Facts about Bowing of Doors
Timber and MDF doors generally warp or bow over time, resulting in gaps between the door and the frame, which can compromise energy efficiency, security and functionality.
Door Care and Maintenance
Proper door care is essential for their longevity, functionality, and safety. Regular maintenance will make your Spence Doors last longer and look better. Required maintenance varies between door types and installation settings.
General door maintenance:
- Check doors monthly for signs of wear, damage or misalignment.
- Apply silicone-based lubricant to hinges, locks and other moving parts every six months.
- Periodically tighten loose screws on hinges, door handles and locks.
- Wipe down doors with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Replace worn weather stripping to maintain energy efficiency and prevent drafts.
- Address any chips or scratches in the door's finish to prevent further damage.
- Install and maintain door stops to prevent wall damage from door handles.
- Educate building occupants on gentle door operation to prevent slamming.
- Schedule annual maintenance checks by door specialists, especially for high-traffic areas.
- Doors need replacing typically every 15-30 years, depending on usage and type.
Timber doors maintenance:
- Wooden doors require care to prevent warping and decay:
- Moisture control: Use dehumidifiers in damp areas to prevent swelling or shrinking.
- Finish maintenance: Reapply varnish or paint every few years to protect the wood.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Use curtains or blinds to prevent UV damage and fading.
- Insect prevention: Inspect for signs of wood-boring insects and treat promptly if detected.
Fire doors maintenance:
- Fire doors require special attention due to their critical safety role:
- Certification: Ensure fire doors meet current building codes and have proper certification labels.
- Gap checks: Maintain proper gaps around the door (usually 3-4mm) for effective fire containment.
- Intumescent seals: Inspect and replace damaged seals that expand during fires to block smoke and flames.
- Self-closing mechanism: Test and adjust to ensure doors close fully and latch properly.
- Fire-resistant glazing: Check for cracks or damage in glass panels.
Professional inspection: Schedule annual inspections by certified technicians.
Smoke door maintenance:
- Smoke doors require the following:
- Smoke seals: Regularly check and replace damaged smoke seals around the door's edges.
- Automatic closing systems: Test smoke detection systems that trigger door closure.
- Signage: Ensure clear ‘keep closed’ signs on both sides of the door.
More Resources
Door Painting
Getting the most out of your Spence Doors means ensuring that sealing and painting are done correctly in a timely manner.
Important Australian Standards
What to know in reference to the National Construction Code (NCC) which is Australia’s primary set of technical design and construction provisions for buildings.
Hardware Explained
Appropriate door hardware ensures security, fire safety and functionality and should be selected with accessibility in mind.
Different Wall Systems
Different wall systems play a crucial role in selecting and installing doors, particularly in commercial and industrial settings. Regardless of your wall, Spence Doors has a solution for you.
Materials Explained
The material composition of a door defines both its functional properties and visual finish. Each materials offers its own advantages, understand which is best suited to your project.
