How to Tell Your Commercial Door Is Warped

Wood doors look elegant, function well, and add a natural feel to a business, all qualities that are beneficial for commercial properties. They can also be a cost-effective material to use when managing large projects. However, Wooden doors can deteriorate over time. One of the most common issues is warping. 

Warping is a clear sign of deterioration that affects how the door fits and functions. Switching to steel may seem like a solution, but steel doors can also warp under certain conditions. Even glass doors are not immune, as extreme temperature changes can cause distortion over time. Warped doors alter the door's shape, allowing everything from cold air to insects inside your business. It can be tough to recognize early enough to handle effectively. It’s important to know the signs of commercial door warping so you can handle it before replacement becomes the only option.

Warping is more common on exterior doors or those exposed to climate fluctuations. Most warping isn't immediately obvious. The good news? You can test your door to see if it's warped. And all you need is a small piece of string. Wrap the string over the top and bottom edges of your commercial door. A 14' string is a good universal length, but you may need a longer one for taller doors. Pull your string tight and notice where the string is in relation to the lockset. Warped doors will have a gap between their edge and the string.  Anything that measures ¼" or larger indicates a warped door.

There is always the possibility that your door will shift back to its original shape once the weather changes. However, most of the time, a warped door will only worsen and require professional attention to repair or replace. It's a particularly frustrating issue for businesses. A warped door typically requires an investment of money and time to address the issue. Despite the cost of repair, failing to address a warped door can make matters much worse.

Problems associated with warping start small but can quickly escalate out of control. 

For instance, warped doors lead to:

• Higher energy costs: Gaps from warping allow cool air to escape and warm air to enter.

• Water intrusion: Rain and storms force water through uneven seals.

• Cleanup and property damage: Pooling water inside creates costly maintenance issues.

• Electrical hazards: Water reaching electrical systems poses a risk to employees and customers.

The sooner you notice and handle warping, the more money you'll save. Your patrons will also be safer. Not to mention, your business will save on energy costs.

There's another reason warping is such a significant issue. Because it's so hard to notice early on, it is often simpler to replace the door by the time you call for repairs. However, there are some minor changes you can make to your door that may be worth investigating while you search for the right solution. Their success hinges on why your door is warped in the first place. Only a few options are available for doors that become warped due to temperature changes.

If you’re dealing with a warped door or want to prevent it from happening again, consider these fixes:

• Adjust the door hinges to improve alignment and closing.

• Sand the edge of the door slightly to help it fit the frame more smoothly.

• Select a high-quality door crafted from materials that resist warping.

• Select doors with insulated cores that improve energy efficiency and minimize warping risks.

• Consult  CDF Distributors for solutions tailored to humid climates.

• Invest in warp-resistant models if warping has been a recurring problem.

If you need a replacement for your warped commercial door, CDF Distributors carries some of the best warp-resistant and durable doors available. Visit us online to browse our options today!