How to Fix a Water Damaged Door Frame

Water events happen, and never when you expect them — a pipe bursts. The rain pours into your house through a hole in the roof. The sewer backs up. A flood takes over your finished basement. It’s part of home ownership, albeit not a homeowner’s favorite experience by far.

The key to recovering is to assess the damage done and make repairs as necessary. This includes checking all your door frames, also called door jambs. Many people overlook door frames in favor of more obvious items, such as carpets and furniture. However, door jambs are just as susceptible to water damage, mold growth and rot.

Here's how to fix door frame damage and ensure your door frames are all safe to operate.

1. Check Each Part of the Door Frame

Do a once-over by visually and physically inspecting the door frame. Sometimes, it’s obvious to see where the damage is. Many door frames suffer water-induced rot around the bottom, where the floor became drenched. However, your water event might have occurred in the ceiling, leading to problems above and below.

A wooden door frame that’s rotten will “give” when you touch it. Be sure to investigate all the areas of the frame by pushing with your fingers. Note the places that seem to be damaged because these will need to be replaced.

2. Evaluate the Extent of Rotting

The problem with wood rot is that it may look nominal, but it can actually be widespread. Alone or with the help of a professional, such as someone from ServiceMaster of Lincoln Park, begin to remove the rotten parts from the door frame. Don’t be surprised if you discover deeper levels of damage than you expected.

Remove any parts of the door frame that cannot be repaired, even if that means taking out a majority of the door frame. As soon as wood has reached this level, it will never return to its previous state.

3. Replace the Damaged Parts With Substitute Wood

After taking out the damaged wooden door frame areas, you can then replace them with similar wood that has been cut and measured. Again, this is best handled by an expert unless you have the tools and know-how to safely and securely get the job done.

In the meantime, take time to clean the remaining door frame with a mixture of bleach and water to inhibit future mold growth and completely sanitize the jamb.

4. Repaint or Stain the Door Frame

Finally, you’re ready to put the finishing touches on your restored door frame! Using paint or a stain, bring your door jamb back to new. Be sure to allow enough time for it to dry.

As always, ServiceMaster of Lincoln Park is ready to assist you with any water damage on your door,  window frames or laminate flooring. Simply give us a call, and we’ll work quickly to bring your home or apartment back to health and completeness.