A short, regular walkthrough catches most door problems while they are still small. This checklist is a starting point you can adapt to your property.
Each door, every visit
- Open and close the door fully. Does it close and latch by itself?
- Watch the speed. Is it slamming, or too slow?
- Look at the closer body and arm for oil, looseness or damage.
- Check the gaps around the door for evenness.
- Check the threshold and bottom edge for scraping.
- Operate the lock or exit device. Does it move smoothly?
- Check weatherstripping, sweeps and gaskets for wear.
- Look for loose screws, handles and trim.
Exit devices
- Does the bar push in smoothly and spring back?
- Does the latch retract fully and extend when the door closes?
- Is the strike aligned?
- Do outside trim and key cylinders work?
Pairs of doors
- Do the doors meet evenly at the center?
- Does the astragal or weatherstrip seal?
- Do both leaves latch?
Record what you find
Note the door location, the issue and the date. Repeat issues on the same door are a signal that something underlying needs attention. A written list also helps when requesting service for several doors in one visit.
Seasonal timing
In the Las Vegas climate, a check before summer and one after is a sensible rhythm for exterior doors, since heat changes closer behavior and sun wears seals.
Correct any life-safety or code-related items with your building owner and local code officials. We can help with the hardware side of what you find.