How to Repair Rotted Door Frame and Trim on Exterior Door

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Subscribe to my channel: bit.ly/SubscribeToTheFixer Thanks for watching! 😃

[@KrustyKlown]

Make that rotted wood cut about 2X higher .. I've done this many times, what I learned is that rot infects the wood and goes up much garther than you would think, and it will continue to rot the wood.. It's really best to replace the WHOLE piece of wood, if not possible cut as high as possibe.

[@grizzlygrizzle]

Generally a good, conscientious repair. Aside from the backwards scarf joint, I'd add the following: I would have scribed the threshold angle onto the repair piece, rather than using a sliding T-bevel, because it catches the irregularities better. A scriber costs about $2, and there's a little more technique involved in using it, but gives a truer outline. Also, in preparing for the application of the bondo on the other side of the door, I would have used some Minwax Wood Hardener on the edges of the rotted section that you removed. It's made for preparation for their version of wood bondo. It really does work, even though the fumes are nasty. It seals and strengthens the fibers in that peripheral zone of rot that's not crumbly enough to be easily removed. Also, some masking tape on the threshold would make for a neater job, to be removed as soon as the troweling is done. -- Get yourself some real sandpaper. Using your discs for hand sanding is a waste of money. I recommend Norton ProSand 3X 80 grit. It's harder to find than 3M, but it doesn't clog as fast and lasts longer. I spent years restoring 100-year-old mahogany entryways on high-end Boston apartment buildings, and it involved A LOT of sanding, and I wouldn't use any 3M products. In a pinch, there's Gator brand and some Scandinavian brand that are OK, too but the Norton ProSand was the best. For anything getting painted other than furniture, 80# is fine enough (well, maybe not for joint compound). Those entryways were varnished (Sikkens Cetol marine varnish), and the results, after 80# sanding, were fine enough to cause people's jaws to drop. (Well, at about $10K per job, they should come out nice). And for sanding in grooves, cut an old credit card lengthwise about 7/8" wide, and wrap 1/16 of a sheet of sandpaper around it. For concave contours, use some milk-jug plastic wrapped with 1/16 sheet and roll it. I tried several electric detail sanders, and they were a waste of time. With the right sandpaper, the hand sanding was far more productive. (For anyone varnishing oily woods like teak or mahogany, it's important to wash it with acetone just before applying the varnish. To omit this step is to have a painful learning experience.) -- And one general point: for shimming precisely, I vastly prefer white cedar shingles to the "shims" sold at the big box stores. In some areas they're hard to get, but their taper is much finer than the "shims," and with proper stacking and angling, they can provide dead-balls shimming outcomes. One bundle of white cedars will last for a decade or more of shimming.

[@kathyb2562]

I think I'd paint a whisper thin coat of sealer on that 45°degree angle to prevent damage from any sneaky water.💧🤗

[@billzlotopolski4884]

One thing you should never do is to push a piece of material through a table saw, between the fence and the blade, with your hand. Instead you should use a push stick in order to avoid any injuries. Just a safety precaution.

[@leilanijanski8664]

Your mistakes are better than some seasoned contractors finished products. You always take the time to explain every detail & I treasure your videos.

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks for watching!

[@aaronq2627]

I was about to change the channel, until I read your comment! Glad I watched the whole video now. Not all construction workers are this honest, rear breed.

[@FindingCartman]

That's the truth!

[@healerscreek]

We don't call them mistakes. We call them learning opportunities! 😊

[@layin3troy]

Chilles enjoy your blow up dolls and leave the ignorant post to yourself

[@skj158]

I prefer Bob Ross "happy accidents"

[@rikeralpha100]

You must have lots of learning opportunities 😊

[@gotaigo]

You’re a good man for confessing to your mistake; it gives people confidence that you’re doing an honest job and not cutting corners. Excuse the pun.

