10 Unexpected Patio Doors Repairs Tips
Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors give homeowners light and fresh air, and they enhance the value of a house. But over time, they can develop issues that need to be addressed swiftly.
Understanding how patio doors function can help homeowners communicate with a contractor about the issues they experience. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered problems with patio doors:
Rollers that aren't aligned properly
It's sometimes difficult to open a sliding patio door. The majority of these non-cooperative sliding patio doors can be fixed easily with some cleaning and oiling in the event that a structural issue is present. The most common culprit is dirt in the lower track, which can cause the rollers to be pushed against the track below and cause them to become misaligned. In this situation, you'll need to clean the track and apply a thin coat of lubricant so that the rollers move easily.
The misalignment can be caused by wear or damage 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 cause problems with roller alignment, causing resistance and other problems such as a heavier door or higher energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and regular professional inspections can help ensure that these components are in sync to keep your patio door functioning smoothly.
To check roller-to-roller alignment to determine alignment, set up a crow's foot at one end of the track and use a tramming stick to sweep across both rollers, recording the distance that each travels. Repeat the same process at the opposite end of the track and divide by two to determine the rollers' alignment (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using a pi tape to measure the diameter directly. It is however, faster and less cumbersome than using a carpenter's level to measure the length of each rail.
You can also check the alignment of the rollers by removing the head stop. It is an elongated plate that is located at the bottom of your door jamb. It stops the rollers. If the door is heavy, you may require help in removal of the removable grilles and shades. After taking off the head stop, remove the head track adjustments screws by backing them with a screwdriver. After reinstalling your assembly by aligning each roller adjustment screw to the hole that it is accessible through, and tapping it with a hammer.
Dirty or damaged tracks
Sliding patio door can act as a magnet for dirt, debris and other 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 is important to identify and address these problems in the earliest time possible.
Dirty tracks are among the most common causes of sliding patio door malfunctions. Over time, dirt and other debris like pet hair, food crumbs and yard debris, can get trapped in the narrow spaces between the tracks of your sliding doors and cause it to get stuck or difficult to open. To avoid this it is recommended to sweep and clean your patio door tracks once per month. You can clean your patio door tracks with an anti-abrasive cleaning solution or warm soapy tap water after having removed any debris that is floating around. If you notice that certain parts of the track are more difficult to clean, try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean out these tiny spaces.
You should also lubricate the tracks on a regular basis to prevent your sliding door becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors it is recommended to add silicone spray to the bottom track on a regular basis. You can also rub paraffin wax on the track to increase the glide.
Another issue that could affect your sliding patio door is a draft or air leak. This can occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has damaged or worn out. This could cause a gap between the frame and door that allows air to be able to enter and decrease the efficiency of your energy. Check that your weather stripping is in good condition and replace it as needed.
Over time, your patio door may be subject to normal wear and tear. However these issues are usually not indicators of a major problem. In the majority of cases, minor repairs can help extend the lifespan of your patio door and ensure that it is running smoothly. Contact a professional to address any issues as soon they are apparent to prevent costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is cracked or warped
A damaged or cracked patio door is an visual ailment and a potential security risk. It can also let in unwanted animals and cause your home's temperature fluctuate dramatically. These issues are simple to fix when discovered early.
A quick glance at the glass will help determine what type of repair is needed. Cracks in glass are usually caused by stress or impact. These are more difficult to repair than chips that are on the surface. A professional may have to replace the lead on this panel. This will require removing the glass clean it, and replacing the broken pieces. To help match the new glass with the old one, a professional requires precise documentation of how the piece looked at the time.
Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. This can be purchased from a hardware store or the home improvement section of many stores. A professional will typically employ an iron soldering to melt the plastic, then apply it to the cracks in the glass. After it has been cool, the professional can remove any excess.
If the glass crack is small, there may be a possibility of repairing it using clear sealant. You can buy this type of product at any hardware retailer. It is crucial to dry the crack completely before applying sealant. This will stop the repair from failing. patio door repairs near me or any other fan can be used to expedite this procedure.
Weatherstripping that is damaged
A damaged weather stripping is not just unsightly and a security risk but it also allows air from outside to get in and cold or heat to escape. A simple fix with a new piece of weather stripping will save you money while keeping your home more comfortable.
Ensure you have the right tools and materials. This includes a new weather stripping kit or caulk sealant adhesive (depending on the repair method), pliers, scissors, a utility knife, as well as gloves or goggles that are protective. Remove the old weather stripping, by cutting through the end piece and pulling up with any screws attached, if appropriate. Remove any remaining pieces with pliers and a prybar.
If you decide to replace the weather stripping, begin by measuring the distance around your door frame. Make use of the measurements to determine what size weather stripping you require. Be sure to leave a bit of extra length to adjust the fit later. Once you have the right size you can apply the backing with adhesive and press it against the frame. If you want, secure it to the frame using a small nail or hammer.
Finally, apply some wood filler to any holes or divots in the frame. 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 is also a good choice.
Last but not least, clean your sliding door tracks and doors frequently. This will help prevent future issues such as sticking. Maintaining regular maintenance and repairs to your patio doors ensures they are functional, attractive, and energy-efficient. You will save money and enjoy the great outdoors while doing it. Enjoy your home improvement projects!