HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR DOOR

Storing your doors, the dos and don'ts

Do
• Store it on a level surface in a dry,  well ventilated area
• Shelter it from the elements (wind, rain, sun etc.)
• Support it along its full length to avoid warping
• Stack them on bearers to spread the load

Don't
• Balance the full weight of the door on one edge or end
• Place it on a cold, moist surface
• Keep the door near sharp or rough surfaces

How to treat your doors

Step 1
Treat your doors before hanging them. A door has six sides. The top and bottom are the most important, because moisture movement is highest here. Treat with a suitable preservative, such as an undercoat, PVA, enamel, oil-based sealant or varnish. If you are unsure, visit one of our stores or give us a call.

Step 2
When painting and varnishing, ensure the panels are able to move freely – they should not adhere to the framework of the door. For glazed doors, the rebates and glazing beads (the strip surrounding the glass pane) must be painted prior to fitting the glass. Putty should used between the glass pane and rebate wall, as well as the glazing beads.

Door panels
Moisture levels change throughout the year. As a result, door panels must be free to expand and contract within the doorframe. When painting or varnishing, make sure the panels do not adhere to the framework.

Fits like a glove
Doors can be fitted during or after building. Your builder will be able to advise you what is best. Ensure extreme care is taken should your doors be fitted while building. All surfaces from foundations to concrete floors to plastered walls must be dry when fitting the doors. Make allowances for swelling and shrinking due to weather. Select a good sealant, which will minimise swelling and shrinkage.

Carpenter’s note
Are your doors swelling? If so, don’t fret! A good carpenter can help. Remember: keep a trim of between 5 - 10mm on all sides. Make allowances for lock installation.

Good housekeeping
Doors require regular maintenance. They need protection from the elements. Here are some tips to prolong the life and beauty of your doors:

• Use silicon or putty to seal spaces between beading and glass panes, or any openings between walls/floors and joinery to prevent water from entering and gathering
• Follow the sealant manufacturer’s recommendations, and treat your doors at regular intervals
• Paint or seal all six sides of the doors for optimum protection

Manufacturers’ guarantees
Manufacturers limit their guarantees to the value of the door/s. Some manufacture to SABS standards, whilst others do not. Be careful, guarantees may not apply if doors are damaged before, during or after installation.