How To Adjust French Doors

French doors add a touch of elegance and charm to any home. They are popular for their unique ability to bring in natural light, provide access to the outdoors and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of a room. However, over time, French doors may become misaligned due to wear and tear, causing them to not close properly or create gaps that let in drafty air. 

Adjusting your French doors can be an easy and cost-effective solution to these issues. In this guide, we will discuss the steps involved in adjusting French doors. You don't need any special tools or skills - just some patience and attention to detail.

So if you've noticed your French doors aren't functioning as they should, keep reading to learn how to adjust them and restore their functionality and beauty.

What Is the Cause of Misaligned French Doors?

Misaligned French doors can be caused by a variety of factors, from simple wear and tear to structural issues. Some possible causes include settling of the house's foundation, changes in temperature and humidity, loose screws or hinges, or even damage from harsh weather conditions.

Additionally, if your French doors are not properly installed initially, they may become misaligned over time. This is why it's crucial to make sure your French doors are installed correctly and securely from the start.

Diagnosing the cause of misalignment is important, as it will determine the appropriate solution for adjusting the doors. For example, if the issue is due to loose screws or hinges, you may only need to tighten them. However, if the problem is more severe, such as damage from extreme weather conditions, you may need to make more significant adjustments or even replace certain parts.

It's also essential to regularly inspect and maintain your French doors to catch any potential issues early on before they become bigger problems. With proper care and maintenance, you can prevent misalignment and prolong the lifespan of your French doors.

Step-by-Step Guide for Adjusting French Doors

Adjusting French doors involves a simple process that can be done by following these steps:

Inspect and Clean

Before you begin adjusting your French doors, it’s essential to inspect and clean them thoroughly. Start by examining the door frame and surrounding areas for any signs of damage, cracks, or warping that may have contributed to misalignment.

Next, clean the doors and their tracks with a soft cloth and a gentle cleaner to remove dirt, dust, and grease that could hinder their movement. Pay special attention to the hinges and latch mechanism, ensuring they are free from debris.

This step not only helps improve the door's functionality but also provides a clear view of any potential issues that need addressing. Proper maintenance will enhance the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your French doors.

Check Screws and Hinges

Loose screws and hinges are a common cause of misaligned French doors. Therefore, the next step is to check all the screws and hinges on both sides of the door. If any appear loose or damaged, use a screwdriver to tighten them or replace them if necessary.

If you have sliding French doors, make sure the rollers are securely attached and adjusted correctly. You may need to adjust the height of the rollers using an appropriate tool for smoother movement.

Plus, it's a good idea to lubricate the hinges and rollers with a silicone-based spray to reduce friction and make opening and closing the doors easier.

Adjust Door Height

If your French doors are not level, you may need to adjust their height. This can be done by adjusting the screws on the top or bottom of the door frame using a screwdriver. Turn them clockwise to lower the door and counter-clockwise to raise it. Keep checking the level until it is perfectly horizontal.

For sliding French doors, you can adjust the height by turning the adjustment screw located at the bottom of the door frame. Again, make sure to check for levelness after each adjustment.

Adjust Door Latch

If your French doors do not latch properly, it could be due to a misaligned strike plate or a loose latch tape measure mechanism. To fix this, use a screwdriver to adjust the strike plate and ensure it is aligned with the door's latch when closed. This will allow the latch to catch and hold the door securely in place.

Additionally, make sure that all screws on both sides of the door are tight and secure to prevent any movement that may cause misalignment.

Check for Gaps and Adjust Weatherstripping

Finally, check for any gaps between the French doors and their frame. If you notice any, it may be due to worn weatherstripping. To address this issue, you can replace the weatherstripping or adjust it by tightening or loosening the screws on the door jamb.

Weatherstripping is essential as it helps seal your French doors from drafts, dust, and insects. It also improves insulation, reducing energy costs in your home. Therefore, make sure to regularly inspect and maintain your weatherstripping to ensure proper functioning of your French doors.

So these are the basic steps involved in adjusting French doors. It's crucial to follow each step carefully and make small adjustments at a time until you achieve the desired results. With this guide, you can easily adjust your French doors and get them functioning as good as new!

Does It Require Professional Help?

In most cases, you can adjust your French doors on your own with the right tools and techniques. However, if you are not comfortable or confident in doing so, it's always best to seek professional help.

If the cause of misalignment is more severe or requires complex adjustments, it's best to leave it to experienced professionals who have the necessary skills and expertise. Attempting to fix issues beyond your capabilities may result in further damage or even injury.

Additionally, if your French doors are still under warranty, adjusting them yourself may void the warranty. It's essential to check with the manufacturer before making any adjustments on your own.

Choose My City Doors For Your French Doors

At My City Doors, we are dedicated to providing high-quality interior doors and door hardware to enhance the functionality and style of your home.

Our French doors, inspired by the rustic charm of barn doors, have become a popular choice in modern interior design. With options for both wooden and metal finishes, our French doors add a touch of elegance and versatility to any room.

In addition to our wide selection of French doors, we also offer top-of-the-line door hardware that can make a significant difference in style and functionality. From door knobs to hinges, we have everything you need to complete your interior design vision.

So choose My City Doors for your next interior door project? Not only do we provide superior products, but we also offer exceptional customer service and affordable prices.

FAQs

How do you adjust the hinge screws on a French door?

To adjust the hinge screws on a French door, use an allen key to turn the hinge screws. If the door hits the frame or sags, tighten the bottom hinge by turning the screw clockwise. This will raise the door back into the correct position, ensuring that both modern French doors are in the same plane.

How do you perform a diagonal casement adjustment on modern French doors?

A diagonal casement adjustment on modern French doors can be done using an allen key. If the doors are misaligned diagonally, adjust the upper stay bearing or corner bearings by turning the screws in the opposite direction to level the doors. This ensures the doors close properly without gaps.

What should you do if a French door hits the frame when closing?

If a French door hits the frame when closing, check the bottom hinge and corner bearings for any misalignment. Use an allen key to adjust the hinge screws or corner bearing, turning them in the appropriate direction until the door moves freely without hitting the frame.

How do you remove plastic covers to access adjustment points on external French doors? 

To access adjustment points on external doors, first remove the plastic covers on the hinges or corner bearings. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry off the plastic cover, revealing the adjustment screws. After making the necessary adjustments with an allen key, reattach the plastic covers to maintain the door's appearance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, adjusting French doors may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it's easily achievable. Regular maintenance and inspection of your French doors can help prevent misalignment and ensure their longevity.

If you encounter any issues or are unsure about making adjustments on your own, seek professional help to avoid further damage. And when in doubt, choose My City Doors for high-quality French doors and door hardware that will elevate the style and functionality of your home.