UPVC French doors are a stylish and practical addition to any home, offering plenty of natural light and easy access to outdoor spaces. However, over time, even the best-made patio doors can develop issues that prevent them from closing properly. 

From slight misalignments to wear and tear in the hinges or locking mechanism, various factors can affect the smooth functioning of your French doors. Instead of letting frustration build, there are several simple steps you can take to fix French doors that aren’t operating as they should. 

Whether the problem is a stiff lock, a door handle that won’t budge, or misaligned hinges, addressing these issues early can save you from bigger headaches down the line.

Why Are My UPVC French Doors Not Opening Properly?

If your UPVC French doors are not opening properly, the most likely culprits are misaligned door hinges, a stiff lock, or even hot weather causing expansion. Loose hinges can throw off the alignment, making it difficult for the door to function smoothly. 

In older doors, worn-out parts such as the lock mechanism or door handle might also contribute to the problem. Poor installation from the outset can lead to issues that gradually worsen over time, particularly if the door wasn’t set properly in its frame. Inspect your patio doors carefully to pinpoint the cause and take the necessary steps to get them back in working order.

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9 Steps To Close French Doors Properly

If your French doors aren’t closing as they should, a few simple adjustments and checks can often solve the problem. Misalignments, debris, or worn-out components can cause your UPVC French doors to stick or not close properly. Follow these 9 steps to troubleshoot common issues and ensure your doors are closing smoothly and securely.

Assess the Situation of Your UPVC French Doors

Begin by taking a close look at your French doors to identify any obvious issues that may be causing them to not close properly. This could include visible damage such as cracks, dents or warping, as well as any misalignments between the door panels and the frame.

Additionally, check for debris, dirt or wear in the hinges and locking mechanism that could potentially hinder smooth door operation. By starting with a thorough examination of your UPVC French doors, you can pinpoint possible problem areas that need attention.

Locate and Adjust Hinges on UPVC French Doors

One of the main reasons for your UPVC French doors not closing properly might be misaligned hinges. It’s crucial to locate them and learn how to adjust the hinge screws accordingly.

Begin by fully opening the door, giving you complete access to the hinge side. Look for small caps covering adjustment screws on each hinge – usually found at both the top and bottom hinges. You may need a flathead screwdriver or an Allen key to remove these caps.

Vertically and Horizontally Align Door Hinges

After uncovering the adjustment screws, it’s time to align your door hinges vertically and horizontally. To do this, you will often find two or three screws on each hinge – typically, one controls horizontal alignment while another takes care of vertical alignment.

Start with the vertical adjustment by turning its corresponding screw clockwise in small increments for optimal movement. Make sure to check your door after every turn; it should slowly realign until your French door is sitting correctly within its frame.

For horizontal adjustments, use a similar method: Turn the necessary screw gently – clockwise if raising or counterclockwise if lowering – until perfect alignment is achieved between both panels of your UPVC French doors.

Identify and Replace Damaged Weather Stripping

Worn out weather stripping can be a major culprit when it comes to French doors that aren’t closing properly. When the stripping starts to wear down, it not only allows drafts and moisture into your home but also leads to the door sticking and becoming difficult to close fully.

Begin by carefully examining the weather stripping around your UPVC French doors. Look for any damage, tears, or visible signs of wear. Additionally, you might want to run your hand along the edges of your doors with them closed partway; if you feel significant drafts or noticeable gaps in between where the two doors meet or where they connect with their frames, this could indicate more subtle wear in your weather stripping.

Remove and Install New Weather Stripping

If you’ve determined that your weather stripping is indeed causing difficulties with closing your French doors, it’s time to remove the old material and install a fresh new strip. Start by gently peeling away the damaged weather stripping; use caution during this process so as not to cause any unnecessary damage to the surface of your UPVC French doors themselves.

