Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors offer homeowners natural fresh air and light and can increase a home's value. However, over time, they could create issues that must be addressed quickly.

Understanding the way patio doors operate can help homeowners communicate with a contractor about the issues they experience. Here are a few of the most frequent problems with patio doors:

Rollers that are not aligned

It's sometimes difficult to open a sliding patio door. But, unless there's an underlying structural problem, most such uncooperative doors can be easily fixed by a bit of cleaning and lubrication. The most frequent cause is dirt in the lower track, which can cause the rollers to rub against the bottom track and cause them to become misaligned. In this situation, clean the track thoroughly and apply a thin layer of lubricant so that the rollers are able to glide smoothly.

It can also be caused by wear or damage to the hinges connecting the doors that house a portion of these rollers, springs (whether extensions or torsion) and cables that lift the door. When they are damaged or worn out, could alter the alignment of rollers and cause resistance, as well as other issues, like doors that feel heavier or higher energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections will ensure that these parts are working together to keep your patio doors operating smoothly.

Set up a crow’s foot at one end, and use the trammingstick to move across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the same process at the opposite end of the track, tilt and slide patio door repairs then divide by two to get the alignment of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as exact as using pi tape to measure the length directly. However, it's faster and easier than using a carpenter's level to measure the length of each rail.

Another method of checking the alignment of rollers is to take off the head stop, which is a flat plate that is located on the door jamb at the bottom of the frame, which stops the rollers. If the door is heavy, you may need help removing removable grilles and shades. After removing the head stop, remove the head track adjustments screws by backing them with a screwdriver. Then, reinstalling the assembly by aligning each roller adjustment screw to the hole that it is accessible through, and tapping it with the hammer.

Tracks that are damaged or dirty

Patio doors that slide are magnets for debris, dirt and other elements from outside. They also are susceptible to misalignment and other issues that require professional repair patio door lock. To extend the life of your patio doors, it's important to identify and address these problems as soon as possible.

One of the main causes for sliding patio doors to malfunction is filthy tracks. Over time dirt and other particles like pet hair, food crumbs and yard debris, can be trapped in the small spaces between your sliding door tracks, causing it to become stuck or difficult to open. To avoid problems like this it is recommended to vacuum and clean your patio door tracks at least once each month. Once you've removed all 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 these tiny areas.

It is also important to grease the tracks regularly to avoid your sliding door becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest adding silicone spray to your bottom track on a regular basis. You can also rub paraffin wax on the track to improve glide.

Another common issue that can impact your sliding patio door is a air leak or draft. This can happen when the weather stripping of your sliding patio door has worn away or is damaged. This can cause a gap between the frame and door that allows air to enter and reduce the efficiency of energy. Make sure your weatherstripping is in good order and replace it if needed.

With regular use your patio door will go through normal wear and wear and tear over time. These problems are usually not indicative of a major issue. In most cases, small repairs can help extend the lifespan of your patio door and ensure it is running smoothly. Contact a professional to address any issues as soon as they appear to save on costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is cracked or warped

A warped or cracked patio door can be a major eyesore and a potential security risk. It could also allow in unwanted animals and cause your home temperature fluctuate wildly. These issues are easy to fix if caught early.

A quick glance at the glass will aid in determining what kind of repairs are required. Cracks in glass are usually caused by stress or impact. These are a little more difficult to fix than simple chipping on the surface. A professional will probably require re-leading the panel. This would require removing the glass, cleaning and replacing any broken pieces. To make sure that the new glass with the old, a professional needs precise documentation of the way the piece looked at the time.

Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. You can purchase this at a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will typically use the soldering iron to melt the plastic, then apply it to the crack in the glass. After the plastic has cooled and the professional has removed any excess.

If the crack in the glass is not too large, there could be a chance to repair it with clear sealant. You can purchase this kind of sealant at any hardware store. However, it is important to thoroughly dry the damaged area before applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or any other fan can be used to expedite this procedure.

Weatherstripping that is damaged

A weather stripping that is worn out is not just unsightly and a security risk but it also allows outside air to enter and cold or hot air escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping inside your home.

Ensure you have the right tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit, or caulk sealant adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method), 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 applicable. Then take care to take any remaining pieces over with pliers or a pry bar.

Begin by measuring the space around the door frame. Use the measurements to determine what size weather stripping you need. Be sure to leave an extra length for later fine-tuning. Once you've found the perfect size, place the backing and press it against the frame. If you want you want to, use a nail to secure the frame in place.

Finally, apply some wood filler to any divots or holes in the frame. Let the filler dry completely before painting. Ideally, it's best to apply oil-based paint on the filler, however latex paint is also a good choice.

Last but not least, make sure you clean your sliding patio door repairs near me tracks and doors frequently. This will help prevent future issues such as sticking. Maintaining and repairing your patio doors will ensure they remain functional, attractive and energy-efficient. You will save money while enjoying the great outdoors while doing so. Happy fixing your home!