How Ottawa humidity affects your wooden garage door panels is a major concern for many local homeowners this season. We understand that natural wood looks beautiful on a traditional home in the capital region. Our team observes that high moisture levels cause the wood fibers to expand and swell. Because we want your door to last, we suggest checking for signs of warping immediately. We notice that doors become much heavier when they absorb water from the humid air. Consequently, the extra weight puts massive strain on your springs and your opener motor. Furthermore, we believe that regular sealing prevents the moisture from entering the delicate wood grain.
Using a high-quality water repellent ensures that your door stays light and easy to move. This process ensures that your investment remains protected from the damp Ontario climate all year. We provide the Best Garage Door repair in Ottawa to help you keep your exterior looking fresh. Furthermore, our technicians can check the balance of your heavy garage door panels to ensure they glide smoothly. This allows your home to maintain its curb appeal without sacrificing the function of the door. Proper ventilation in your garage also helps reduce the risk of rot and mold growth. We prioritize your home’s beauty by offering expert advice on wood care and maintenance.
Our team finds that many people ignore small cracks until the wood begins to rot. We see that these cracks allow insects to enter the panels and cause structural damage. Additionally, we check the bottom of the door for any signs of water pooling. Furthermore, we ensure that your weather seals are tight enough to keep the rain out. This attention to detail saves you from expensive replacement costs in the long run. We prioritize a dry and healthy garage environment for every customer we serve. Consequently, a well-sealed door operates much more quietly than a warped and swollen one. We believe that wood doors require a special touch to stay in top shape. Our team uses the best sealants to block the Ottawa humidity from causing damage.
We take the time to inspect the hinges to make sure they aren’t pulling loose. This happens when the wood gets soft from too much moisture over many years. Furthermore, we suggest painting or staining your door every few years to maintain protection. This keeps the sun from drying out the wood after the humid summer ends. We prioritize your peace of mind by delivering repairs that handle the changing seasons. Our team stays busy helping Ottawa families protect their luxury wooden garage doors. We enjoy seeing a beautiful door that works perfectly despite the high humidity. Please Contact Us if your wooden door feels sticky or looks warped today.
Why Moisture Causes Wood to Warp and Twist
Wood is a porous material that acts like a sponge when it gets wet. We find that the outer layers of the door often expand faster than the inner layers. Additionally, this uneven growth causes the panels to bow and twist out of shape. Furthermore, a warped door will rub against the metal tracks and cause a loud screech. Consequently, the door might get stuck halfway up or fail to close tightly at the bottom. We prioritize straightening your tracks to accommodate minor shifts in the wood panels. Our team can also trim the edges of the panels to prevent them from binding. This ensures that your door stays operational even during the most humid months of the year.
The Importance of Sealing the Top and Bottom Edges
Many painters forget to seal the very top and bottom edges of the garage door. We see that these hidden areas are where most of the water enters the wood. Additionally, the bottom edge sits in the snow and rain for months at a time. Furthermore, unsealed edges allow moisture to travel up into the center of the panel. Consequently, the wood begins to delaminate and fall apart from the inside out. We suggest applying a thick coat of exterior-grade sealer to every single surface. Our team can perform this service to ensure your door is fully waterproofed. This simple step can double the life of your wooden garage door panels.
How to Spot Early Signs of Rot in Your Panels
Checking for rot is essential to prevent a total door failure in your home. We find that soft spots near the hinges are the first sign of trouble. Additionally, you might see the paint bubbling or peeling away in large flakes. Furthermore, the wood may feel spongy if you press on it with a screwdriver. Consequently, the hardware might pull right out of the wood during a normal cycle. We suggest inspecting your door after a long period of heavy rain or snow. Our team can replace individual sections of the door if the rot is localized. This saves you money by avoiding a full door replacement for your garage.
FAQ
Can I paint over rot to hide the damage?
Painting over rot will not stop the wood from decaying further inside. We recommend replacing the damaged wood before applying a new coat of paint.
How often should I seal my wooden garage door?
We suggest applying a new coat of sealer every two to three years in Ottawa. This keeps the moisture out and prevents the wood from warping.
Why is my wooden door so much louder in the summer?
Humidity makes the wood swell, which causes more friction against the metal tracks. We can lubricate the system to make it run much quieter.
Is it normal for wood doors to have small cracks?
Small hairline cracks are common as wood ages and dries out over time. However, deep cracks should be filled and sealed to prevent water from entering.
Can I use a pressure washer on my wooden garage door?
No, a pressure washer can force water deep into the wood grain and cause damage. It is better to use a garden hose and a soft brush.