Many of us longingly await the warmer weather that comes as winter fades away and a new season springs into action. Exterior spring cleaning is an annual event in many households, but there are often items that get overlooked in all of the hustle and bustle. Small issues can become larger problems when these items are missed, so the next time you’re spring cleaning outside, don’t forget about your doors! Your exterior doors should receive the same care as other areas of your home, and we’ve put together a checklist to help you ensure that nothing is missed this year.

Caring for Your Doors

  1. Clean your doors. Performing a little exterior spring cleaning on your doors is the first step towards determining any potential problems. Spraying with a hose or wiping down with some mildly soapy water can remove dust and grime that makes its way from the road or nearby construction and improve the look of your home all on its own.
  2. Check the integrity. Look for any scratches or damaged accessories, or noticeable cracks and other problems with your weatherstripping. Ensure that the door is fully operational and make note of any issues with your glass inserts, if applicable.
  3. Look for fading or scuffs. You can update your doors easily by applying a new coat of paint or stain that will offer a fresh look and enhance your home’s curb appeal. If you’re changing the color, be sure to use a primer first to make sure that the fresh paint adheres well to the door and will provide a smooth finish.
  4. Check for damaged accessories. If your door hardware is banged up it can detract from the overall look of your home. Replace your knobs, hinges, and other accessories if they’re starting to look too shabby, and give your door an exterior spring cleaning makeover.
  5. Ensure weatherstripping is intact. Your door’s weatherstripping enables it to keep air and moisture out of your home during all seasons and contributes to energy and utility bill savings. Your door should sit snugly against the weatherstripping and create a tight seal to prevent water ingress. If you see any cracks or tears, it may be time to replace your weatherstripping altogether.
  6. Examine any glass inserts. Keeping your glass clean can help you identify any issues quickly and stay on top of damage or defects. As a general rule, if you can see defects from 10 feet away, they should be dealt with – otherwise, your glass is likely in satisfactory condition and can wait for next year’s assessment.

Keep Your Doors Current With Trimlite

At Trimlite, we know how important spring cleaning the outside of your home is. Your doors play an important role, and staying on track with exterior spring cleaning can help you protect the look and performance of your home for many years. Since 1982 we have been manufacturing premium door products that keep our customers secure and add style to their curb appeal, and we can help you do the same. Check out our selection of door products online today and be sure to contact us with any questions.