Back door leaking - what could be the cause?

Hols_blue

Hi there
We have a leak in our back door. It is coming from underneath but also dripping from the corner through the join. Is there anything I can do to fix it or do o need a whole new door?! Will try and upload pics if I can work out how

Aylesbury_Duck

It could be any number of things. Pictures will be important otherwise we're just guessing. Water will find its way in and out and where it's emerging may be nowhere near where it's getting in.

Hols_blue

Sorry my language is a bit simple but I’ve made sure the 2 little water leak holes are clean and clear and I think I’ve worked it out. The black seal that goes around the frame doesn’t extend all the way and there is a gap in the corner where it could be coming in. You know a pvc door has 2 squares. One where window is and one with just a panel. I mean the seal that surrounds the bottom square panel. Does that make sense?! What’s the seal stuff called? I can surely buy some and stick it on if I’m told how?

Hols_blue

How do I upload a photo? I’m on an iPhone.

Aylesbury_Duck

Hols_blue wrote: »

Sorry my language is a bit simple but I’ve made sure the 2 little water leak holes are clean and clear and I think I’ve worked it out. The black seal that goes around the frame doesn’t extend all the way and there is a gap in the corner where it could be coming in. You know a pvc door has 2 squares. One where window is and one with just a panel. I mean the seal that surrounds the bottom square panel. Does that make sense?! What’s the seal stuff called? I can surely buy some and stick it on if I’m told how?

If the seal around the panel is warped, perished, split or otherwise compromised then rain falling against it will find its way in, yes. Its probably called a seal or a gasket. I doubt it's a case of just sticking stuff on, the panel will need to be removed and put back in with a new gasket. Any local glazing company will be able to do it, it's a relatively simple job.

You can test the theory. Dry the door thoroughly, inside and out, then spray or pour water on and around the panel (on the outside!) and see if any emerges on the inside.

Hols_blue

Ok it’s called a wedge seal! There’s a gap and it’s definitelt there where the water is coming in as I just tested it. Where can I buy without having to go online? Also is it easy to remove and replace with a new one?

Aylesbury_Duck

It's easy if you know exactly what you're buying and know how to remove and refit the seal and have the tools for it.

Call a local glazing company and ask them to come and sort it for you. If you try and DIY it without the necessary know-how you risk buying the wrong thing or damaging it or the door trying to fit it.

Hols_blue

Bet they would charge me an arm and a leg for what seems like a 5 min job! I’m skint!!

Aylesbury_Duck

Then you need to work out what to buy in what size, what tools you'll need, if you need any sealant or cement and then try and find a youtube video or other guide to talk you through doing it yourself.

It is probably a five minute job but you're paying them for their expertise, tools and knowledge which will have taken them more than five minutes to gain. You're also covered to an extent because if they order the wrong seal or damage it or the door when fitting the new one, they'll sort it out.

You may be able to do it cheaper yourself but you could also end up mucking it up and paying twice for it. It will also take you much longer than five minutes to do everything you need to do. You've been on here two hours for a start!

Hols_blue

Haha!! True!!

markin

Masking tape and clear silicone? But im sure you can buy the tools and seal off the internet for the same cost. Just find some videos on YouTube.