Foundation repair is a major investment that can help protect the structural integrity of your home. However, one of the most common issues homeowners face after foundation repair is difficulty with their doors. This is because as your foundation was settling and shifting, it likely caused the door frames to become misaligned.
But don’t worry, fixing your doors after foundation repair is a common and relatively easy process. In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about how to fix doors after foundation repair so that you can ensure that your home is safe, secure, and functioning properly.
Can You Fix the Doors After the Foundation Repair?
After a foundation repair, many homeowners wonder if their doors will still operate as smoothly as before. The short answer: it depends. It’s common for doors to get slightly misaligned during foundation repair. However, most reputable foundation repair companies will take measures to protect your doors during the repair process and will do their best to ensure that doors are reinstalled correctly.
If you notice any issues with your doors after foundation repair, immediately bring them to your repair company’s attention. They may be able to provide you with additional solutions to fix any issues that may have arisen. With the right care, you should be able to enjoy a beautifully repaired foundation and fully functioning doors.
Why Should You Fix Doors After Foundation Repair?
After investing in foundation repair for your home, it may be easy to overlook the state of your doors. However, it is important to ensure that you fix any doors that may have been affected by the foundation repair process. This is because your home’s foundation supports the entire structure, including the frames around your doors.
If the foundation repair has caused any shifts or settling, you may notice that your doors are no longer closing properly or have become difficult to open. Not only can this be frustrating, but it can also compromise your home’s security and energy efficiency. By fixing your doors after foundation repair, you can ensure that your home remains secure and functional for the long term.
How to Fix Doors After Foundation Repair: Everything You Need to Know
1. Identify the Problem Areas
Before fixing your doors, you must identify which doors are problematic. This might include doors that are difficult to open or close, doors that don’t latch properly, or doors with gaps around their frames. Walk through your home and inspect each door to identify any potential issues. Mark the problematic areas with tape or a pencil to easily reference them later.
2. Check the Door Alignment
The first step in fixing a problematic door is to check its alignment. If your foundation repair caused the door frame to become crooked or misaligned, you’ll need to straighten it out. Begin by looking at the gap between the door and the frame on both sides. The door is likely sagging if the gap is wider at the top than at the bottom. If the gap is wider at the bottom, the door is likely rubbing against the floor. Using a level, check to see if the door frame is level both horizontally and vertically. If it’s not, you’ll need to adjust it until it is.
3. Fix the Door Frame
You can fix the door frame once you’ve identified the problematic areas and checked the door alignment. This might involve shimming the frame to make it level or replacing the entire frame altogether. If the frame is severely damaged, you may need to call a professional to help you with the repairs. You may also need to replace the weatherstripping around the frame to ensure it is properly sealed.
4. Adjust the Door Hinges
After you’ve fixed the frame, check the door hinges to see if they need to be adjusted. If the door is sticking, rubbing, or won’t close properly, you may need to adjust the hinges. This involves loosening the screws that hold the hinges in place and moving the hinge up, down, left, or right until the door is properly aligned.
5. Install a Door Sweep
If your doors still aren’t functioning properly after you’ve fixed the frame and adjusted the hinges, you may need to install a door sweep. A door sweep is a rubber or plastic strip attached to the bottom of the door. It helps to seal the gap between the door and the floor, preventing drafts and improving energy efficiency. It can also help to reduce noise and improve the overall function of the door.
6. Replace the Door Latch
If your door still doesn’t latch properly after you’ve adjusted the hinges, you may need to replace the latch itself. This involves unscrewing the existing latch and installing a new one. Make sure to use screws that are long enough to ensure that the latch is secure before closing the door again.
7. Test the Door
Once you’ve made all necessary repairs, test the door to ensure it’s functioning properly. Open and close the door a few times to ensure it opens and closes smoothly. Ensure it latches securely when you close it, and check for any drafts or air leakage around the frame. If everything looks good, your door should be ready to use.
By following these steps, you can fix your doors after the foundation repair is successful. If the repairs don’t seem to work, consulting a professional for further assistance may be best. With proper care and maintenance, your doors will function properly for years!
5 Considerations Things When You Need to Fix Doors After Foundation Repair
1. The Type of Door You Have
There are many types of doors, and each type will require a different type of repair. For example, a wooden door will require a different repair than a steel door.
2. The Extent of The Damage
The extent of the damage will also dictate the type of repair needed. A small crack in the door may only require a simple fix, while a large crack may require a more extensive repair.
3. The Location of The Door
The location of the door is also important to consider when repairing it. A door that is located in a high-traffic area will likely need a more durable repair than a door that is located in a low-traffic area.
4. The Climate
The climate in which the door is located will also affect the repair. A door located in a hot climate will likely need a different repair than a door located in a cold climate.
5. Your Budget
Your budget is also an important consideration when repairing a door. A more expensive repair may be needed if you want the door to last for many years, while a less expensive repair may suffice if you only need the door to last for a few years.
5 Benefits of Fix Doors After Foundation Repair
1. Aesthetics
One of the primary benefits of fixing doors after foundation repair is that it can improve the aesthetics of your home. If your doors are not level with the ground, they can appear crooked and unsightly. Additionally, if your doors are not properly aligned, they may not close properly, which can let in drafts and make your home less energy-efficient.
2. Functionality
Another benefit of fixing doors after foundation repair is that it can improve the functionality of your home. If your doors are not level, they may not open or close properly, which can be a safety hazard. Additionally, if your doors are not properly aligned, they may let in drafts, making your home less energy-efficient.
3. Energy Efficiency
Improving your home’s energy efficiency is another benefit of fixing doors after foundation repair. If your doors are not properly sealed, they can let in drafts, increasing your heating and cooling costs. Additionally, if your doors are not level, they may not close properly, leading to increased energy costs.
4. Resale Value
Increasing the resale value of your home is another benefit of fixing doors after foundation repair. Potential buyers will likely be concerned about structural issues if you plan on selling your home. By repairing your doors after foundation repair, you can show potential buyers that you have addressed any problems and that your home is in good condition.
5. Peace of Mind
Finally, another benefit of fixing doors after foundation repair is that it can give you peace of mind. If you have been dealing with crooked or drafty doors, repairing them can help you to feel confident that your home is safe and structurally sound.
Conclusion
Fixing doors after foundation repair may seem daunting, but it’s a relatively easy process with a little patience and know-how. By identifying the problem areas, checking the door alignment, fixing the door frame, adjusting the door hinges, and installing a door sweep if necessary, you can ensure that your doors function properly and your home is safe and secure.
If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, don’t hesitate to call in a professional. A licensed contractor or foundation repair specialist can help you make necessary repairs and ensure your home is in tip-top shape. Thanks for reading our post about how to fix doors after foundation repair.
