Why Do Internal Doors Swell in Winter? Causes and Solutions

Key Takeaways

Key Elements of Internal Door Swelling in Winter

• Changes in humidity and temperature
• Proper installation and finishing
• Regular maintenance and adjustments

Introduction

As the cold winter months approach, many homeowners may notice that their internal doors start to swell, making them difficult to open and close. This is a common issue, even with high quality solid oak doors, due to the natural properties of wood. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind internal door swelling in winter and provide tips on how to prevent and address this problem.

The Science Behind Door Swelling

Wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning it absorbs and releases moisture from the surrounding environment. During the winter months, the humidity levels inside homes tend to increase due to factors such as central heating, reduced ventilation, and moisture from cooking and showering. As the wood absorbs this excess moisture, it expands, causing the door to swell.

• Temperature changes also play a role
• Expansion and contraction of wood fibres
• More noticeable in solid wood doors

The Importance of Proper Installation and Finishing

To minimise the risk of internal door swelling, it is crucial to ensure that the doors are installed correctly and finished properly. This includes:

• Allowing the doors to acclimatise to the home's environment before installation
• Ensuring that the doors are hung with an adequate gap around the edges
• Applying a high-quality finish, such hardwax oil, to protect the wood from moisture

Proper installation of door lining sets can also help to reduce swelling by providing a stable frame for the door to sit within.

Maintaining Internal Doors Throughout the Year

Regular maintenance is key to keeping internal doors in good condition and minimising the effects of seasonal swelling. Some tips include:

• Cleaning the doors regularly with a soft, dry cloth
• Avoiding excessive moisture near the doors, such as wet umbrellas or coats
• Ensuring adequate ventilation in the home to regulate humidity levels
• Checking and adjusting hinges and latches periodically

Addressing Swollen Doors

If your internal doors do swell during the winter months, there are several steps you can take to address the issue:

1. Adjust the hinges: Loosening or tightening the hinges can help to realign the door and improve its fit within the frame.
2. Plane the edges: In more severe cases, you may need to remove the door and carefully plane down the edges to create more clearance. This should be done gradually to avoid removing too much material.
3. Use a dehumidifier: Placing a dehumidifier in the room can help to reduce the humidity levels and minimise further swelling.

It is important to note that glazed oak doors may be less affected by swelling due to the presence of glass panels, which do not expand or contract with changes in moisture.

Conclusion

Internal door swelling in winter is a common issue faced by many homeowners, including those with solid oak doors. By understanding the causes of this problem and taking steps to prevent and address it, you can ensure that your doors continue to function smoothly throughout the colder months. Remember to invest in proper installation, finishing, and maintenance, and don't hesitate to make adjustments as needed to keep your internal doors looking and performing their best.

Whether you have standard internal doors or more specialised options like bathroom doors, taking a proactive approach to door maintenance will help to ensure their longevity and functionality for years to come.