Before you buy aluminum storm doors, there are a few things you should consider. An aluminum door offers durability and energy efficiency, but it may develop issues such as misalignment, difficulty closing, or drafts over time. If your door is not closing properly, adjustments to the hinges, screws, or frame may be necessary to restore smooth operation. This guide will help you identify and fix common problems so that your door functions as it should, and when an issue is beyond fixing yourself, trust the experts at Master Seal for expert door replacement and installation.
Common Reasons for Aluminum Door Misalignment
Understanding why your door is misaligned is the first step in fixing the issue. Here are some of the most frequent causes:
- Loose hinges or screws – Over time and with frequent use, hinges and screws can gradually loosen, leading to a sagging or misaligned door. This can make it difficult to open or close smoothly and may eventually cause further damage if not addressed. Regular maintenance can help prevent this issue.
- Frame shifting – As a house settles over time or experiences external pressure, such as shifting soil or foundation movement, the door frame can become misaligned. This misalignment can lead to gaps around the door or difficulty in closing it properly. Identifying the root cause is crucial to fixing the issue.
- Thermal expansion – Temperature fluctuations can cause aluminum doors and frames to expand during heat and contract when it’s cold. Over time, these repeated changes can affect the door’s fit, creating gaps or causing it to stick. Proper insulation and adjustments can help mitigate this.
- Weather stripping or seal interference – Worn-out, damaged, or misaligned weather stripping or seals can block the door from closing fully or reduce its efficiency in keeping out drafts, moisture, or noise. Regularly inspecting and replacing these components can ensure a proper fit and optimal performance.
By identifying the specific cause of the misalignment, you can take the appropriate steps to resolve the issue effectively. Addressing the problem promptly helps maintain the door’s functionality and prolong its lifespan.
How to Adjust an Aluminum Door
Step 1: Tighten Hinges and Screws
The first thing to check is whether the hinges or screws are loose. Using a screwdriver or drill, tighten them to ensure the door stays in place. If a screw hole has become too large, replacing it with a bigger screw or reinforcing it with a wooden dowel and glue can help. Damaged or rusted screws should also be replaced to maintain stability.
Step 2: Adjust Hinges for Proper Alignment
If the door still does not close properly, adjusting the hinges may be necessary. If the door has dropped, loosening the bottom hinge slightly and tightening the top hinge can help lift it back into place. On the other hand, if the door sticks at the top, loosening the top hinge and tightening the bottom one may resolve the issue. Some hinges have built-in adjustment screws that allow for minor corrections in height or side-to-side movement.
Step 3: Realign the Door Frame
When hinge adjustments do not resolve the problem, the door frame may be the issue. Using a level, check if the frame is square. If it is out of alignment, slightly loosening the screws that hold it in place allows for repositioning. Carefully adjusting the frame and then retightening the screws can restore proper function. In cases where the frame has warped significantly, professional repair or replacement may be necessary.
Step 4: Fix Gaps and Latching Issues
If there are gaps around the door or difficulty latching, inspecting the weather stripping is a good place to start. If it is worn or improperly placed, replacing it can improve the seal. The strike plate may also need adjustment to align with the latch. By slightly loosening the screws on the strike plate and shifting it as needed, the door should latch more smoothly. Ensuring the lock mechanism lines up properly is also essential for security and ease of use.
Step 5: Address Thermal Expansion Issues
Aluminum expands in hot temperatures and contracts when it is cold, which can cause misalignment. If the door tends to stick during the summer, a minor hinge adjustment can provide the necessary clearance. Choosing a well-designed aluminum door, such as those from Master Seal, can help minimize these expansion-related problems, as they are built to account for temperature fluctuations.
When to Call a Professional
While minor adjustments can often be done at home, there are times when professional help becomes necessary. For example, if the frame is significantly warped, making it difficult to open or close properly, or if the locking mechanism refuses to function despite your best attempts at realignment, it’s likely time to call in an expert.
Additionally, persistent shifting or misalignment, even after multiple adjustments, may point to more serious structural issues within the home, such as foundation settling or moisture damage. Ignoring these signs could lead to further complications over time, making a professional evaluation not just helpful but essential for maintaining the integrity and safety of your space.
Preventing Future Issues
To keep your aluminum door functioning smoothly, consider the following maintenance steps:
- Regularly check and tighten screws to prevent sagging
- Avoid slamming or forcing the door, which can strain hinges and alignment
- Invest in high-quality aluminum doors that resist thermal expansion and shifting
- Schedule periodic inspections to catch minor issues before they become serious
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can extend the lifespan of your aluminum door and ensure it continues to operate reliably. Taking a proactive approach will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.
Leave Your Storm Door Installation to the Professionals at Master Seal
If your aluminum door is not closing properly, simple adjustments to the hinges, screws, and frame can often resolve the issue. For long-term durability and fewer alignment concerns, high-quality doors from a trusted provider like Master Seal are a smart investment. When DIY fixes are not enough, consulting a professional can ensure that your door remains secure, functional, and efficient. Call 855.608.1580 or connect with us online today.
