Rotten wood is a common problem, especially for exterior doors. The good news is that a rotten door can often be repaired, but it depends on the extent of the damage. As a professional, I’ve seen everything from minor surface rot to major structural decay. A successful wood door repair requires a thorough assessment to determine if the door is salvageable. Our goal is to provide a long-lasting, secure solution without the high cost of door repair or a full replacement.
Assessing the Rot
The first step in any rot repair is to determine how deep the rot goes. We’ll use a small tool to probe the wood and see how soft it is. If the rot is only on the surface, affecting a small area of the door panel, a professional door repair is usually a great option. However, if the rot has spread deep into the door’s core or compromised the structural integrity of the entire door, a full replacement may be the only safe choice. This is especially true for an entry door where security is paramount.
The Repair Process for Minor Rot
For small areas of rot, the repair process is straightforward. First, we carefully remove all the rotted wood. It is crucial to get rid of every bit of soft, decaying material to prevent the rot from spreading. After the area is clean and dry, we treat the remaining wood with a wood hardener. This solidifies the surrounding fibers and creates a strong base for the filler. We then fill the cavity with a durable wood epoxy or filler. Once it cures, we sand the area smooth and paint or stain it to match the rest of the door. This method is effective for a simple door panel repair.
Repairing More Extensive Rot
If the rot is more extensive but the door is still salvageable, the repair is more involved. This often requires cutting out a larger section of the door and replacing it with a new piece of wood. We’ll carefully measure and cut a new piece of wood to fit the damaged area. We then secure it with strong waterproof adhesive and screws, making it a seamless part of the door. This type of wood door repair is a skilled job, but it can save a door that would otherwise be headed for the landfill. This is a great solution for a residential door repair where a full replacement isn’t necessary.
When to Replace a Rotten Door
There are times when repairing a rotten door is not a good idea. If the rot has compromised the structural integrity of the door to the point where it is no longer secure, a replacement is the only option. This is often the case with a rotten door frame or a door with extensive rot around the lock mechanism, which would necessitate a door lock repair as well. If the door is badly warped from moisture, it may no longer close properly, making it unsafe and difficult to repair. A professional can provide an honest assessment and recommend the best course of action.
The Benefits of Professional Door Repair in Chicago, IL.
Attempting to repair a rotten door yourself can be a difficult and messy job. Without the right tools and materials, you might not remove all the rot, and the problem will return. A professional has the expertise to accurately assess the damage, use the correct materials, and ensure the repair is long-lasting and secure. Our door repair services can restore your door’s functionality and appearance.
Reach Out To Us For Professional Door Repair in Chicago and Its Suburbs.
Don’t let a rotten door compromise your home’s security and aesthetics. Whether you need a simple door repair or a full replacement, we can help. Our team specializes in wood door repair and can handle everything from a small door panel repair to a major reconstruction. We’re also experts in front door repair, french door repair, and other types of residential door repair. We’ll fix my door and make it as good as new. For reliable and efficient service in Chicago and the surrounding areas, including Glencoe, IL contact Galron today.
