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How to Care for Your External Door: Expert Tips from T.H. Wiggans Ironmongery Ltd

This is an image showing a decorator staining a front door

T.H. Wiggans Ironmongery Ltd |

How to Care for Your External Door: Expert Tips from T.H. Wiggans Ironmongery Ltd

At T.H. Wiggans Ironmongery Ltd, located in Kendal, the gateway to the Lake District, we have been a trusted supplier to tradespeople and the general public since 1976. We offer a wide range of architectural ironmongery, general hardware, and doors, making us the area's leading supplier with over 30 internal doors and over 1000 door handles on display. Whether you are a joiner, builder, architect, or a homeowner refurbishing your property, our expertise and extensive product range will meet your needs. This blog will provide valuable tips on how to care for your external door , ensuring it remains a beautiful and functional feature of your home for years to come.

Importance of Proper Care for External Doors

Solid wood or wood veneer doors need protection to maintain their natural character. Temperature changes and humidity are major factors that can cause a wooden door to warp or swell. Proper care involves the right sealant or treatment application, protecting your door from the elements, and ensuring longevity.

Benefits of T.H. Wiggans’ Location in Kendal

Being based in Kendal, Cumbria, in the North West of England, we offer quick delivery locally and supply nationally through LPD's home delivery service. Our strategic location not only allows us to serve the local community efficiently but also positions us as a central hub for national deliveries. This advantage helps us cater to the needs of tradespeople, homeowners, and architects across the country.

Step-by-Step Guide to Caring for Your External Door

1. Protect Your Door from Environmental Factors

A timber door will last longer when installed under a porch or canopy, especially if it faces south or south-westerly, where it may suffer sun damage. Applying the correct sealant or treatment is crucial for protecting the door from temperature fluctuations and humidity.

2. Preparation Before Treatment

Before treating your door, remove all hardware and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the treatment. Ensure you use the recommended number of coats to achieve optimal protection.

3. Regular Maintenance

  • Re-treatment: Re-treat your door every two to three years, or as recommended by the sealant or treatment manufacturer. This helps maintain the protective barrier against environmental factors.
  • Cleaning: Regularly wipe your door with a cloth. Check the door's specifications before using soapy water, a damp cloth, or a dry cloth. Avoid using power washers as they can damage the surface.
  • Track and Mechanism Care: Vacuum or brush door tracks and sliding mechanisms to remove dirt that can hinder smooth operation.

4. Hardware and Ironmongery

  • Inspection: Check weatherstrips and draught excluders regularly, replacing them when necessary.
  • Maintenance: Inspect hardware and ironmongery for damage, oil moving parts, and replace damaged components as needed.
  • Rust and Wear: Examine metal parts for rust and plastic components for wear and tear, addressing any issues promptly.

5. Glazing and Security

Ensure cracked glazing is replaced immediately. This not only compromises your security but also affects the thermal efficiency of your home.

Expertise in External Doors at T.H. Wiggans

At T.H. Wiggans, we offer a vast range of external doors, including oak, hardwood, hemlock, redwood, and GRP doors. Our expertise ensures you receive high-quality products that are built to last. With our comprehensive selection and quick delivery options, you can trust us to provide the best solutions for your external door needs.

Detailed Product Information

Our extensive range of external doors caters to various aesthetic preferences and functional requirements:


  • Oak Doors: Known for their strength, durability, and timeless appeal, oak doors add a touch of elegance to any entrance. They are perfect for traditional and modern homes alike.
  • Hardwood Doors: Offering excellent durability and resistance to wear and tear, hardwood doors are ideal for high-traffic entrances. They come in various finishes to match your home's exterior.
  • Hemlock Doors: Lightweight yet sturdy, hemlock doors are a popular choice for their versatility and smooth texture, making them easy to paint or stain.
  • Redwood Doors: Known for their natural beauty and resistance to decay, redwood doors are a sustainable option that offers both aesthetic and functional benefits.
  • GRP Doors: Glass Reinforced Polyester doors are highly durable, low-maintenance, and available in a range of styles and finishes. They offer excellent insulation and security.

Customer Testimonials

Our customers’ satisfaction is our top priority. Here are a few testimonials from our valued clients:


  • "The quality of the external doors we purchased from T.H. Wiggans is exceptional. They not only look great but have also improved the energy efficiency of our home." - Sarah J.
  • "As a builder, I always recommend T.H. Wiggans to my clients for their wide range of doors and hardware. Their products are top-notch, and the service is unbeatable." - John D.
  • "We refurbished our home with new external doors from T.H. Wiggans, and the transformation is incredible. The staff was very knowledgeable and helped us choose the perfect doors." - Emily R.

Local Focus

Our location in Kendal allows us to serve the local community effectively. We understand the unique needs of our customers in Cumbria and the surrounding areas. Our quick delivery service ensures you get your products on time, whether you are located nearby or further afield.

Industry Trends

Staying updated with the latest trends in door design and materials is essential. Currently, there is a growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient doors. At T.H. Wiggans, we offer eco-friendly options that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also contribute to a greener environment.

Sustainability Practices

At T.H. Wiggans, we are committed to sustainability. We source our materials responsibly and offer products that meet high environmental standards. Our range of external doors includes options made from sustainably sourced wood and energy-efficient GRP doors.

Conclusion

Caring for your external door is essential to preserve its beauty and functionality. By following these tips, you can ensure your door remains a standout feature of your home. At T.H. Wiggans Ironmongery Ltd, we are dedicated to providing top-quality products and expert advice to help you achieve the best results. Whether you are a tradesperson, architect, or homeowner, our extensive range and knowledgeable team are here to support you every step of the way.


For more information or to explore our range of doors and hardware, visit us at Unit 10 Lake District Business Park, Mint Bridge Road, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 6NH, or contact us at 01539 727188 or info@thwltd.co.uk .