Doorjamb

House Detective : Episode HDT-701 -- More Projects »
PHOTO
Our homeowner in upstate New York has walked right into trouble thanks to a rotting doorjamb: the two vertical pieces, usually made of wood, that frame the doorway. At the bottom is where trouble usually starts. This is where water can cause the wood to rot over time.

One way to keep water away is to install a storm door. It creates a barrier that helps keep the rain and snow out. But a storm door is not the only answer. Some preventive measures will go a long way toward keeping your doorjambs upright and healthy.


  • Keep the entranceway clean and dry. Make sure to sweep away rain and snow that may accumulate.
  • Caulk and seal the bottom and edges of the doorjamb, every 3-5 years, depending on weather conditions.
  • Inspect the doorjamb at least once a year for rotting wood.

If the doorjamb has deteriorated repair it right away. That's a project best left to a professional. But, with some preventive maintenance you can keep your doorjamb on the threshold of a healthy life.
Guests
Tom Sherman
President- Absolute Home Inspection, Inc.
3269 West Seneca Turnpike
Syracuse, NY 13215
Phone: 315-673-1755
E-mail: tom@absolutehomeinspection.com
Website: www.absolutehomeinspection.com
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