How to Fix a Doorbell Cover

A doorbell cover has the important function of protecting the electrical contacts from the outside elements. Since the button apparatus is almost always located outdoors, it is important to inspect the doorbell cover periodically to see that the device is protecting the electrical contents properly. It is possible that you may not notice that the doorbell cover is damaged until the doorbell stops functioning properly. Both these possibilities are discussed in the following article.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver (handheld variety)
• Sandpaper
• Emery cloth
• Electric probe and tester
• Replacement cover (if necessary)
• Epoxy (commercial grade that comes in two separate tubes)
• Clear silicone caulk
• Caulk gun

How to Fix a Doorbell Cover

1. Pull the cover off. The doorbell cover likely will be held in place by two small screws that are inserted directly into the wooden door frame. No matter what the problem is with the outside portion of your doorbell, the first order of business will be to remove the cover and examine the workings of your doorbell, including the cover. If the cover is damaged or incorrectly installed, problems with the wiring may develop.

2. Examine the cover to see that it is solid and not leaking. A cracked cover can be repaired or replaced. To repair a damaged doorbell cover, clean it thoroughly with a small piece of sandpaper or emery cloth. Apply a thin line of epoxy on the inside of the cover. Be sure to use the kind that comes in two separate tubes and gets mixed on the spot. Mix a small amount of epoxy and apply it to the crack along the inside surface of the cover. Let the epoxy dry.

3. Apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the outside surface of the cover crack. This will act as a sealant and will add some binding power to the cover. You can smooth the silicone with your finger to make sure it covers the entire crack.

4. Before you put the cover back on, test the doorbell to see if it is properly working. If the doorbell is not functioning, you must deal with the electrical components. Otherwise you can proceed with the task of repairing the cover. A simple wire tester will let you know if there is an electrical current that makes it as far as the button apparatus.

5. Check the contact surface between the doorbell cover and the side of the building to make sure that the cover is creating a tight seal that effectively keeps out all moisture and dust. This could be another problem area.

6. Sand both the wood and the bottom of the doorbell cover to make sure both surfaces are smooth and clean.

7. Reattach the cover to the outdoor surface using the same screws. If you do not feel the screws bite when you tighten them down, replace the screws with a pair that is slightly longer.

8. Seal the place where the cover comes in contact with the building with silicone caulk. You also can put a dab of caulk on top of the head of the screws after they have been tightened against the face of the cover.

Tips & Warnings

• Certain parts of the country might be prone to problems caused by a very wet climate. The location of the doorbell on the building might have some bearing on how well the doorbell functions.
• It is a very good idea to check or even clean the electrical contacts while the cover is off and the electrical parts are exposed and visible.