Wood is a natural product and is a hygroscopic material. This means that wood, in conditions of high humidity, readily absorbs water vapor from the air and in low humidity, vice versa.

“Subsequent dimensional change in wood is and always has been an inherent natural property of wood… These changes cannot be the responsibility of the manufacturer or products made from it.”

“Responsibility for dimensional change problems in wood products resulting from improper relative humidity exposure during site storage and installation rests with the contractor.”

Architectural Woodwork Institute
Arlington, Virginia

Square One Building Products only supplies doors in a bare wood or primed state and does not offer a finished product from the factory. Thus we cannot warrant the performance of any finish or finish material applied by others. It is important that you consult your finish supplier and follow their instructions. We offer the following recommendations as a guide.

Handling and Installation

  • Immediately after receipt of your order, inspect each door for any damage or defects. NOTIFY YOUR DEALER PROMPTLY OF ANY PROBLEM.
  • Handle all doors with clean gloves and equipment. Damage caused by handling is not considered a factory defect and is not covered under your warranty.
  • When moving the doors, avoid dragging the doors across one another or against another surface. Always use two people to lift and move the doors. Avoid leaning the door – they must be stored flat.
  • Keep the doors covered to maintain cleanliness but remember to allow air circulation.
  • THE DOORS SHOULD NOT BE SUBJECT TO ABNORMAL OR EXTREME CHANGES IN TEMPERATURE OR HUMIDITY LEVELS. Avoid sudden temperature changes, such as forced heat to dry out the building or storage in a building before it is enclosed.
  • Deliver the doors to the building only after plaster and concrete is dry.
  • Allow doors at least 48 hours to adjust to the prevailing humidity (become acclimatized) before hanging. Do not expose doors to humidity levels higher than 65%RH, lower than 30%RH, to temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit or to direct sunlight.
  • Hang doors with adequate clearance to allow for some swelling in damp weather.
  • Be sure all jambs and stops are set perfectly square and plumb.
  • The width of the door may be trimmed no more than 1/4” on either side. The height may be trimmed 2” from the bottom rail.
  • Wood panels “float.” Use a hammer and wooden block to adjust the panels if necessary before installation. Be careful not to damage the surface of the wood.
  • Use 3 hinges on doors of 7’ in height or less. Use 4 hinges on doors over 7’ in height.