French doors are an effective way of allowing natural light to flow into your home, and they do an excellent job of bringing the outside in. But, as is the case with all windows and doors, there are some telltale signs that a repair or replacement might be necessary.
Signs That Your French Doors Need Repairing or Replacing
- Visible Damage – One of the most obvious signs that your French doors need repairing or replacing is visible damage, such as cracks or chips. Pay close attention to the surface of the doors for any signs of deterioration, including peeling paint or rotting wood, and look for signs of double glazing failure. Minor damage may be repairable with simple fixes, but extensive damage will likely need replacing.
- Hard to Open and Close – If your French doors are becoming increasingly difficult to open or close, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Look out for the doors sticking or dragging, or scraping sounds when you’re moving them. Sometimes, adjusting the hinges or fixing a small part of the door may solve the problem, but persistent problems may require a replacement.
- Rising Energy Bills – If your French doors are not properly sealed or if they have deteriorated over time, cold air can seep in during the winter, as well as hot air during the summer. This forces your heating to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This increased energy consumption leads to higher energy bills.
- Draught Around the Doors – Draughts around the edges of your French doors can compromise energy efficiency and comfort, which is why it’s important to check for gaps between the door frame and the surrounding walls. New sealant can be an effective temporary solution, but if the draught persists, it could be time to replace the doors.
- Water Damage – Water damage is a serious issue that can compromise the structural integrity of your doors. Water stains and mould are both signs of water damage, especially around the bottom and along the door frame. Replacing the weather seal is sometimes enough to solve the problem but, in cases of severe water damage, replacing the doors may be the best option.
- Condensation – Condensation is one of the key signs of double glazing failure, and it’s a sign that your French doors are not performing as they should be. Condensation occurs when water vapour in the air turns into liquid on surfaces, and it happens when the temperature drops. When condensation appears between the layers of glass in French doors, it indicates a leak in the seal, compromising the insulation between the panes. You’ll need to replace the doors to prevent further damage and to maintain energy efficiency.
Are You Seeing Signs of Double Glazing Failure?
If you are seeing signs of double glazing failure in your French doors, or you are noticing another telltale sign that there’s a problem, it could be time to seek the help of professionals. As specialists in fitting bespoke French doors, our team are on hand to provide trusted services to give you peace of mind in ensuring that yours are always in tip top condition. Insurance Approved French Door furniture and multipoint locking mechanisms are also installed as part of us replacing the old, inefficient French Doors as standard. Contact us today to find out more.