[@phouliscostantinou1767]

He is Not a politician🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@gotaigo]

@@phouliscostantinou1767 doesn’t only apply to politicians Einstein.

[@RawConceptsFilms]

What makes this video so awesome is that it is thorough. You end up watching it from beginning to end without being distracted or having a case of "short attention span." Great video. Educational.

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks!! 😃

[@Blazn9k]

Thank you for telling us your mistake instead of hiding it.

[@jwbr2]

The mistake you made, I saw it instantly. You was honest about it, that is what I like. Everyone makes mistakes, it is good to show it! Great job done anyway. Greetings from Holland.

[@nancywilliams7833]

The fact that you used composite trim should eliminate the worry of any problems caused by the wrong direction of the scarf cut. You did a wonderful job and your inlaws should be thrilled with the results. Thank you for the video.

[@davidgagnon2849]

Your comment won't nullify the fact that gravity still makes water run downhill.

[@garyfrench6350]

Your honesty goes a long way with me. Another great video. Love the outtakes 😅

[@teresab6383]

I love that you showed us your mistake. But I have a door with the same rot. So now I know what not to do😂💙

[@SuperSintia007]

This is a lifesaver for homeowners dealing with exterior door issues. The detailed step-by-step instructions and clear demonstrations helped me tackle a problem I had been putting off for too long. Thanks to this video, my door frame looks as good as new.

[@anthonyoltmann3721]

Additional tip: If you're not going to glue the joint, use silicone caulking on the cut edges of wood, this will seal the wood. This is especially important if you are using wood on the frame instead of PVC. Don't forget to seal the bottom edge of the wood too...the part that comes into contact with the ground/threshold.

[@mattivirta]

silicone not used outside and not wood newer together, silicone have bug and termite magnet, and rotten fast outside, windows and doors etc, need seal outside used acryl seal not silicone.

[@larryschweitzer4904]

Silicone does not bond to raw wood. If you want to use silicone you have to paint or seal the wood in some way.

[@mattivirta]

@@larryschweitzer4904 and sislicone NOT used never outside house, all bug ant etc, eat silicone fast. outside used acryl not silicone, then have lot longtime seal at joint. same silicone not used raw metall rust fast if used. need paint before use interior parts silicone.

[@dubmob151]

@@mattivirta ants and termites eat silicone? Is that like a food source for them, or just it just that they can chew through it because they can to get to something else? Or do they actively seek out silicone like humans to gummy bears because they find it tasty? First I've heard about silicone being for indoor use only-

[@lolwtnick4362]

hahahaha. you know what silicone bonds to? other silicone. this is the dumbest comment I've read.

[@ivanwill]

“You got a bent shaft bro…” 😂😅😂 Nice work, thanks for sharing.

[@gijoyjoy]

I love the bloopers at the end. It's important to see that even the experienced can make mistakes.

[@Yoghurtlover96]

I don't know why I'm so in love with your videos because I'm a 27year old woman and I don't have any skills in the construction/carpenting department. I just love watching your videos because you explain it so anyone can understand! Hope you can keep on making them!

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks for watching! 😃

[@T.E.P..]

Yeahhhh man! 422k subs Thursday, June 22, 2023. LOVE watching the channel grow. Real life remodeling! And it's cool ya got someone to help capture the work for the vids. Also the pro tip of how the water will run down a joint is a great thought and good to know you are human. Apology accepted .... from us robots beep boop

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks for watching!

[@SeanBaker]

I'd accept that repair any day. I tell ya what. I'm too obsessed with the exterior condition of my house to let it get even 1/10th as bad as what was shown in this video. I'm so vigilant about exterior wood being properly coated with paint and caulk being correct, I'm outside a few times a year with a paint brush and a caulk gun. It's probably overkill, but I like to prevent issues from occurring rather than be reactive when it comes to my house. Time to drain the water heater!

