How to Diagnose Exterior Door Problems

Determination

• One of the keys to diagnosing and fixing an exterior door problem it to determine the exact nature of the problem. Problems will generally fall into one of two categories: problems with the door latch and related latching mechanisms, such as a door handle or deadbolt, or problems with the door frame, hinges and door piece itself.

Adjustments

• Adjustments to the door may need to be made if the door has become difficult to close or open. Diagnosing the problem is generally a matter of just looking at the door to determine where it is off kilter. Sometimes hinges will dislodge from the door frame, causing the door to sit unevenly within the door frame and possible even fall off. Other times, the door may begin to stick because the house has shifted causing the door to sit unevenly within the frame. Other problems can occur as well. To determine whether or not an adjustment needs to be made, you can simply close the door and examine it in relation to the surrounding frame. It should sit neatly and evenly in the frame with an even gap all the way around. Any unevenness may indicate a need to make adjustments.

Mechanisms

• The mechanisms that keep the door closed such as the door handle, latch and deadbolt lock can often become stuck or broken. Fortunately, diagnosing these problems tend to be fairly simple because you can tell whether or not these parts are functioning correctly when you use them. The same is true for the door hinges, which often squeak or make grinding noises when they are malfunctioning. Replacement may be necessary, but first you should diagnose the problem by adding some simple household oil or lubricant, such as WD-40, to see if that will fix the problem. If not, you may need to replace the mechanism entirely.

Material

• The material from which the door is constructed may also prove to be problematic from time to time. Wooden doors can be broken, especially if made of a composite or pressed wood. Some wooden doors are hollow as well, to some extent, and may be susceptible to the elements or forces such as a kick. Metal doors may begin to rust and corrode. Fiberglass and steel doors tend to stand up to the tests of time and the elements better than other materials, so if you have to replace a door because it simply wears out, these might prove to be a better option. Diagnosing problems with the material is usually a matter of visual inspection, although the matter can be complicated somewhat with doors that are stuck. Wood can swell. This can be difficult to perceive with the naked eye, but you should be able to tell when you close the door and examine how the door sits within the frame.