Warp-proofing doors against winter damp

Winter can cause all sorts of problems around the house - from leaking roofs to mould and damp issues.

While these can be irritating, they are relatively minor - if addressed sooner rather than later - and can often be dealt with by yourself with a bit of DIY action.

One of the most common complaints during winter is the problem of wooden doors warping due to the increase of moisture in the air.

Swelling of the wood from moisture retention is usually the main culprit for warping, and depending on the how damp the environment that the door was made in will contribute to the problem.

While the risk of warping usually goes away as the temperature gauge rises in the drier months, there a few things you can do to prevent it from occurring in the first place.

If your door has already swollen and twisted, you should consider replacing it and implementing some warp-proof techniques to the new one.

Letting the door sit in the installation area for at least 48 hours will allow the wood to naturally expand in the space without the hinges attached - this can reduce the door swelling from humidity and temperature changes.

Finishing the door with a quality wood sealer will protect the wood from moisture absorption - ensuring that all edges are sealed, even if they aren't visible. 

To assist in the door installation you may find the use of a trestle or ladder helpful with securing the top hinges - this equipment is available at your local Kennards Hire.