Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors give homeowners sunlight and fresh, air. They also enhance the value of homes. However, over time, they could create issues that must be addressed quickly.
Understanding the way patio doors operate can help homeowners better communicate with a contractor about the issues they experience. Here are some of the most common problems with patio doors:
Rollers that are not aligned
Sometimes an outdoor sliding door can become stuck and it's not easy to get it open once more. Most of these sluggish sliding patio doors can be fixed with a bit of oiling and cleaning, unless a structural issue is present. Most often dirt in the lower track can cause the rollers and bottom track to be misaligned. In this case you'll need to wash the track and apply a light coating of lubricant, allowing the rollers glide easily.
The misalignment can also be caused by wear or damage to the hinges that connect the door panels that house some of these rollers; springs (whether extensions or torsion) and cables that lift the door. When damaged or worn these components can cause problems with roller alignment, causing resistance, as well as an increased weight of the door or energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections can help ensure that these components work in harmony to keep your patio door operating smoothly.
Install a crow's feet at one end. Use the trammingstick to move across the rollers. Take note of the distance each roller travels. Repeat the same process at the opposite end of the track, and then divide by two to get the rollers' alignment (Photo 1). This method is not as precise as using pi tapes to measure the diameter directly, but it's much quicker and simpler than measuring each individual rail with a level or carpenter's level.
You can also verify the alignment of the rollers by removing the head stop. It is an aluminum plate located at the bottom of your door jamb. It stops the rollers. This will require removing any removable grilles or shades and, if the door is heavy, you should seek help with this step. After removing patio door lock repairs near me , remove the head track adjustments screws by backing them with a screwdriver. After reinstalling your assembly, align each adjustment screw with its access hole, and tapping it with the Hammer.
Tracks that are dirty or damaged
Sliding patio doors can serve as magnets for dirt, debris and other outside elements. They can also be prone to misalignment and other issues that may require professional repair. To extend the life of your patio doors, it's important to identify and address these problems in the earliest time possible.
Dirty tracks are one of the most common causes of problems with sliding patio doors. Over time, dirt food debris, pet hair, and yard debris can get trapped in the tiny spaces of your sliding door track and cause the door to stick or become difficult to open. To avoid problems like this it is recommended to sweep and clean your patio door tracks once every month. After you've cleared all the debris that is loose then you can use a non-abrasive household cleaning solution or warm soapy water to clean down your patio door tracks. If you notice that certain areas of the track are difficult to clean, you can use the butter knife or toothbrush to clean these small spaces.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, you must keep them lubricated to prevent your sliding door from sticking or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, it is recommended to apply silicone spray to the bottom track on a frequent basis. You can also rub paraffin wax along the track to enhance the glide.
A draft or air leak can also affect your sliding patio doors. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is worn out or damaged. This can result in a gap between the frame and door which allows air come in and reduces energy efficiency. Make sure that your weatherstripping is in good condition and replace it if necessary.
Over time your patio door will experience normal wear. These issues are not usually a sign of an urgent issue. Small repairs can prolong the lifespan of your patio door. Contact a professional to address any problems as soon as they are apparent to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Glass that has cracked or warped
A damaged or cracked patio door is a serious eye-sore and could pose a security risk. This could also allow unwanted animals into your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. These issues are easy to fix when caught early.
A quick glance at the glass can help you determine what type of repairs are required. Cracks in glass are usually caused by impact or stress. These are more difficult to repair than surface chips. A professional may have to re-lead the panel. This will require removing the glass clean it, and replacing the broken pieces. To help match the new glass with the original, professionals require exact documentation of the way the piece looked at the time.
Sometimes, a crack in the glass can be filled with plastic epoxy. It can be bought from a hardware store or the home improvement section of many stores. A professional will use the soldering tool to melt the plastic and then apply it to the crack. Once the plastic has cooled down it is then removed by the professional any excess.
If the crack is small it might be possible to repair the glass using clear sealant. This kind of product can be purchased at any hardware store. It is essential to dry the crack completely prior to applying sealant. This will stop the repair from failing. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer or a different fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A weather stripping that's worn-out not only looks ugly and is a security risk however it also allows the outside air and heat out. A quick fix with a new piece of weather stripping can save you money while keeping your home more comfortable.
First, ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit or caulk sealant adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method), pliers, scissors, a utility knife, and some gloves or protective goggles. Then, remove the old weather stripping by cutting one end piece, then pulling it up, along with any attaching screws when applicable. Remove any remaining pieces using pliers and a prybar.
Start by measuring the gap around the door frame. The measurements can be used to determine the size of weather stripping you will require. Be sure to leave a bit of extra length to fine-tune the fit later. Once you have the right size, apply the backing of the adhesive and press it against the frame. If you wish you would like to use a small nail to secure the frame to the wall.
Finally, apply some wood filler to any holes or divots in the frame. Let the filler dry completely before applying paint. It is best to use oil-based paints however, latex can also be used.
Finally, be sure to clean your tracks and sliding doors regularly. By taking the time to do this can prevent the doors from sticking and other problems down the road. Making sure you are keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they are practical, attractive, and energy-efficient. When you do this you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence and save money in the process! Happy fixing your home!