Having a door that always opens when there’s wind is not ideal. It’s a safety hazard, lets in the dirt, and can cause your doors to malfunction. If this has been your problem, we’ve done the research to provide solutions for you!
Here are several ways to fix a door often blown open by the wind:
- Secure the door hinges.
- Install door closer/stopper.
- Install door chain.
- Repair the door frame.
- Reverse the door swing.
It can be annoying to deal with a door suddenly blowing open, especially on windy days. It also poses a danger to your pets and family. We will discuss in detail how to solve this problem. We’ll also provide you with more related information about doors. Keep reading!
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Wind Keeps Blowing Door Open – What To Do?
Doors aren’t always valued for aesthetics; they also serve a functional purpose. So to keep your doors safe and secure during windy weather, here are some fixes:
Secure the door hinges
Double-check if the door is still on the hinges and not off it. If the hinges are not secure, the door can blow open easily. It could also scrape and damage the floor.
You can secure the hinges by tightening the screws. However, replace them with new ones if they seem rusty upon inspection. Usually, hinge screws are an inch long, or for top hinge screws, at least 3-inches long.
Click here to see this all-purpose wood screw on Amazon.
Install door closer/stopper
Door closers or stoppers are the most straightforward fixes for a door that’s always opening. If your current door doesn’t have one, you can install it.
Closers/stoppers allow gentle and slow door closing. Without one, there could be slamming or swinging, potentially damaging the door and its frame. Closers can be either pneumatic or hydraulic.
Pneumatic door closer
This door closer is a good choice if you opt for a more in-budget option. In addition, it works for medium to heavy door duty and is quick and easy to install. You can change the speed by turning the screw on the closer. Just install it correctly as it could be noisy if it’s not.
Click here to see this pneumatic closer on Amazon.
Hydraulic door closer
Choose a hydraulic door closer if your concern is excellent resistance and durability for heavier doors. Though it can be pricier, it’s worth it due to its features and sturdiness.
Click here to see this hydraulic auto door closer on Amazon.
Remember that your choice must suit the weight and style of your door and your budget.
Consider a door chain
Install a door chain if your door closer can’t adequately handle moderate to strong winds in your zone.
This can prevent wear and damage to the closer, especially in heavy-traffic environments. Moreover, it also limits how far a door extends.
Its installation is easy, and door chain kits are widely available. Ensure the chain is made from top-quality materials for more excellent performance and a longer life span.
Click here to see this heavy-duty door chain on Amazon.
Repair the door frame
Do you see cracks or rot on your door frame? If so, this could be why your door quickly bursts open. In this case, repair the door frame and reinstall your screen or storm door.
If the door frame is already old, install a new one. You may do it yourself, or if you’re not confident yet with your DIY skills, call a professional for a more accurate fix.
Reverse the door swing.
If you’ve checked all the previous ways mentioned, but none works, maybe it’s time to reverse your door’s swing direction. Instead of opening inwards, the doors would open outwards.
However, make sure that your door allows for reversal. Most doors can open in both directions, but it’s better to check just in case. Unhinge and unscrew the door, then place the hinges in the reverse direction. This could be a DIY project, or you may hire an expert.
Can Wind Open Closed Doors?
If the wind is strong, then yes, winds can open closed doors. Strong winds like forms of tornadoes or hurricanes can damage not only a door but even an entire house and its foundation.
The possibility of wind opening a closed door would also depend on the following factors:
- Frame type
- Door type and construction
- Wind strength
Generally, one has to turn the knob manually for a closed door to be opened. When a closed door opens because of wind, it could be that there’s no lock, or if there is one, the door latch or lock isn’t fitted properly. It’s also possible that the door and its hinges are misaligned.
The tips in the previous section, like installing a door closer/stopper, door chain, and fixing your door frame and door wing, could help you solve this problem. You may also consider purchasing a storm door for a more secure home against natural calamity threats.
What Causes a Door to Swing Open by Itself?
A door that swings open by itself may spook anyone, especially at night. We did some research and came up with a list of reasons why your door may open on its own:
- Wind
- Pressure change
- Poorly constructed/installed door
- Loose hinges
Wind
Again, strong winds are capable of blowing open doors and damaging houses. A sturdy door that can resist extreme weather will greatly help protect your family.
Install a door stopper and chains for additional wind resistance. In case of hurricanes or tropical storms, check your doors and windows and observe government safety precautions.
Pressure change
There are also instances in a room when a door or window is closed, the other door opens, and vice versa. This happens due to changes in air pressure. You may solve this by reversing the direction of your door swing or by installing a stronger door closer.
Poorly constructed/installed door
If the door is poorly constructed and not installed properly, it could lead to several problems like:
- The door swings open by itself.
- Bad home insulation.
- Compromise house and homeowner’s safety.
You may troubleshoot the problems by tightening the screws and latch, re-installing the door, and providing extra security like door chains, deadbolts, or smart locks. Call a professional if necessary.
Loose hinges and screws
Properly set door hinge screws and locks make a huge difference in your home security. Check if the screws are tight. If not, use a screwdriver to secure them.
If the screws are still coming loose, you may need to repair the screw holes by using a larger screw, some glue-coated matches, or a screw repair kit.
Click here to see this screw repair kit on Amazon.
If you want a more practical option, you may try filling in the hole, then re-driving the screw.
Get thin wood strips or shavings from the same door type/material. Dip them into wood glue, and then, using a hammer, lightly drive them into the hole until it’s filled. Wait for them to dry completely. Once dried, drive the screw into its hole.
When Should I Replace My Door?
As the adage says, nothing lasts forever. So the tell-tale signs that your door needs to rest and be replaced are as follows:
There’s space under or around the door
If there’s light peeking through the door’s frame or casing, and unwanted things like insects or pests are passing under your door, it might signal that it needs replacement. Aside from security problems, the space may also increase your energy consumption and bills.
This gap could be fixed by putting weather strips, but the door might be the problem if you have to do it every season or more frequently.
The door is damaged and worn out
Sometimes, damage is beyond repair. It’s time to say goodbye if you see the following in large areas on your door:
- Large, unattractive dents
- Rotting and rusting
- Peeling and splitting
- Squeaky and damaged hinges
The door is hard to open/close
If you always have to wrestle with your door to open or close it, and it no longer fits the door frame, then you must upgrade your door to solve this.
The door must have expanded due to moisture and seasonal changes. If your door hasn’t shrunk back after a humid period, install a new one.
Final Takeaways
With a quick inspection, you can find the core problem of your door being quickly blown open by the wind. You can immediately perform solutions like securing screws, installing door closers and door chains, or fixing the door frame and door swing.
Your door is one of your lines of protection. So follow the tips and reminders we’ve shared so your door won’t blow open anymore. Later, you’ll enjoy the benefits of your door’s added security, weather resistance, and a smooth close!
If you found this article informative and want to learn more, check out these posts about home doors. Happy living!
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