[@mj-ls7qr8xp3n]

Sending you my address.... Lol -)

[@keithgeorge2541]

When I taught AutoCad years ago I always told the class two things, “I’m no smarter than you, I’ve just made more mistakes!” And also, “Nobody’s perfect. If we were perfect, we wouldn’t be here.”

[@davidhanrahan717]

I would hire you in a heartbeat. Very honest and professional!!

[@williamjeffrey1222]

Use Marine glue in the bevel cut . It won't leak and it also works on boat repair . Two part epoxy marine glue . The board will break before the sealed seam does .

[@SubtlyDisillusioned]

I absolutely love to see someone that knows they are not perfect.

[@billarenz2719]

Your attention to details is amazing, it shows in all your finished project's. Nicely done!!!

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thank you so much! 😃

[@Tbird-6]

Can you do a video about how you got into construction work, what kind of experience/training you received, and if you still do professional/paid construction work (and if not, why did you get out of it)? Really enjoy your content. You are more thorough and professional than any contractor I've hired or worked with. 🧐

[@TexianPa]

Maaan I am so glad you inserted that correction on the orientation of the joint. I was sitting there going what are you doing, lol Nice job, as usual!

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

I was almost not going to post the video because I was so annoyed that it slipped my mind.

[@KennelGirlBC]

I'm retired and do as much home repair as I can. What I mostly have to fix are botched DIY jobs done by previous owners so, believe me, I want to learn how to do things right. And I need to fix a badly rotted door frame. So I'm watching your video and wow. Can't believe how many times I have to stop watching while I process not just the actual job but another of the little things you do that show how experienced and capable you are. So many great tips and proper techniques! I'm learning as many little things as I am about the actual repair job. You are a wonderful teacher! Thank you very much. Oh, and obviously, I sub'd. : )

[@DigitalSwagg]

Thank you so much. My side entrance trim has this very issue and now I feel super confident I can do this myself thanks to you.

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks for watching and good luck with the project! 😃

[@Bluechip288]

I was researching a how too on this. It's the best 1 so far! The parts are well fitted and secured! I'm a 50 year machinist for my background and I still want to learn all I can.

[@Javainthebox]

Great great video! I was just about to start leaving my comment asking why you didn’t flip that angle cut when you popped on talking about it. What a GREAT teaching opportunity you had and you took it. So much respect and appreciation for the acknowledgment and using it to teach (while explaining we’re all human and make mistakes). This is another example of why I love your channel so much. 🙏🏼

[@jaco7675]

Yep, just subbed. I learned as much from the outtakes and mistakes as from the actual work.

[@midorihafu]

ditto!

[@jamessparkman1001]

Thank you for this. I have a door with the exact same issue and will use your video to help repair it.

[@Madskillsuniversity]

This was great!!! I bought a home that I am remodeling, and now there is a 16' long new gutter, but that was not the case 5 years ago, so I have to replace 2 entire corners of the back of the house. This gave me the ideas to get 'er done. Thank you very much! - Ron

[@stephanieray6587]

You're not going to believe how very needed this type of information is... new subscriber here. Thanks!

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks for subscribing! 😃

[@jennifermartinus4929]

Absolutely a fine job, Matt. Like the end too. 😎

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks! 😃

[@stevevaughan8155]

I caught that issue about the joint and wondered why you were doing it that way. Glad you caught it! Kudos to you sir!

[@johndaniels9957]

I wish I had seen this video before I patched the frame around my shop door. I'm saving this video for when I inevitably have to repair my mistakes. You have a new subscriber.

[@LIFNursery]

Same here! 😢😅😂

[@dazeemae6211]

Hey I love your mistake . I learn a lot by others mistakes it stays in my mind better. Great job

[@steventhury8366]

I was just in the process of telling you that you cur the scarf joint wrong, then you made the correction. Good on you. I've been in remodeling 25yrs, so I caught that right away. With you exposing your mistake, I think a much better chance of sticking in people's head.

