Recommended Door Installation, Care & Maintenance to Avoid Voiding Warranty
Proper care and maintenance of your impact doors is essential not only for longevity and performance but also for protecting your manufacturer's warranty. Many homeowners unknowingly void their warranties by neglecting simple maintenance tasks or improper handling during installation and storage.
Important Warranty Notice
Following these guidelines is critical to maintaining your warranty coverage. Failure to comply with manufacturer care requirements can result in denied warranty claims.
Finishing Unfinished Doors
If you purchase an unfinished door product, it is critical to complete the finishing process within one month of site installation. Unfinished wood is vulnerable to moisture, UV damage, and environmental exposure that can cause warping, cracking, and degradation.
- Apply primer and finish coat within 30 days of installation
- Seal all six sides of the door (top, bottom, both faces, and both edges)
- Use exterior-grade finishes rated for Florida's climate
- Failure to finish within 30 days will void the warranty
Protecting Doors During Storage & Installation
The period between delivery and installation is critical for protecting your investment. Improper storage or exposure during construction can cause irreversible damage.
Do NOT
- • Store doors outside on site prior to installation
- • Expose to extreme environmental elements during storage
- • Leave pre-hung doors without face bore protection
- • Install during roof removal or major construction
DO
- • Store in a dry, climate-controlled area
- • Keep doors in original packaging until installation
- • Protect face bore openings from weather
- • Complete installation before exposing to elements
Important: Machined doors cannot be stored outside on site prior to installation. On-site pre-hung doors with no face bore protection from the weather will void the warranty.
Proper Hardware Installation & Sealing
Hardware installation isn't just about functionality—it's about protecting the door's integrity. Improper finishing or assembly of hardware can compromise doors internally.
Critical Sealing Requirements:
- Lockset sealant: Apply sealant properly around the lockset bore hole to prevent moisture intrusion
- Hinge mortises: Seal hinge cutouts to prevent water from entering the door core
- Deadbolt installation: Ensure proper sealing around all hardware penetrations
- Warning: Lack of proper sealant application may compromise doors internally and void warranty
Lubrication Best Practices
Proper lubrication extends the life of your door hardware and ensures smooth operation. However, using the wrong lubricants can cause more harm than good.
Recommended Lubricants
- Silicone-based sprays - Long-lasting, easy-to-clean
- Silicone-based greases - Prevents rust and corrosion
- Graphite lubricant - Ideal for locks and keyholes
Lubricants to Avoid
- Food-grade oils - Can "gum up" hinges over time
- WD-40 (as primary lubricant) - Attracts dust and grime
- Petroleum-based oils - Can damage seals
Pro Tip: Silicone-based lubricants offer a long-lasting, easy-to-clean finish that helps prevent long-term rust and corrosion—perfect for Florida's humid climate.
Annual Maintenance Checklist
Perform these maintenance tasks yearly to keep your doors functioning properly and maintain warranty coverage.
Yearly Inspection & Maintenance Tasks:
- Check for gaps in caulking and fill as needed
- Tighten hinge screws
- Check door closer brackets
- Apply silicone lubricant to hinges
- Lubricate locks and rollers
- Clean and lubricate sliding door tracks
- Inspect weatherstripping for wear
- Test door alignment and adjust if needed
For Sliding Patio Doors:
Clean and lubricate the tracks regularly to prevent drag. Remove debris from the track channel and apply silicone spray to ensure smooth operation.
Cleaning, UV Protection & Rust Prevention
Florida's intense sun and humid conditions require special attention to protect your doors from UV damage, fading, and corrosion.
Wood Exterior Doors
- • UV rays can fade wood stains and coatings over time
- • Reapply sealant or finish if you notice discoloration
- • Inspect annually for signs of weathering or cracking
- • Consider UV-resistant finishes for south-facing doors
Fiberglass Front Doors
- • Clean tougher stains gently with appropriate cleaners
- • Use mild, non-abrasive cleaners (gentle soap + water)
- • Fiberglass resists warping but can get surface marks
- • Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing pads
Iron & Steel Doors
- • Regularly inspect for rust spots, especially at edges
- • Touch up paint where finish has chipped
- • Gently sand rust spots before applying touch-up paint
- • Use matching finish to maintain appearance and protection
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