McKay Joinery takes great care in making our doors and windows, and there are some important things you need to do to ensure that their premium quality continues for many years after installation.
Climatic changes, such as exposure to direct sunlight or rain, will have a detrimental effect on any solid timber doors and windows, so we recommend the hanging of doors and windows in locations where this is less likely to occur. Internal heating and cooling can have an adverse effect too. As a result, the following measures must be taken for all doors and windows, whether internal or external:
- Doors and windows must be stored flat in a dry area. Avoid damp, moist or freshly plastered areas and do not store on concrete.
- They must be inspected upon delivery for any visible defects and any claims must be made before the doors and/or windows are fitted and before the first coat of paint or stain is applied.
- Doors must receive at least two coats of paint, varnish or sealer on all six sides without delay and prior to hanging. This is vitally important – failure to coat all six sides of a door will void all warranties.
- External doors and windows that are even partially exposed to the sun must be painted in a light-reflecting colour. Dark colours must be avoided to prevent heat damage.
- Doors should be reduced in size equally from both sides when fitting.
- Regular cleaning and maintenance of your doors and windows is required to prevent the breakdown of paint film and to protect the timber from deterioration.
Please note, spiral balances to double-hung windows are guaranteed for one year.
Stephen, carefully assembling a timber window frame in our workshop.
Painting and finishing of doors
There are also special considerations with regard to the painting and finishing of doors. Fundamentally, this must be done before the door is hung. For best results, paint or varnish should be applied with the door lying flat, and of course, we recommend using the best quality exterior paint or varnish and following the manufacturer’s instructions for application carefully – extra attention before installation can deliver many extra years of enjoyment. “Primer only” products will not provide adequate protection for the door and, as a result, the door may bow, twist or warp over a very short period of time.
It’s also important that the top and bottom edges, all faces and any “cut-outs” for letterboxes, locks and hinges are fully painted before the door is hung. Completely sealing the “end grain” on the top and bottom of the door is absolutely vital, as this is where moisture can most easily penetrate the timber, leading to swelling, splitting and warping.
Ultimately, timber is a naturally grown product that is subject to changes due to variations of humidity and temperature. All of our timber is checked for moisture content prior to manufacture, but we can’t be aware of all the circumstances and locations in which our products are stored and installed, so can’t give any guarantee against shrinkage, splitting and warping. Following the above guidelines will help you to ensure that it doesn’t happen and that your new timber doors and windows stay in great condition for decades to come.