Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors give homeowners sunlight and fresh air and enhance the value of a house. However, with time, they may create issues that must be addressed swiftly.

Understanding how patio doors work can help homeowners communicate more effectively with contractors about problems they face. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered problems with patio doors:

Rollers that aren't aligned properly

It's not always simple to open a sliding patio door. However, unless there's an underlying structural issue, most doors that aren't cooperating could be fixed by a bit of cleaning and lubrication. Most often, dirt in the lower track can cause the track's rollers and bottom track to be misaligned. In this case clean the track thoroughly before applying the lubricant in a thin layer so that the rollers can glide easily.

Misalignment can also occur because of wear or damage in the hinges that connect the door panels which house a portion of the rollers, springs, whether torsion or extension and cables that lift the door. When worn or damaged these components can cause problems with roller alignment, causing resistance, as well as the door being heavier or having higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections can help ensure that these components are in sync to keep your patio door functioning smoothly.

Install a crow's feet at one end, and use a trammingstick to sweep across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process at the other end of the track, and then divide by 2 to get a reading of the parallelism of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using pi tape to measure the length directly. However, it's faster and more efficient than using a carpenter's level to measure the length of each rail.

Another option to check the alignment of rollers is to take off the head stop, a flat plate in the door jamb at bottom of the frame that blocks the rollers. If the door is heavy you may require help in removal of the removable grilles and shades. After removing the head stop, remove the head track adjusters screws by backing them up with a screwdriver. After reinstalling your assembly by aligning each roller adjustment screw to its access hole, and tapping it with the Hammer.

Dirty or damaged tracks

A sliding patio door can serve as an attraction for dirt, debris and other elements. They are also prone to misalignment and other issues which may require professional repairs. To prolong the life of your patio door, finding and fixing these issues in the early stages is crucial.

Dirty tracks are one of the most common causes of malfunctions in sliding patio doors repairs patio doors. Over time, dirt food particles, pet hair and yard debris can get trapped within the narrow spaces of your sliding door track which can cause the door to stick or become difficult to open. To avoid this, it's recommended to clean and vacuum your patio door tracks once each month. You can clean your patio door tracks using a non-abrasive cleaning solution, or use warm soapy tap water after having removed any debris that is floating around. If you notice that certain areas of the track are difficult to clean, you can use a butter knife or toothbrush to scrub these tiny areas.

In addition to cleaning the tracks, you must lubricate them regularly to prevent your sliding door from becoming stuck or becoming difficult to open. If you own Panda patio doors it is recommended to apply silicone spray to the bottom track on a frequent basis. You can also apply paraffin wax to improve the glide.

A draft or a leak of air can also affect your sliding patio door repairs doors. This can happen when the weather stripping of your sliding patio door is worn or has been damaged. This could cause an opening between your sliding patio door lock repairs door and the frame. This allows air to enter and decreases the efficiency of energy. Check that your weather stripping is in good condition and replace it as necessary.

With regular use, your patio door will show normal wear and wear and tear with time. These problems are usually not a sign of an urgent problem. In most cases, minor repairs can help extend the lifespan of your patio door and ensure it is functioning properly. Get a professional in touch to fix any issues as soon they appear to save on costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is warped or cracked

A cracked or warped patio door is a serious eyesore and a potential security risk. It also allows in unwanted critters and make your home's temperature fluctuate dramatically. Fortunately, these issues are usually fixable when they are caught early.

First, a quick glance at the glass can determine the type of repair is required. Generally, cracks in glass are due to stress or impact. These are more difficult to repair than chips that are on the surface. A professional may need to replace the lead on this panel. This will require removing the glass and replacing any broken pieces. To help match the new glass to the old one, professionals require exact documentation of how the piece looked at the time.

Sometimes cracks in glass can be filled with plastic epoxy. This can be purchased from a hardware store or the home improvement section of a lot of stores. A professional will usually use an iron soldering to melt the plastic, then apply it to the crack in the glass. Once the plastic has cooled, the professional can remove any excess.

If the crack in the glass is small, there may be a chance to repair it with clear sealant. You can purchase this type of product from any hardware store. It is essential to dry the crack thoroughly prior to applying sealant. This will prevent the repair from failing. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer or another fan.

Weatherstripping damaged

A damaged weather stripping is not just unsightly and a security hazard, but it also allows outside air to get in and heat or cold to escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping inside your home.

First, ensure that you have all the tools and supplies. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit or caulk sealant adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method) and scissors, pliers, utility knife, and a pair of gloves or goggles that are protective. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting through an end piece, and then pulling it back up with any screws attached if appropriate. Then take any remaining pieces over with pliers or a pry bar.

If you decide to replace the weather stripping, begin by measuring the gap that is around the door frame. Make use of the measurements to determine the size of weather stripping you require. Make sure you leave extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you have the right size you can apply the adhesive backing and press it against the frame. If you wish you would like to use a small nail to tack the frame to the wall.

Apply wood filler onto the frame to cover any divots or holes. Let the filler dry completely before applying paint. It is recommended to use oil-based paints, however, latex paint can also be used.

Last but not least, make sure you clean your sliding tracks and doors frequently. By taking the time to do this can prevent the doors from sticking and other problems down the road. Maintaining and repairing your patio doors will ensure that they remain attractive, functional and energy-efficient. You'll save money while enjoying the outdoors while doing so. Happy fixing your home!