[@donaldpainter956]

Admitted your mistake and showing how to fix it says you are professional

[@CR8VE]

Well showing how to fix it incorrectly does not make you a professional. You will be re-repairing that spot very soon.

[@neilleo9744]

​@CR8VE are you sure that professionals don't make mistakes? Just remember that we r all human beings.

[@kansascowboy5721]

I’m glad you pointed out your mistake because it shows your human and why you would have done it differently!! Good video as always 👍🏻💯🙏

[@cadizwilmo9687]

The guys I hired knew they made a mistake but they'll say the famous words.......Ooooohhh.....no one will even noticed it! Thanks for your honesty and education.

[@pachecolljk]

love that you show your mistakes as well; and how you would improve! as others have said, a "learning opportunity"

[@ryanomac27]

Thanks Matt... Always a good day when we get a new upload!

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks for the support!

[@philoyphilia]

Man, you did a great job. I love watching your videos so much that I rarely watch Netflix anymore.

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks!!

[@tmontero8492]

Really appreciate your realistic, make-do approach for tasks such as these where perfection is just not necessary. I don't plan on making repairs such as these, but I watched and enjoyed your entire video and will check out your other ones. Thanks!

[@jackdotzman2908]

Thanks for your honesty, you’re right the joint is upside down. Great idea. Thanks for taking the time to explain the fix. From Missouri

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks for watching!

[@nellayema2455]

I saw the goof as it was happening. Good on you for pointing out for those who didn't catch it.

[@Al-xk7wl]

Very well done! I like your template for cutting the 45° jamb, and body filler for the seams and the nail holes.

[@tcl5853]

Yippee!! So far you are the only person who knew enough about carpentry to make the proper 45 degree cut when replacing the jamb. I’m baffled by the KZbin carpentry experts who don’t understand even basic carpentry techniques. Water is the enemy and the only way to avoid water entering the repair is “ not “ to make a straight cut! I appreciate your professionalism!

[@tsetendorjee9040]

Thank you and we love your KZbin about your How to Repair Rotted Door Frame and Trim on Exterior Door!❤👍👍👍

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks! I appreciate the support!

[@user-vl8qj4nv7t]

My first time to see your videos I think you did a great job. What you called a mistake was a great learning example. You owned it, and you did a great job in fixing it, and you did a great job and explaining everything. Thank you.

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks, I appreciate it!

[@jewdd1989]

Thank you, your honesty and showing us the right way is refreshing! I watched your videos to install a screen door by myself although I did get help to lift while installing but your work makes a big difference for those who want to be self sufficient even with projects on the home. I had a different comment till I watched more and I have a question. I trust your opinion, I had a guy who installs metal siding argue with me about using pvc trim for around window and door frames. All of my trim was rotting. I tried painting with kilz and good exterior paint and within a month it’d immediately start peeling off. I’ve watched enough “how to’s” that I really wanted pvc because it can’t rot but this guy argued that pvc is “the worst” material because it expands and contracts too much it’s not worth using. I honestly don’t buy that, he ended up using wood again with it covered in metal sheeting essentially but what do you say to that. I’m sure it expands/contracts like most materials will but I think it’s a material that’ll last and is worth the extra expense long term

[@granmabern5283]

That’s really sweet that you admitted your mistake. Thankyou 😅I’ll be using your cool techniques to fix our doorframe!

[@ronaldhagadorn5512]

Nice to see someone trying to save! Instead of throwing money at it! This is the proper way to save the planet.

[@nereida116]

As always, professional, kind, and a great learning experience. Thank you!

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks for watching, I appreciate the support! 😃

[@roybatty2030]

Lovely work. Not sure I’d go to that level of perfectionism for the mother in law…

[@ronevans852]

I’m glad you showed that video. I’ve got the same problem for about eight or nine months I’ve been trying to find somebody to replace that,of course I can’t, find anybody. Great job on video. Thanks for sharing the mistakes.

