Sweaty Windows & Doors That Don't Fit

SWEATY WINDOWS & DOORS THAT DON'T FIT

This particular topic actually entails quite a few different problems not the least of which is moisture in the home and ventilation. We have dealt with some of that in Topic 4. Mold & Mildew but will review a few of the same things here again. Homeowners often think that these two problems are caused by the same things, that they simply need new windows and doors, but this isn't always the answer. Remember that your job is to help them save money while solving their inherent problems in the home efficiently. While it may be true that the windows are outdated and the doors are at the end of their life cycle simply replacing them with new ones rarely fixes the problem. We have to look at the underlying causes.

Sweaty Windows

Sweaty windows, windows that have moisture either on them or along the window frame and sill, can be more of a symptom than a direct problem by themselves. Lets look at some of the causes of condensation on window surfaces:

Older, single-glazed windows with metal frames.

Older, single-glazed windows in either a wood or other type of frame.

Older double-glazed windows in metal or wood frames.

Poor insulation around the window opening or no insulation inside wall cavities.

Excess moisture in the air in that particular room (assuming the problem is on only one or two windows).

Excess moisture in the air in the whole home.

Poor ventilation in the room or the whole home.

If any of these exist, or any combination of them, the problem must be handled in a step-by-step manner. First the homeowner needs to deal with the moisture problem in the home or room and then consider replacing the old windows.

Tip - Installing new windows, even the best quality with Low-e and argon features, will not stop the condensation problem if excess moisture remains in the air.

Poor Fitting or Sticky Doors

Poor fitting or sticky doors, both interior and exterior ones, can be the result of many things. Although excess moisture in the home can cause doors to stick from time to time, it's rarely the cause. There are homes that change seasonally, as the humidity and temperature change, thus causing certain doors to stick more than at other times but that is more rare. If that is what is happening then the solution is to remove the door, shave it down about a quarter of an inch in height or an eight of an inch in width, and re-hang it.

Poor fitting, sticky or wobbly doors are usually the result of either a poor installation, extreme wear, or major settling of the house structure. If, in an extreme case, the door is jammed and will not open, or the span is quite large over the door and it won't open, then the fix is more involved. In this case the header has failed, or is inadequate for the weight above, and more examination is needed. Inside wall mouldings will have to be removed and the drywall cut. The homeowner will need to be aware of the need and the method you plan to use, otherwise you'll have to simply let him know what your suspicions are without opening up the wall.

For the other scenario, doors that are a nuisance but otherwise open and close, there are some simple things either you or the homeowner can do:

Remove any existing door trim on both sides of the door frame (jamb). If there are no mouldings and the drywall is installed right up to the frame, it will have to be carefully cut away in a nice straight line.

Once the trim is off, examine the space between the door frame and the accompanying wall stud. There should be a small, narrow space between the two, and perhaps some door shims or other kind of filler. You may encounter cardboard, foam, batting or wood filler.

Without removing anything else try to leverage the door a bit either way, using a pry bar or crow bar. As you force it a bit one way try the door to see if it made it worse or better. Trial and error will lead to a more easily swinging door. Once the door works better door shims can be installed to secure it in place before the trim is re-attached. Keep trying the door at each step.

For exterior doors the same technique will work but more care should be taken regarding insulation and water protection.

If the whole door needs to be replaced then be honest with the homeowner and lay out all of the options.

Tip - If the door frame or jamb is in good shape the homeowner can replace just the door slab. A detailed drawing will be needed showing where all of the hinges and holes are as well as the measurements of the width, height and thickness. Any home centre, hardware store or lumberyard should be able to accommodate the request.