Once you have successfully removed all traces of old weather stripping, measure and cut a new piece that corresponds with both length and width needed for each section of your door. With the new strips cut properly according to size, firmly press them onto their corresponding placement areas on each door frame ensuring proper adhesion. Once everything is securely in place;, test opening and closing your refreshed UPVC French doors multiple times just to make sure they are back functioning smoothly again.

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Lubricate French Door Locks

One common reason your UPVC French doors might be difficult to close is due to a dry or dirty locking mechanism. Over time, grime can accumulate within the lock, making it less responsive and more challenging to operate. Applying lubrication can help ensure that your door’s locks work as smoothly as they should.

To properly apply lubrication:

  1. Clean around the keyhole and handle, removing any dust or dirt.
  2. Insert the nozzle of an appropriate lubricant into the keyhole and apply a small amount.
  3. Gently move the key in and out of the lock several times to distribute the lubricant evenly.

Maintain Smooth Functioning Locks

Once you’ve applied lubrication to your French door’s locking mechanism, it’s crucial that you maintain them regularly. Keeping up with this simple maintenance routine can mean all the difference in terms of smooth operation and overall convenience when using your French doors.

Consider adding this task to your general household maintenance schedule, checking for signs of wear or debris every few months. Doing so will not only make closing your UPVC French doors easier but also extend their lifespan by preventing unnecessary strain on components.

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Seek Professional Assistance

When you’ve done your best to troubleshoot and resolve the issue with your UPVC French doors not closing properly, but they still refuse to cooperate, it might be time to consider calling in a professional. Remember, some repairs can be intricate or may require special tools and expertise for long-term success.

Besides being able to find the root cause of the problem more efficiently, professionals have years of experience under their belts, making them equipped to handle any complications that may arise during the repair process. Furthermore, attempting complicated repairs on your own could result in accidental damage or voided warranties.

Ensure Long-Term Functionality

After enlisting the help of an expert for your UPVC French door issues, make sure to keep a regular maintenance schedule. By inspecting hinges, locks and weather stripping periodically, you can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems that require professional intervention.

With proper care and attention, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy smooth operation and lasting durability from your beautiful French doors. Give yourself a pat on the back for being proactive with DIY repairs initially – this experience will undoubtedly come in handy as you continue honing your home improvement skills!

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Looking for Modern External UPVC Door Options?

Maintaining your UPVC doors is essential for ensuring they continue to function smoothly and look great over the years. If these DIY fixes don’t fully resolve the issue, seeking professional assistance will ensure your doors are restored to their original performance. Keep your UPVC French doors in top shape so you can continue enjoying their elegance and functionality for many years to come.

DoorsDirect2U have over 40 years of experience providing internal door and external door solutions to suit all budgets and specifications. You can purchase with confidence safe in the knowledge all products are backed with a manufacturer’s guarantee.

Shop all Patio Doors and French Doors or contact us for expert advice!


UPVC French Doors Not Closing Properly FAQs

Why is my UPVC French door not closing properly?

A UPVC French door may not close properly due to misaligned hinges, worn-out weather stripping, or a faulty lock mechanism. Checking for debris in the hinges or warping in the door can help you identify the root cause.

How do I fix misaligned UPVC doors?

You can fix misaligned UPVC doors by adjusting the hinge screws. Use a flathead screwdriver or Allen key to fine-tune the vertical and horizontal alignment until the door fits properly within the frame.

Can hot weather affect my UPVC doors?

Yes, hot weather can cause UPVC doors to expand, making them harder to open or close. This temporary issue typically resolves when the temperature drops, but adjusting the hinges may help in the meantime.

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Greg Waters, has over 40 years of experience in the Home Improvement industry, working with some of the leading manufacturers and suppliers.

Having witnessed the frustration and confusion that customers often face while searching for their ideal doors and windows, Greg set out to create an online destination that simplifies the process. With a focus on exceptional customer service, unbeatable value for money, and a wide range of products, DoorsDirect2U was born.

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