During the winter months in Canada, specifically in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), exterior doors can take a beating from the cold temperatures, snow, and ice. Here are some tips on how to protect your door during the winter season in the GTA:

1. Install a storm door: A storm door is an extra layer of protection that can help insulate your home and prevent cold air from seeping through the gaps around your exterior door. It is particularly useful in the GTA, which experiences harsh winter weather.
2. Check for gaps and drafts: Inspect your door and frame for any gaps, cracks, or drafts letting in cold air. Use weatherstripping, caulking, or door sweeps to seal openings and prevent heat loss. This is especially important in the GTA, where temperatures can drop significantly below freezing.
3. Keep the door clean: Snow and ice can accumulate on your door and cause damage over time. In the GTA, where snow is common during winter, use a broom or brush to remove any snow or debris, and wipe the door down with a soft cloth to prevent ice from forming.
4. Use a de-icer: If your door is frozen shut due to the harsh winter conditions in the GTA, do not force it open, as this can cause damage. Instead, use a de-icer or rubbing alcohol to melt the ice and loosen the door.
5. Lubricate the hinges and locks: Cold temperatures can cause the hinges and locks on your door to freeze or become stiff. In the GTA, where temperatures can drop below -20°C, use a silicone-based lubricant to keep them functioning smoothly.
6. Avoid slamming the door: Slamming your door can cause the frame to shift or the hinges to become loose. Be gentle when opening and closing the door, and use a doorstop to prevent it from slamming shut, especially in the GTA, where strong gusts of wind are common.
7. Keep the area around the door clear: Snow, ice, and debris can accumulate around your door and prevent it from opening and closing properly. In the GTA, where snowfall can be heavy, keep the area around the door clear and free of obstructions. This will help prevent damage to your door and keep it functioning smoothly during winter.

Contact us if you need to install a new door or repair  your door. We've seen the damage the cold winter months can do over time.