How to Maintain and Repair Exterior Access Doors in Coastal Plumbing Systems  

In many coastal regions, the corrosive effects of saltwater can deteriorate the plumbing systems over time. To combat the massive damage, contractors, plumbers, and other relevant construction professionals often build plumbing systems in these areas with specialized materials and components that can withstand harsh conditions.   

One of the most significant components that play a critical role in the durability and functionality of a coastal plumbing system is the exterior access door. In this blog post, you’ll discover the importance of exterior doors in coastal areas and how to properly maintain and repair it to keep or boost the value of your client’s water pipe facilities.  

What is an exterior access door?  

Exterior access doors can grant access to the interior of a building from outside. In the context of plumbing systems, exterior access doors are typically installed outside the establishment to provide easy access to the plumbing system.   

You can often locate these doors near the main water shut-off valve, pipes, or other plumbing system components. Exterior access doors like Babcock-Davis coastal zone exterior access door may come in various sizes and materials, depending on the particular prerequisites of the plumbing system and the property itself.   

Moreover, experts designed them to be durable and weather-resistant to stand firm against the intense weather conditions in coastal areas, where the doors are vulnerable to saltwater, wind, and other environmental factors.  

Four crucial benefits of exterior access doors to coastal plumbing systems are:   

• Inspection and maintenance: Exterior access doors authorize plumbers and maintenance personnel to inspect and perform plumbing system maintenance without entering the client’s structure. Regular upkeeping is especially vital in coastal areas where the saltwater can cause damage to the plumbing system in the long run, requiring periodic maintenance and inspection.  
• Emergency access: In a plumbing emergency, like a pipe bursting or any significant leakage, exterior access doors give emergency responders quick access to your client’s central water system, allowing them to shut off the water supply and control further damage.  
• Corrosion prevention: Exterior access doors can also help deter corrosion by furnishing a barrier between the plumbing system and the corrosive saltwater environment.  
• Compliance with building codes: Installing exterior access doors for your plumbing system can help you comply with building codes. Part of these is the commercial establishments built around the coastal areas to ensure safety and maintenance standards compliance. 

How to properly maintain or repair the exterior access doors in coastal plumbing areas?  

Appropriate maintenance and repair of exterior access doors in coastal plumbing systems are crucial to guarantee the functionality and longevity of the coastal building’s plumbing system. Here are some tips to correctly maintain and repair the exterior access doors for your plumbing project:  

• Tip #1 Regular Inspection: Advice your clients to make it a habit to inspect the exterior access doors, so they can secure that essential facilities are always in good performance condition. When checking, look for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, corrosion, or damage to the door or surrounding area. Ensure the door closes and seals adequately to prevent water from penetrating the plumbing system.
• Tip #2 Cleaning: Routine cleaning of exterior access doors is critical in coastal areas. The door isn’t safe from accumulating salt water and other debris, which can eventually lead to corrosion or further deterioration. Clean the door regularly with mild detergent and water to remove residue or buildup.

• Tip #3 Lubrication: Lubricate the hinges and locks of the exterior access door frequently to guarantee smooth operation. You must use a silicone-based lubricant to discourage corrosion and rust from building up.  
• Tip #4 Repair or Replace Damaged Doors: If any wear, tear, leakage, or other damages are found during the inspection, repair or replace the damaged door immediately. Delaying repairs can lead to more severe impairments and expensive restorations. 
• Tip #5 Upgrade to Corrosion-Resistant Doors: Consider increasing the quality of your project’s door to corrosion-resistant exterior access doors. These doors are made to defy extreme conditions in coastal areas and are less likely to corrode or rust in long-term use.  

Take better of your exterior access doors and coastal plumbing system.  

Regularly inspecting, cleaning, and lubricating exterior access doors, repairing or replacing damaged doors, and upgrading to corrosion-resistant doors can significantly contribute to always keeping the components performance of coastal plumbing systems intact. Remember to follow the tips we shared, so you can ensure that the exterior access doors in the plumbing system of your coastal projects are well-maintained and operating as intended.