Top Reasons Why Wooden Doors Swell

It’s fairly common for wooden doors to expand and contract due to temperature fluctuations. Unless wood is covered with a protective finish, it’s particularly vulnerable to such changes. Of course, these movements can create problems in the long run, so it’s best to take preventive steps to avoid them altogether.

Renewal by Andersen® of Portland, a trusted provider of replacement windows and doors, discusses some common causes of swelling in wooden doors and what you can do to treat or prevent the problem.

Choose an Ideal Location for Your Door

At the start of your home construction or remodeling project, make sure that your door is going to be installed in a spot that doesn’t receive excessive sun exposure. If the optimal location for your door is in an area that gets too much sun at particular times of the day, you might want to consider other door materials since wood won’t likely do well in such circumstances.

Prevent Moisture Problems

Much like in replacement windows, moisture is one of your biggest enemies when it comes to wooden doors. That said, you should keep your entryway free from any risk of excessive moisture or moisture buildup. Location is often the crucial factor here, but you can also opt to apply a protective finish to help reduce the possibility of water damage.

Install a High-Quality Door

Wood is certainly a tough material. However, it is important to note that not all wooden doors are made with the same quality. Ensure that you are purchasing from a reputable door manufacturer. Or better yet, if you want to avoid the maintenance requirements of a typical wooden door, choose a different door material. Fibrex® is one of the best alternatives to wood as it is resistant to mold, rot and corrosion. It also does not expand or contract as much as wood, so you don’t have to worry about excessive swelling.

Renewal by Andersen of Portland has a team of professionals who are fully committed to providing you with top-quality replacement windows and doors. With many years of experience, we can guarantee excellent workmanship and value for your money. Call us at (503) 912-2668 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate. We serve customers in Tigard, West Linn and Beaverton, OR.