[@wendydix5534]

With all that you did, Bondo etc. I don’t think your mistake will lead to anything bad LOL. Love your Videos❤

[@williamjeffrey1222]

I like the guide jig you made . That is what I call thinking outside the box . Great tutorial .

[@mettamorph4523]

"Where do you stop, anyways. Let's do one thing at a time." Wise words.❤

[@E4thward]

Just because you clarify your mistake you got a new subscriber.. thanks for the heads up. I have to do this project pretty soon and you just gave me more confidence. Thanks again

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thank you for that! Good luck with the project. I hope the video helps!

[@leewillers4621]

Thanks for the video Matt! Your bloopers are too funny! I wish my husband would watch your videos!😂

[@fernwood]

What a coincidence. I was going to do this on my garage door frame this week, and it just showed up in my feed. Great work, and thanks!

[@1crazypj]

I wondered about the cut angle but I'm a mechanic not carpenter so glad you clarified that it was wrong

[@Scott924m]

Nice job . The only thing I would suggest is wiping down the area to be painted to remove as much dirt as you can before painting paint doesn't stick well to dirt . nothing crazy just a damp cloth .

[@lynnew5619]

You are such a laugh. Great job. I bet your in-laws are delighted to have you as their son-in-law! I knew that unpainted but would bug you, lol😂

[@Joodster]

I was watching you talking nailing on that piece on the door trim and (inexperience newbie homeowner) was thinking NO! It could route the rain in! I'm glad you popped in and explained that it should have gone the other way.

[@Chillkayaker]

I learn WAY better when I see things like this. Your explanations are amazing. Thank you sir!

[@porceder]

Excellent job explaining process & reasoning for each step. When dealing with rotten wood as at time 21:00 it's also worth hardening the remaining wood around the rotten wood with Wood Hardner (Minwax) or Rotted Wood Hardner (Bondo) as it gives a more solid bond for repair materials & helps stop further rot in the compromised / softened wood.

[@pttp321]

You honesty and straightforward personality are refreshing. Thanks for the tip to cut at a 45 degree angle. Cheers💫

[@SandraSElam]

This is such an excellent video - thanks for posting it! We're going to do a similar repair after watching. Everything I've watched on your channel is so well-explained with great videography.

[@lawrencezareno4916]

I salute you sir,nobody is perfect,but you do your job nice,my first time to watch your video was when you repair near the window of your home who gets rot and now my 2nd time to watch your vlog,from the Philippines 🇵🇭

[@sme7725a]

Great job narrating stream of thoughts we should have when doing this ourselves. Ready to tackle this job!

[@QBRX]

I thought you were cutting it the wrong way immediately. But you did a great job...thanks!

[@steadyeddie7453]

I can appreciate your attention to detail. It showed in the finish product. A couple additions. *Don't use silicone outside. Insects eat it like candy. * Paint/seal the bottom edge of the brick molding before installing. Most rot starts there. * Or use PVC brick molding and never replace it again. Cheers

[@vickigreen2981]

Refreshing honesty! Great job!

[@JerryCannito]

Excellent job! You're a good teacher. Thanks for sharing the error. But I don't think it's a big deal. I love Bondo and glad to see you use it. I have the same door trim repair to do- so this was very helpful. Unfortunately, there is water damage under the door sill plate that will need repair. After seeing your video- I've gain more confidence in my approach to repair. Take care.

[@amalias8888]

Great job....I"ll always remember this now. Thanks for explaining. We learn from mistakes!

[@mongofan1]

"Besides, this is my in-laws' house ..." 😂

[@dloregon]

I was just getting ready to commet that you should be cutting the angle the other direction when you stopped and explained how you almost messed upl. Glad you caught it.

[@ktchpmn]

Even though you made that mistake, does the bondo you put over the seam offer any sort of protection against water from getting that seam?

