Proper Care
Proper care is essential for maintaining your entry door's beauty, functionality, and security over the years. While both steel and fiberglass doors from Champion Windows are engineered for durability, following some basic maintenance practices will help maximize their performance and lifespan.
Champion Insight
The maintenance your entry door requires depends largely on its material. Steel doors might need occasional touch-up paint, while fiberglass doors typically require just regular cleaning. Regardless of material, it's important to periodically check weather stripping, tighten hardware, and consider professional inspections to keep your door functioning like new for years to come.
Steel Entry Door Maintenance
Steel doors are renowned for their strength and resilience, but they benefit from periodic attention to maintain their finish and thermal efficiency.
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Routine Cleaning
Wipe down your door with a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt and debris. Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners that could damage the painted surface or expose the metal underneath.
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Touch-Up Paint
Regularly inspect for chips, scratches, or worn spots in the finish. Promptly touch up any damaged areas to prevent rust formation and preserve your door's attractive appearance.
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Hardware Care
Check hinges, locks, and handles to ensure they're operating smoothly. Apply lubricant to moving parts as needed to eliminate squeaks and maintain proper function.
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Weatherproofing Check
Examine weather stripping annually and replace it if it shows signs of cracking, brittleness, or compression. This helps maintain energy efficiency by preventing air and moisture infiltration.
Fiberglass Entry Door Maintenance
Fiberglass doors offer wood's beautiful look with significantly less upkeep. Their durable, non-porous surface is remarkably easy to maintain, though a few simple care steps will keep them looking their best.
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Regular Cleaning
Use a damp cloth or mild detergent to wipe away dust, pollen, and everyday grime without harming the finish.
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Staining and Sealing (if applicable)
For fiberglass doors with a woodgrain finish, occasional refinishing may be necessary to preserve the color and texture. Refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for timing and product selection.
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Damage Inspection
While highly resistant to dents and warping, it's wise to examine your fiberglass door after severe weather events. Look for any cracks, surface damage, or moisture accumulation.
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Hardware Maintenance
Periodically tighten loose hinges, screws, or lock components. Keeping hardware secure ensures the door operates reliably and maintains proper alignment.
Entry Door Longevity Tips
Regardless of material, these proactive practices can extend your entry door's life and performance:
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Seasonal Inspections
At the beginning of each season, check for signs of wear, moisture intrusion, or changes in door alignment. Early detection helps prevent more significant problems down the road.
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Prompt Repairs
Don't postpone addressing minor issues like sticking locks, chipped paint, or damaged weather stripping. Taking care of small problems quickly helps avoid more costly repairs later.
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Professional Service
Every few years—or more often in challenging climates—consider scheduling a professional inspection. A trained expert can fine-tune your door's fit, adjust hardware, and identify potential issues before they become serious.
Champion's Limited Lifetime Warranty
All Champion entry doors are protected by a comprehensive Limited Lifetime Warranty covering materials, labor, parts, and installation. This warranty provides valuable peace of mind, ensuring that if any issues arise, Champion will make things right—adding lasting value and confidence to your investment.
