Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors give homeowners light and fresh air and can increase a home's value. But with time, they may create issues that must be addressed swiftly.
Understanding how patio doors work can help homeowners communicate with contractors about the issues they face. Here are some common patio door repairs:.
Rollers that are not aligned
Sometimes, a sliding patio door will get stuck and it's not easy to get the thing to open once more. But it's not a sign of a structural issue, most doors that aren't cooperating could be repaired with a little cleaning and lubrication. Most often, dirt in the lower track can cause the rollers and bottom track to be misaligned. In this case clean the track thoroughly and apply an even layer of lubricant so that the rollers are able to glide easily.
The misalignment could also be because of wear or damage in the hinges that join the doors that house some of the rollers, springs either torsion or extension and cables, which lift the door. If damaged or worn out, these components can affect the alignment of the rollers, causing resistance, as well as the door being heavier or having higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and regular professional inspections can help ensure that all these elements work harmoniously to keep your patio door operating smoothly.
Create a crow's foot 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 divide by two to find the rollers' alignment (Photo 1). This method isn't as precise as using a pi tape to measure diameter directly. However, it's quicker and less cumbersome than using a carpenter's or level to determine the rail's diameter.
Another option to check roller alignment is to remove the head stop, which is a flat plate that is located on the jamb of the door at the bottom of the frame that blocks the rollers. This requires the removal of any grilles or shades that can be removed, and in the event that the door is heavy, you should seek assistance in this process. After the head stop has been removed, remove the head track adjustment screws by pushing them out using a screwdriver, then reinstall the assembly by aligning each roller adjustment screw with the access hole for it and tapping it in using the hammer.
Dirty or damaged tracks
Sliding patio doors can act as magnets for dirt, debris and other elements outside. They can also be susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues that require professional repair. To extend the life of your patio door finding and fixing these issues in the early stages is crucial.
Dirty tracks are one of the most frequent causes of problems with sliding patio doors. Over time, dirt food particles, pet hair and yard debris can become trapped within the narrow spaces of your sliding door track and cause the door to stick or become difficult to open. It is recommended that you clean and vacuum your tracks of your patio door every month at a minimum to avoid problems. You can clean your patio door tracks using an anti-abrasive cleaning solution or with warm soapy tap water once you've removed any debris that is floating around. If you notice that some parts of the track are harder to clean, you can try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean out these small areas.
It is also important to grease the tracks on a regular basis to prevent your sliding door becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest applying silicone spray to the bottom track on a regular basis. You can also apply paraffin wax to improve the glide.
Another common issue that can impact your sliding patio door is a draft or air leak. This could happen if the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has worn away or has been damaged. This can cause an opening between your sliding patio door and the frame. This lets air in and reduces the energy efficiency. Make sure your weatherstripping is in good shape and replace it when needed.
With regular use, your patio door will go through normal wear and tear over time. These issues are not usually a sign of an urgent problem. In most cases, small repairs can help extend the life of your patio door and ensure it is operating properly. Contact a professional to address any issues as soon as they are apparent to prevent costly repairs in the future.
Glass that has cracked 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 into your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. These issues are simple to fix if they are detected early.
First, a quick glance at the glass can determine the type of repair is required. Generally, cracks in the glass are caused by stress or impact. These are more difficult to repair than surface chips. A professional will likely have to re-lead the panel. This will require removing the glass and cleaning it, as well as replacing the broken pieces. To ensure that patio door glass replacement cost with the original, professionals require accurate documentation of the way the piece looked at the time.
Plastic epoxy can be used to fill a crack. This can be purchased from hardware stores or in the home improvement section in many stores. A professional will employ the soldering tool to melt the plastic and then apply it on the crack. Once the plastic has cooled it is then removed by the professional any excess.
If the glass crack is not too large, there could be a chance of repairing it with clear sealant. You can purchase this type of product from any hardware store. It is important to dry the crack completely prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or any other fan can be used to expedite this process.
Weatherstripping damaged
A weather stripping that is worn out is not just ugly and can pose a security risk it also lets outside air in and heat to escape. A simple fix with a new piece of weather stripping could save you money while keeping your home more comfortable.
First, ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials. You'll require a replacement weather-stripping kit or adhesive/caulk sealing agents (depending on the repair method you decide to use) as well as pliers and 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 lifting it up with any attaching screws when applicable. Remove any remaining pieces with pliers and a prybar.
If you decide to replace the weather stripping, start by measuring the distance around the door frame. Make use of the measurements to determine the size of weather stripping you require. Be sure to leave a bit of extra length to fine-tune the fit later. Once you've got the right size, apply the backing and press the material against the frame. If you wish you want to, use a nail to tack the frame to the wall.
Apply wood filler onto the frame to cover any divots or holes. Allow the filler to dry completely prior to applying any paint. It is recommended to apply oil-based paint on the filler, however latex paint will work too.
The last thing to do is take care to clean your sliding door tracks and doors frequently. By taking the time to do this will prevent sticking and other issues in the future. Keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors ensures they are practical, attractive and energy efficient. When you do this, you can enjoy the great outdoors with confidence, and save money at the same time! Enjoy your home improvements!