Door Repair Oakville: Repairing Termite Damage in Exterior Door Frames

Spotting and Fixing Termite Damage Early

• Hollow or soft wood: Termites eat wood from the inside out, leaving behind a thin layer of wood or paint. If you tap or press on the wood and it sounds hollow or feels soft, it may have termite damage.
• Mud tubes: Termites build tunnels of mud and debris to travel between their nest and their food source. If you see mud tubes on or near your door frame, it means termites are active in the area.
• Frass: Frass is the term for termite droppings, which look like small pellets of wood. If you see frass around your door frame, it indicates termite activity and damage.
• Cracks or gaps: Termites can cause cracks or gaps in the wood as they eat through it. These cracks or gaps can also allow moisture and other pests to enter your door frame and cause more damage.

• Remove the damaged wood: Use a chisel, hammer, or saw to remove the wood that has been eaten by termites. Make sure to remove all the affected wood and any mud tubes or frass. Dispose of the wood in a sealed bag or container to prevent termites from spreading.
• Treat the remaining wood: Apply a termite-killing product to the remaining wood to kill any termites that may still be hiding. You can use a spray, foam, or bait product that is designed for wood treatment. Follow the instructions on the product label and wear protective gloves and goggles.
• Replace the wood: Cut a new piece of wood that matches the size and shape of the removed wood. Use nails, screws, or glue to attach the new wood to the existing door frame. Make sure the wood is flush and level with the rest of the door frame.
• Paint or stain the wood: Apply a coat of paint or stain to the new wood to match the color and finish of the rest of the door frame. This will also help seal the wood and protect it from moisture and termites.

Choosing Between DIY and Professional Termite Repairs

• Skill and experience: Do you have the necessary skill and experience to repair the damage yourself? Do you have the right tools and materials? Do you know how to use them safely and effectively? If you are not confident or comfortable with doing the repair yourself, you may want to leave it to the experts.
• Cost and budget: How much will it cost to repair the damage yourself or hire a professional? Do you have enough money to cover the expenses? Do you have a warranty or insurance that covers termite damage? If you do the repair yourself, you may save some money on labor, but you may also incur additional costs for tools, materials, or mistakes. If you hire a professional, you may pay more for labor, but you may also get a better quality and warranty for the repair.
• Time and convenience: How much time do you have to repair the damage yourself or hire a professional? How soon do you need the repair done? How much inconvenience will the repair cause to you and your family? If you do the repair yourself, you may need to spend several hours or days on the project, depending on the complexity and extent of the damage. If you hire a professional, you may need to schedule an appointment and wait for them to arrive and finish the job.
• Quality and durability: How well will the repair last and prevent future termite damage? How satisfied are you with the appearance and functionality of the repair? If you do the repair yourself, you may not be able to achieve the same level of quality and durability as a professional. You may also miss some hidden or hard-to-reach areas that could allow termites to return. If you hire a professional, you may get a more thorough and reliable repair that can withstand termites and other threats.