Can Helical Piers Fix Sticking Windows and Doors?

If the cause of your jammed windows and doors is foundation settling, then the first step in repairing your home is stabilizing the foundation. This can be done with helical piers, which are driven into the ground so that they may support your foundation. While helical piers are highly efficient, it’s not always guaranteed that you’ll be able to have a perfectly functioning window or door. 

When It Can Be Fixed 

When a foundation is settling, the house is tilting to one side, which is what causes the warped window and door frames. Helical piers don’t just stop the house from sinking further, they also can potentially level the house as well. When the house is evened out again, the weight of the home is distributed properly, and the pressure the door and window frames once experienced is then released. 

By alleviating the pressure, the frames stop warping and might be able to function normally again. Of course, this all depends on the extent of the damage and how advanced the settling was. Being able to catch the damage early on will increase your chances of saving the frames so that they don’t have to be replaced. 

When It Can’t Be Fixed 

Helical piers may successfully stabilize your home, but even after leveling everything, there’s no guarantee that the door and window frames will be functional. This is because, after long-term warping, the frames could be damaged to the point where they need to be replaced instead of repaired. Wood is flexible, but even a wooden frame cannot go back to its original shape after years of pressure due to settling. 

You can tell that the frame needs to be replaced when there are multiple cracks or gaps. The gaps are especially bad for window frames since they are an opportunity for rainwater to enter your home. You also might want to check to see if the hinges are loose; if the screws are damaged, the frame is most likely too warped for repair. Luckily, you may not need to replace the entire door, only the frame, so speak to an expert to see how much you can salvage.