Common Issues and Solutions for Windows and Doors

Are you having issues with your windows or doors?

Newly installed windows and doors typically do not have problems, especially if they have been installed correctly and with care. However, over time, problems may naturally arise due to frequent use and the need for general maintenance. The issues you may be facing aren’t uncommon, and this article will provide you with simple solutions to restore your window or door to its original condition. Whatever window or door issues you are facing, Bluemanor are here to help.

Common Window Issues with Solutions 

Some of the most common problems with windows range from draughts and condensation to broken glass and leaks. Read on to learn more about how these issues can affect your home, as well as efficient and straightforward solutions to address them.

Draughts Coming From Your Window

Draughty windows can not only feel like a nuisance, but also have some repercussions for other elements of your home. The cool air entering your home through an opening in the window frame could have been a result of poor installation or damage to the window itself. Otherwise, it could also be due to failing weatherstripping, which seals the gaps around your window, or a broken window seal. Over time, a draughty window can have a significant impact on the heating and cooling costs of your home, and, of course, reduce the overall comfort of your living space. 

What is the solution to this?

Luckily, a draughty window can be easily fixed with little fuss through means such as sealing up gaps around the frame with weatherstripping or caulk. As an additional measure, draught stoppers can be included, and window treatments such as curtains or blinds.

Window Leak

Window leaks are one of the more serious window problems, as they can lead to water damage, mould growth, or rot in the surrounding wood. A leak from your window could be caused by a deteriorated sealant, structural changes (which can result from the shifting of your property's foundation), clogged drainage channels, or improper installation.

Leaky Window Solutions

Addressing these issues can come at a higher cost, so it is essential to resolve the problem as soon as possible. A simple solution to resolve this issue could be to replace the caulk, weatherstripping, and seal any gaps. However, if this does not resolve the problem, the most effective solution to fixing a leak is a complete window replacement.

Broken Window Glass

Broken or cracked window glass is naturally a safety concern if it occurs in your home. A variety of factors could have caused it, but primarily it is as a result of impact, stress or temperature changes. 

How to Fix a Broken Window

With broken window panes, safety should be the priority. Therefore, clearing up any shard of glass should be the first step. We recommended hiring a professional to help replace the glass in your window or the entire window. Measure the dimensions of your window and send this to your local home improvement store to cut it for you. The method of installation will depend on the type of window you have, so be sure to follow the relevant guide or video for your specific situation.

Common Door Issues with Solutions 

Like windows, doors also face a variety of problems. If your door was installed some time ago or you live in a historic property, some minor issues may start to arise. These include sticking doors, doors that don’t close properly, and doors that rattle or squeak. These will be described in detail below, along with some practical solutions. 

Doors That Keep Sticking

If your door won’t stop sticking, the first thing you should do is identify where your door is sticking. A common cause of this is when humidity causes the wood to swell; however, the buildup of paint or finish can also contribute to this issue. The area in which the door is sticking is often where the door appears to be too close or too far from the door frame.

So, What is the Solution?

Sanding the edges of the door or scraping off any excess paint would likely show an immediate difference in the effectiveness of your door functionality. However, if the cause is due to humidity, a dehumidifier could be the fix to your sticky door dilemma. You can read our expert guide on how to tackle this problem in more detail here.

Timber Doors: Unable to Close or Stay Open? 

A typical door problem for homeowners is if their door won’t close or open properly. This could be because of loose hinges, misaligned frames, or warping.

Sticky Door Solutions

To fix a door that won’t close properly, first check the hinges and tighten any loose screws accordingly, adjust the strike plate so the latch fits properly, or use shims between the hinges. If your door is warped (as indicated by a distortion from its usual shape), the leading cause is usually moisture or changes in humidity. To fix this, you will need to remove it, have the damage assessed, and then use methods like clamping the door to a straight surface. Or, if it is a minor warp, applying a weight or damp towels can help.

For a door that won't stay open, similar checks can be made as described above. You can check the door hinges for excessive free movement, inspect the misalignment of the door hinges, adjust the hinge pin, or level all the hinges.

Fixing a Squeaking or Rattling Door

A squeaking or rattling door can be a source of irritation for many homeowners. The issue often lies within the state of the door’s hinges, which will most likely be dry or loose if producing continuous rattling or squeaking sounds. 

The Solution

You can start by lubricating the hinges using graphite-based lubricants or with a lubricant of your choice. But if the squeaking persists, you should consider replacing the hinges entirely. For issues with rattling, you may need to bend the strike plate's tongue slightly. If rattling persists, consider adjusting the door stop or replacing the latch mechanism. 

How Bluemanor Can Help

Here at Bluemanor, we have been providing home improvements throughout Essex, Suffolk and Herts for over 20 years. As your local, family-run home improvement experts, we specialise in providing high-quality service throughout your home improvement journey and beyond, to give you confidence in your living space. 

Our job isn’t done after your installation is complete. With every customer receiving a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee, you can have peace of mind knowing that any unlikely issues with your windows, doors, and more are all under control.

If you're facing any issues with your window or door, we're just a call or message away. You can contact our friendly and expert team in various ways. If you are looking to report or discuss an ongoing issue with your product, you can use our contact service to input your contact details and provide a description of your problem, or call us on 01376 322266.