how to fix doors after foundation repair

Foundation repair work can sometimes lead to misalignment or damage to doors within a home. Fixing doors after foundation repair typically involves adjusting the door frame, hinges, or the door itself to ensure they function correctly. Here are the steps to fix doors after foundation repair:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Shims
• Carpenter’s level
• Wood screws
• Circular saw (if necessary)
• Chisel (if necessary)
• Hammer

Steps:

1. Identify the Problem:
   • Examine the door to determine how it’s been affected by the foundation repair. Common issues include misaligned frames, sticking doors, or doors that don’t latch properly.
2. Inspect the Door Frame:
   • Check the door frame for any visible signs of misalignment or damage. Look for gaps, cracks, or separations between the frame and the wall.
3. Adjust the Hinges:
   • If the door is not latching properly or rubbing against the frame, try adjusting the hinges:
     • Tighten loose screws on the hinges with a screwdriver.
     • If the door sags, insert shims behind the hinge plates to level it.
     • Use a carpenter’s level to ensure the door is plumb and level.
4. Realign the Strike Plate:
   • If the door latch doesn’t align with the strike plate on the door frame, remove the plate and reposition it to match the latch.
5. Check the Door Clearance:
   • Open and close the door to ensure it has adequate clearance. If the bottom of the door rubs against the floor, you may need to trim the door or adjust the threshold. Use a circular saw to trim the door carefully.
6. Adjust the Door Jamb:
   • If the door frame is misaligned due to foundation movement, you may need to make more significant adjustments:
     • Remove the trim around the door frame to access the jamb.
     • Use a chisel and hammer to remove any excess material or shims that may have been added during the foundation repair.
     • Realign the door frame by adding or removing shims as needed to make it level and plumb.
     • Secure the frame by driving wood screws through the jamb and into the wall framing.
7. Reinstall the Trim:
   • After making adjustments to the door frame, reinstall the trim around the door to cover any gaps and create a finished look.
8. Test the Door:
   • Open and close the door several times to ensure that it operates smoothly, latches securely, and doesn’t rub against the frame or floor.
9. Make Final Adjustments:
   • If the door still doesn’t function properly, make further adjustments as needed to the hinges, strike plate, or door frame until the problem is resolved.
10. Consider Professional Help:
    • If the door issues persist or if the foundation repair has caused extensive damage to the structural integrity of the home, it’s advisable to consult a professional contractor or door specialist for a more comprehensive assessment and repair.

Fixing doors after foundation repair may require a bit of patience and adjustment, but with careful attention to detail and the right tools, you can ensure that your doors function properly and securely once again.