How does winter affect your external doors?

Personally, I am a fan of a crisp winter walk, but winter brings harsh conditions that can cause damage to our homes.

To learn more about how winter can affect your external doors, we must consider the damage inflicted by condensation, colder temperatures and mould.

Regular maintenance and knowing what to look for are the best ways to ensure your external doors stay in good shape. In this article, we will explore some possible effects of winter in more detail.

Four Ways That Winter Affects Your External Doors

1.      Cold Weather

Wooden doors are the most susceptible to damage from cold weather. Colder temperatures cause wood to contract before it expands as the temperature warms up.

When wood expands and contracts, it tends to warp, which can cause it to stick in your doorframe. Not only will this make the door sticky and hard to open and close, but the hinges may work loose as you put extra pressure on the door.

A warped door will also let in draughts and reduce your energy efficiency.

One way to avoid this problem is to opt for composite doors. Their robust structure means they suffer far less from warping than traditional wooden doors. Similarly, doors made from uPVC are also less likely to warp.

2.      Condensation

Condensation occurs when the temperature is different between the inside and the outside of the glass. If you see it on the inside of your windowpanes and glass in your external doors, it is a sign that they are energy efficient and keep the cold air out.

The problem with condensation is that if you do not wipe it away, the moisture will sit on the seals, leading to mould growth and damage.

Condensation occurs more in winter because we are less likely to open windows. Ventilation is essential for avoiding condensation.

Open windows and vents at least some of the time during the winter to allow air to circulate and avoid condensation. Where it is unavoidable, wipe it away promptly with a dry cloth.

If you notice condensation between your double glazing on external doors or windows, your unit seals have failed. You will need a repair or maybe a replacement to ensure your energy efficiency is maintained.

3.      Mould

Mould grows when moisture sits on a surface. Condensation not resolved or cleared away often results in mould growth around the seals of external doors and windows.

The best way to eliminate mould is to use a proprietary mould cleaner. This will ensure that the mould spores are destroyed. Simply wiping mould away can lead to a redistribution of spores that cause mould to regrow.

Mould left unchecked can cause permanent damage to the seals and units. It is a health hazard and can lead to breathing issues such as asthma.

Remember to inspect your doors and windows for any signs of mould and act immediately. Ventilate your home and wipe away condensation to avoid future problems.

4.      External Appearance

Cold temperatures, rain, snow and ice can affect the outside appearance of your external doors. Doors may show signs of discolouration and staining.

Wooden doors require regular maintenance to protect them from permanent damage. You must sand down the door and apply a stain coating every few years. If the door is painted, it may begin to flake and need sanding and repainting.

You may notice signs of cracking and splitting if a wooden door is not looked after.

The good news is that composite and uPVC doors are far easier to look after. You can wipe them clean with detergent and water and easily remove stains. They both have excellent weather resistance and will remain pristine after even the harshest winter weather.

If you want to learn more about our excellent range of composite and uPVC doors, please contact us at Colne Valley Windows.