damage. If you find any, fill them in with the right kind of wood filler and sand the area smooth before you finish the surface again.
- Metal doors: Look for rust or dents. If you see rust, sand it off and put a rust agent on the area to stop it from rusting again. Most dents can be fixed by tapping them out gently with a rubber mallet.
- Glass doors: Look for any cracks or chips in the glass. If your door has a glass panel, it’s important to replace any damaged glass to avoid security risks or further damage.
3. Lubricate Hinges and Locks
The cold, damp months of winter can cause hinges and locks to become stiff or squeaky. To ensure your doors operate smoothly, apply a lubricant to both the hinges and locks. Use a silicone-based lubricant or WD-40 for a long-lasting effect.
Lubricating hinges will not only stop the annoying squeaks but also prevent them from becoming stuck or difficult to operate. For locks, it’s important to lubricate both the keyhole and the locking mechanism to keep them in good working order. Be sure to wipe away any excess lubricant to avoid dirt accumulation.
4. Check Weatherstripping
The weatherstripping around your doors is an important barrier against drafts and moisture. Over the winter, weatherstripping can deteriorate, especially in older doors. If your weatherstripping looks worn out or torn, it’s time to replace it. New weatherstripping will help improve your home’s energy efficiency by keeping the warm air inside during the cooler months and blocking out the heat during summer.
To check your weatherstripping, run your hand along the edges of the door while it is closed. If you feel a draft or the weatherstripping is cracked or missing, it’s time to replace it.
5. Repaint or Reseal
Putting on a new coat of paint or sealant can make your doors look brand new again. Wooden doors, in particular, can benefit from a new coat of paint or a protective sealant that will help guard against moisture, UV damage, and wear and tear.
For metal doors, consider applying a rust-resistant primer and paint to prevent corrosion. Repainting your doors can also give them a fresh, vibrant look, enhancing your home’s curb appeal as the season transitions.
6. Test Door Functionality
Finally, ensure that your doors open and close with ease. Check for any sticking or difficulty in operation. This may be caused by the door expanding or contracting due to temperature fluctuations. If a door is difficult to open or close, it may need to be adjusted or realigned. In some cases, you might need to trim the door or replace its hardware to ensure proper functionality.
Conclusion
Spring door maintenance is a simple yet essential part of preparing your home for the warmer weather. By cleaning your doors, inspecting for damage, lubricating hinges and locks, checking weatherstripping, and refreshing the finish, you’ll ensure your doors are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. A little attention to detail now will help prevent costly repairs later and keep your doors looking great throughout the season. So, roll up your sleeves and give your doors the care they deserve—your home will thank you!