Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors give homeowners natural light and fresh clean air. They also increase the value of a house. However, over time, they can develop issues that need to be addressed swiftly.
Understanding how patio doors operate can help homeowners communicate more effectively with contractors about issues they face. Here are some of the most common repairs to patio doors:.
Misaligned rollers
It's not always easy to open a sliding patio door. The majority of these uncooperative sliding patio doors can be repaired easily by a little oiling and cleaning, unless a structural issue is present. The most frequent cause is dirt on the lower track, which could cause the rollers to rub against the bottom track and cause them to become misaligned. In this case, clean the track thoroughly before applying an even layer of lubricant so that the rollers are able to glide easily.
Misalignment may be caused by damage or wear to the hinges that connect the door panels that house some of these rollers; springs (whether torsion or extensions) as well as cables that lift the door. When worn or damaged, these components can affect the alignment of the rollers, leading to resistance, as well as a heavier door or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and periodic professional inspections can ensure that these components work in harmony to keep your patio door functioning smoothly.
To verify the alignment between rollers, set up the crow's feet at one end of the track and employ a tramming tool to sweep across both rollers, noting the distance they travel. Repeat the process at the other end of track and divide by two to determine the rollers' alignment (Photo 1). This method is not as precise as using pi tapes to measure the diameter directly, but it's more efficient and less time-consuming than measuring each rail with a level, or carpenter's level.
You can also test the alignment of the rollers by taking off the head stop. It is an aluminum plate located at the bottom of your door jamb. It stops the rollers. If the door is very heavy, you may require assistance in taking off the grilles and shades that are removable. After removing the head stop remove the head track adjustments screws by backing them up with a screwdriver. Then, reinstalling the assembly by aligning each screw for adjustment to its access hole, and tapping it with a hammer.
Dirty or damaged tracks
Sliding patio doors can serve as magnets for dirt, debris and other outside elements. They can also be prone to misalignment, as well as other issues that may require professional repair. In order to extend the lifespan of your patio door the identification and resolution of these issues promptly is crucial.
Dirty tracks are among the most frequent causes of malfunctions in sliding patio doors. Over time, dirt, food particles, pet hair and yard debris could get trapped in the tiny spaces of your sliding door track which can cause the door to stick or become difficult to open. To avoid these issues, it's recommended to clean and vacuum your patio door tracks once per month. After you've removed all of the debris that has accumulated and dirt, you can use a non-abrasive home cleaning solution or warm soapy water to wipe down your patio door tracks. If you notice that some areas of the track are more difficult to clean, you can try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean out these small spaces.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, you should be sure to lubricate them frequently to avoid your sliding door from becoming stuck or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we recommend adding silicone spray to the bottom track on a regular basis. You can also apply paraffin wax along the track to enhance glide.
Air leaks or drafts can also impact your sliding patio doors. This could happen when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is worn out or damaged. This can cause a gap between your sliding patio door and the frame. This allows air to enter and decreases the efficiency of energy. Make sure that your weatherstripping is in good condition and replace it when needed.
Over time, your patio door may experience normal wear. These issues aren't usually a sign of an urgent problem. Minor repairs can extend the lifespan of your patio door. Contact patio door repairs to address any problems as soon as they are apparent to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is damaged or warped
A warped or cracked patio door is a serious eye-sore and could pose a security risk. It can also permit unwanted animals to enter your home and cause the temperature to fluctuate. Thankfully, these problems are usually fixable in the event that you spot them early.
First, a quick glance at the glass can help determine what type of repair is required. Cracks in glass are usually caused by stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than surface chips. A professional may require re-leading the panel. This will require the removal of the glass, cleaning it, and replacing the broken pieces. To do this, professionals will require accurate documentation of the piece as it was originally viewed to help match up the new glass with the original.
Sometimes cracks in the glass can be filled with epoxy made of plastic. You can purchase this at a hardware store, or in the home improvement section. A professional will usually use an iron soldering to melt the plastic then apply it to the crack in the glass. After it has been cooled, the professional will wipe away any excess.
If the crack is small it might be possible to repair the glass using clear sealant. You can buy this type of product at any hardware store. It is important to dry the crack thoroughly before applying sealant. This will stop the repair from failing. You can accelerate the process by using a hair dryer or another fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A weather stripping that's worn-out not only looks ugly and is a security risk, but also allows outside air in and heat to escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping in your home.
Ensure you have the right tools and materials. You'll need an additional weather-stripping kit, or adhesive/caulk sealing agents (depending on the repair method you select) tools, pliers and a pair of scissors, a utility blade as well as protective gloves or goggles, and a replacement weather-stripping kit. Then, remove the old weather stripping by cutting through the end piece and then pulling it up along with any screws for attachment when applicable. Then, gently remove any pieces still left over using pliers or a pry bar.
Start by measuring the gap around the door frame. You can use these measurements to determine the length of weather stripping that you will require. Make sure you leave a little extra length to refine the fit later. Once you have the right size then apply the backing of the adhesive and press it against the frame. If you wish, nail it to the frame using the nail or hammer.
Finally apply some wood filler to any divots or holes in the frame. Allow the filler to dry completely before applying any paint. Ideally, it's best to apply oil-based paint on the filler, but latex paint can also be used.
Also, ensure that you clean your tracks and sliding doors regularly. This will avoid future issues such as sticking. Maintaining and repairing your patio doors will ensure they remain functional, attractive and energy efficient. You can save money and enjoy the great outdoors while doing it. Happy fixing your home!