Happy #FixItFriday! Have you noticed the bottoms of your exterior door frames are looking a little unsightly? Have you accidentally kicked off a few wood chips while leaving your house in the morning? Today we’re talking all about frame rot--what causes it, how to spot the signs of frame rot, and how to repair it.
Did you Know?
While many think of moisture damage and rot as issues which develop over time, door frame rot can begin as soon as 3 months after installation.
What are the signs of frame rot?
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Water Wicking: Wood fibers naturally absorb water. This leads to rot, a naturally occurring fungus which grows in moist conditions and feeds on wood fibers. You may notice a musty smell and crumbling sections in your door frame.
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Swelling: Shrinking and swelling occur as wood changes moisture content. This is in response to daily/seasonal changes in the relative humidity of the atmosphere.
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Paint Peeling: If water is left standing on your sills, it can eventually penetrate the paint film. Later, when the water evaporates, the pressure from under the film causes your paint to blister and peel.
The Risks of Frame Rot
Mold and rot can go unnoticed for years. During that time, it will continue to creep along the wood, causing more and more damage in your doorframe.
Repairing rotten or damaged door frames can get costly, going beyond simple patchwork. If left for too long, it may even spread to the frame of your home, threatening the structural integrity and your safety.
How do I repair frame rot in my home?
Wood rot in your door frame can quickly spread to other areas of your home, which can be dangerous for you and your family. The only way to repair a rotten door frame is to completely remove and replace the affected wood. If left for too long, you may need to replace your entire door frame, so be sure to check your door frames for signs of rot regularly.
The rotten section of your door frame will need to be cut away and replaced. A FrameSaver®️ rot repair kit can be used to replace the rotted section of wood on your frame and prevent future wood rot from forming. The composite material completely blocks moisture from your frame, stopping frame rot before it can start. Best of all, it can be painted just like the rest of your door frame! The only difference you’ll notice is the lack of wood rot.
See for yourself how FrameSaver wicks away water to prevent frame rot in the video below:
Stop frame rot before it starts. Download our free guide on the FrameSaver®️ door bottoms and learn more about how it can help protect your home!
