Do you have windows and doors in your home? While they may look good from the outside, what’s going on behind the scenes is far more concerning. Without proper maintenance and regular inspections, door frames can become susceptible to rot – a major issue that requires attention if you want to keep your home safe and secure.
In this blog post, we'll discuss signs of structural damage in door frames caused by rotting wood so you can recognize when repairs are necessary. With the right information at hand, the problems associated with a damaged or aging door frame can be avoided before it's too late.
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Why Quickly Identifying Door Frame Rot is Important
Taking the time to check for signs of wood rot in your door frame is an important preventative measure that all homeowners should incorporate into their yearly home maintenance schedule. An entry door can last for years when properly cared for, but if a door frame has suffered from significant water or insect damage, it’s important to act fast or face the consequences. FAS Windows & Doors will explain the four tell-tale signs of a rotting door frame and provide general advice on how to address this common problem.
Sign #1 – Visible Mold or Mildew on Exterior Door Frame
A common sign of a door frame that is rotting can be seen in the form of visible mold or mildew. This damage, which is often caused by moisture penetrating the wood of your entry door, can start to rot the wood from the inside out, compromising the security and safety of your home. If you notice patches of dark growths on any part of your door frame – particularly near the bottom where it meets moisture-rich soil – this could be an indication that it may need more attention than just a simple cleaning.
Getting an expert opinion will ensure that you’re not going to replace a perfectly sound door frame expensively. Certain types of wood are more vulnerable to wood rot, so even if you don't see any visible signs on your door frame yet, it doesn’t hurt to inspect closely for any potential issues.
Sign #2 – Warped, Bowed, and Cracked Door Frame
Door frames that become warped, bowed, and cracked are indicative of door frame rot. Entry doors will begin to sag over time due to extreme weather conditions, leading to stress and tension on the door frame, which can cause the edges and corners of the entryway to change shape. It’s important to be mindful of how your entry door is fitting in its frame and if it feels tight or if there’s any movement along the seams. A homeowner should always pay close attention to the condition of their door frame in order to diagnose any potential issues before more costly repairs become necessary. Early detection is key in stopping problems caused by rot before they start!
Sign #3 – Peeling Paint from Door Frame
As you inspect your door frame, one of the signs of rot that might become apparent is peeling paint. This is usually an indication that the wood is beginning to decay and break down. When there is a significant amount of paint coming off the surface, it's likely that there could be other issues at hand beyond just needing a coat of paint. The separation of the paint layer from the door frame could signal more serious problems, such as dry rot or water damage. If you notice this issue with your door frame, be sure to investigate further to see if there are any other contributing factors to why your paint may be coming off.
Sign #4 – Soft Spots on Door Frame / Wood Rot
When it comes to identifying signs of a rotting door frame, look no further than the surface. The fourth and final sign that you may have a rotting door frame is soft spots on the wood. Soft spots or areas of the wood that can be dented with light pressure are potential problem areas. Over time, rotting wood can lead to more serious issues, such as warp or breakage in the door frame. This makes for a potentially undesirable situation, so it is best to check for this issue immediately if you press lightly on your door frame and feel any signs of softness. Taking care of these issues as soon as possible will help preserve your door structure for years to come.
Turn to FAS Windows & Doors for Guidance
In conclusion, rotting door frames can be serious health and safety hazards if not addressed right away. By identifying these 4 key signs, you can take necessary actions to prevent further damage to your property. If you're unsure about how to proceed after noticing any of these signs, don't hesitate to reach out to us here at FAS Windows & Doors.
Our knowledgeable technicians are here to help answer any questions you may have and assist you in finding the best solution for your repair needs. With the right care and attention, your door frame can last for many years without any issues so that you can enjoy the security and peace of mind it provides for years to come.
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