[@Redrally]

I think adding the roof overhang and fresh drainage gutter does that more than the bondo

[@Rasmus3377]

Wow. Just found this channel. This guy is humble! Great work! Cheers from Sweden.

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

Thanks so much! 😃

[@dshey6802]

Your outtakes are so funny.

[@barkingshark6413]

Right when you were setting up that 45 degree, I was thinking you should be cutting it the opposite direction, then the video stops and you made the adjustments. Good job.

[@JOSEGARCIA-vl4pk]

When you are a professional anything is very sample thanks for sharing your knowledge God bless you.

[@DanielinLaTuna]

I love end cutter nipper pliers for dealing with problematic nails in old construction. Weren't designed for the job, but boy do they shine!

[@simonclarke2276]

What an utter joy to watch!! Really informative (I've got a similar job to do), but it is so good to watch someone who is very good at their work. Thank you!!

[@snoozieq4584]

Before you added in that bit of video stating that you screwed up, I was sitting here in front of my laptop screaming "You're doing it backwards!" 🤣🤣🤣🤣 I know you couldn't hear me and I feel stupid for screaming at my laptop, it didn't do anything wrong anyway. So, yeah, I caught your boo boo when you nailed on the guide for your cut. OCD can have that affect on me 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Love the bloopers and outtakes at the end! Thank you, Matt for the great video! Keep them coming!!!!

[@bryanhacke]

I also wondered about why you didnt flip the angle on the patched piece. And was amazed you stopped and explained it...good thing it was for the inlaws... If it had been me I would have had to go back and correct it. I only have clients, no inlaws...lol

[@TheSingingDoctor325]

Your honesty is refreshing.

[@lcook0825]

Nice job Matt. Great job.

[@Samoan_D]

Great that you added at the end how it really goes lol keeping it real is worth more then a SUB.. end job came out great ty.

[@capitanschetttino8745]

We have to think that in addition to fix the door you are planning and making a video production. I fix boats for living and I cant imagine myselft fixing those boats and producing a video at the same time, so the angle little mistake is not important at all. Good job my friend. Keep it up!

[@guylyons9079]

I noticed the goof and am thankful for your honesty! (I think I noticed it because it's just the kind of thing I would do... 🙂)

[@amalias8888]

Great job...really nice work you do. I am impressed. It all looks great...except for that hideous brown door.

[@scottrothe5947]

Nice job! As a retired individual I do like repairs. Instead of Bondo I use wood repair epoxy. Very similar! The epoxy works well as an adhesive between joints as well. Just another measure to keep water out. The one thing I have found superior to silicon caulk is Big Stretch made by Sascho. This stuff adheres and remains playable, stretch and flexible and never gets hard! In my humble opinion it is the BEST caulk on the market. It's not cheap though. Plus, I have always been able to pull the semi set up plug out of the tube end (unlike silicone tubes). I don't waste any of the tube!! So in that regard it lowers the lifetime cost! Otherwise you and I repair things in a very similar manner! Very nice job! Attention to details makes happy customers. Do it right or don't waste your time!!

[@Barracuda48082]

A new garage pre hung steel door did this by the end of first winter..this is a good tip.

[@buddahblack5581]

Yo you killed it🎉 I’ll send you the video when I’m done fixing my door frame . To see what you think .

[@TheRachelabomb]

Geez it seems like we jave the same home builder, LOL. This is the second time I found your solution to my problem fits like a cut in. Thanks for the helps!

[@Helmuesi911]

I don’t know if you know this but that paint you’re using is rated the best exterior paint by multiple consumer groups. I use Behr paint on all my jobs. Been in the business 28 years and I can promise you it beats all its competitors.

[@TheFixerHomeRepair]

I did not know that but that is great info! Thank you!

[@artifactartstudio107]

Thank you Fixer! I appreciate all your repairs! I learn so much from you. ❤

[@eloisarodriguez3970]

I appreciate your honesty and yes we're all human. It's also a lesson for us to learn so it's not repeated. Thank you.