Spring Maintenance - sticky doors and windows

April showers bring... Sticky Doors?

So the cold is finally moving out. Spring is moving in. What is that old saying? "April showers bring May flowers." Those showers can also cause doors and windows to stick. The cold winter has more than likely caused damage to the wood. Then spring rains come along and the wood swells, causing doors and windows to stick because they are no longer the right size.This can be irritating and cause further damage.

What can you do for a sticky door or window?
*Many times, they are easy fixes. Start by marking where the door or window is sticking. Start with some sand paper and sand down the area a bit. Often, this is all you will need to do. If this doesn't help, you will need to take the door or window off. You will want to prop it securely on a flat surface. Use a hand plane (which can be bought at any hardware store) and remove any excess material. Start small- you don't want to remove too much. The door will shrink during the summer dry times and then the gap will be too wide. That won't help you much- and it will be much harder to fix! Some of you DIY lifers may want to go for that Power Plane- I would rethink that option. Usually a hand plane will be all the power you will need. (So stow your pride on this one!)
* You can often avoid the sticking in the first place by making sure you doors and windows are sealed with a good coat of paint- don't forget the top and the bottom. Just because you can't see it, doesn't mean it doesn't need protection!
   Keeping your home in good condition is a great way to keep your insurance costs down. Damage can lead to claims, which can lead to higher premiums, both with your current carrier and with other carriers when you decide to shop and possibly switch carriers. It makes no sense to pay higher premiums if you can avoid it!

If you have any questions or need a quote, please call 214-592-0859 or 1-877-987-8683
or  email us: Brockman Premier Insurance.
We would love to keep you insured!