How to Weatherproof Exterior Double Doors for Rain and Humidity 

When you want to secure your residence or business with double exterior doors, weatherproofing is very important. This is especially true if you reside in an area that is prone to excessive rainfall and/or high levels of humidity. If you do not properly weatherproof your double exterior doors, they may become damaged due to water, causing them to warp, swell, and ultimately shorten their usable life. If you know how to weatherproof your double exterior doors, you can save yourself expense by avoiding repair work in the future and maximizing the useful life of your doors through proper maintenance. 

This guide will help you as a homeowner, architect, or builder learn how to weatherproof your double exterior doors so they will remain in top condition for years to come. 

The Importance of Weatherproofing Your Exterior Double Doors

A exterior double door is exposed to many different outdoor elements such as rain, humidity, and temperature changes. Because they are exposed to these environmental elements, they will eventually become weakened in both strength and appearance without the proper amount of protection. 

Weatherproofing your double exterior doors provides you with the following benefits: 

• Prevents water from seeping through the cracks and edges of the doors 

• Keeps the structural integrity of the doors intact 

• Helps the door operate more efficiently (energy efficiency) 

• Lowers maintenance and repair costs 

• Increases the overall lifespan of the doors 

Because double doors have more joints and edges than a single door, they typically will need to be weatherproofed more carefully. 

Select the Proper Material 

When weatherproofing a door, the first action you need to take is to select a door that will hold up against moisture in its environment; not every material can withstand humidity, and while some materials perform great in humid climates, others do not. 

Fiberglass-reinforced polymer (FRP) doors are a good option because they were specifically manufactured to resist both moisture and stress caused by environmental conditions. These types of doors do not tend to absorb much moisture, thus eliminating any swelling or warping of those doors. FRP doors remain strong and preserve their original look after hours and/or days of being exposed to rain. 

Eurodoor is an established provider of high-quality FRP doors and door frames in India. Eurodoor manufactures products that meet or exceed industry specifications, by utilizing premium quality raw materials and advanced production processes, under the direction of very experienced and skilled employees, to achieve long-lasting durability in both commercial and residential applications.

Seal All Gaps and Joints 

An otherwise good door will have little value if gaps in or around the door allow moisture to penetrate. Sealing all gaps and joints in and around the door will effectively weatherproof the door. 

Pay particular attention to these areas when sealing the door: 

 • The edges of the door panels. 

• The space between two doors. 

• The area where the door is connected to the door frame. 

Using high-quality sealants and weatherproof strips will help to keep moisture and/or air from entering your building through these gaps.

Installing Weather Stripping 

When installed on an exterior door, weather stripping helps keep the outside elements (rain, wind & humidity) from entering your home; it’s very important for double exterior doors that have several points of contact! 

Here are some of the benefits of weather stripping: 

 – You will have improved insulation. 

– You will lessen the amount of water that leaks into the house from the elements. 

– You will create a more energy-efficient home. 

Always replace your weather stripping when it shows signs of wear and tear and verify that it is installed properly in order to maintain its effectiveness. 

Use a Door Sweep As A Water Barrier 

The bottom of a door is often the most overlooked area of a door’s surface, but it is also one of the most common paths for water to enter through. A door sweep can help you stop water from coming into your home and it will not cost you much to install. 

If properly fitted, a door sweep will: 

– Prevent rainwater from entering through the bottom of the door. 

– Prevent dirt and debris from getting inside of your house through the bottom of the door. 

– A door sweep will help provide a better seal around the entire door. 

Make sure the door sweep does not get in the way of the door’s use while still making sure that it fits securely. 

Use Protective Coatings on Your Doors 

All exterior doors are exposed to moisture and humidity, it’s always best to protect the door from these elements with an added layer of protection, even for moisture-resistant materials. 

Consider applying one or more of the following coatings: 

 – Water-resistant finishes 

– UV-protective coatings 

– Anti-fungal treatments 

You will help preserve your door’s finish, and increase its longevity, by using these coatings. Reapply the coatings on a periodic basis. 

Enhancing Drainage at The Doorway 

Water buildup can lead to damage to exterior doors. Efficient drainage must be present to guide water away from the entrance. 

To enhance drainage effectiveness, possible alterations include: 

– Ground should be sloped away from entrance 

– Installation of drainage channels, where necessary 

– Avoidance of stagnant water repository near entrance 

A decrease in water on your exterior doors translates to increased longevity. 

Important Additions 

A structure, such as a canopy, can be added to help prevent excess rain from coming in contact with the door, due to the overhang of the structure. This prevents the door from coming in direct contact with rain, thereby prolonging the door’s useful life. 

Although a structure may not be needed in every situation, it is a sensible method of extending the life of your doors and improving their weather resistance.

Continuity of Maintenance 

Weatherproofing is not a one-time act or process. Regular weather-proofing is required to maintain your doors effective performance over time. 

Suggested maintenance includes: 

– Periodic inspection of seals and weather stripping 

– Periodic inspection for cracks or voids 

– Regularly cleaned door surface 

– Regularly renewing protective coatings 

Routine maintenance enables you to detect possible problems early and eliminate expensive repairs. 

Summary: Protect Your Investment 

In order to achieve long lasting durability, efficiency and value of your exterior double doors; it is critical to weatherproof the exterior doors. Each step of the process, from selecting the proper materials, to properly sealing void areas, to maintaining adequate drainage around the door, assists in protecting your exterior doors from rain and humidity. 

By utilizing quality double doors as well as implementing the appropriate weatherproofing techniques, you can have confidence in the quality and reliability of your double doors for many years. Be wise in your purchases today to ensure that your double doors will remain stable, secure and aesthetically pleasing no matter what the weather.