Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors provide homeowners with natural light and fresh air and can boost the value of a home. However, over time they can develop issues that require immediate attention.
Understanding how patio doors work can help homeowners communicate more effectively with contractors about problems they encounter. Here are some of the most common repairs to patio doors:.
Rollers that aren't aligned properly
It's sometimes difficult to open a patio sliding door. Most of these uncooperative sliding patio doors can be repaired easily with some cleaning and oiling in the event that a structural issue is present. The majority of the time dirt in the lower track can cause the bottom track and rollers to become misaligned. In this instance you'll need to wash the track and apply a thin coat of lubricant so that the rollers move easily.
It can also be caused by damage or wear to the hinges connecting the doors that house a portion of these rollers; springs (whether extensions or torsion) as well as cables that lift the door. When damaged or worn, these components can affect roller alignment, causing resistance and other problems such as a heavier door or higher energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections will ensure that these components are in sync to keep your patio doors functioning smoothly.
To verify the alignment between rollers, set up an eagle's foot at one end of the track. Then employ a tramming tool to sweep across both rollers, observing the distance they travel. Repeat the process at the other end of the track and divide by two to find the alignment of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as precise as using pi tapes to measure diameter directly, but it's more efficient and less time-consuming than measuring each individual rail using a level or carpenter's level.
Another method of checking the alignment of the rollers is to remove the head stop, a flat plate in the door jamb at the bottom of the frame that blocks the rollers. This requires the removal of any grilles or shades that are removable, and in the event that the door is heavy, obtaining help with this step. After removing the head stop, take out the head track adjustment screws by backing them up with the screwdriver. After reinstalling the assembly, align each screw for adjustment to its access hole, and tapping it with the hammer.
Dirty tracks or damaged tracks
Patio doors that slide can act as magnets for debris, dirt and other outside elements. They are also prone to misalignment, as well as other issues which may require professional assistance to fix. To prolong the life of your patio doors, it is essential to find and fix these issues as soon as you can.
One of the most common reasons for sliding patio doors to fail is filthy tracks. Over time dirt and other debris like food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris, can be trapped in the small spaces between the tracks of your sliding doors and cause it to become stuck or difficult to open. It is recommended that you clean and vacuum the patio door tracks at least once a month to avoid these 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 loose debris. 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 these tiny areas.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, it is recommended to lubricate them regularly to prevent sliding doors from squeezing or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest applying silicone spray to the bottom track regularly. sliding patio door repair near me can also rub paraffin wax along the track to improve the glide.
A draft or a leak of air can also affect your sliding patio doors. This can happen when the weather stripping of your sliding patio door is worn or is damaged. This can cause an opening between the frame and door, which allows air to be able to enter and decrease energy efficiency. Make sure that your weatherstripping is in good shape and replace it if necessary.
Over time, your patio door may see normal wear and tear. These issues are not usually a sign of an urgent problem. In most cases, minor repairs can extend the lifespan of your patio door and ensure that it is running smoothly. Contact a professional as soon when you notice any issues to avoid costly repairs.
Glass that is damaged or warped
A patio door that's damaged or cracked could be a major eye-sore and can pose security risks. This can also allow unwanted animals to enter your home and cause the temperature to fluctuate. These problems are easy to fix if discovered early.
A quick glance at the glass will determine the type of repair is required. Usually, cracks in glass are the result of stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than chips that are on the surface. A professional will probably need to replace the lead on this panel. This will require removing the glass and cleaning it, as well as replacing broken pieces. To do this, professionals will require accurate documentation of the piece in its original form to aid in comparing the new glass with the old.
Sometimes, a crack in the glass can be filled with epoxy made of plastic. This can be purchased from a hardware store or the home improvement section of a lot of stores. A professional will use an soldering tool to melt the plastic then apply it on the crack. After it has been cool, the professional can wipe away any excess.
If the crack isn't too large it might be possible to repair the glass using clear sealant. You can buy this type of product from any hardware store. It is essential to thoroughly dry the cracked area prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer or other fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A damaged weather stripping is not only unsightly and a security risk but it also allows outside air to seep in and cold or hot air escape. A simple fix with a new piece of weather stripping will save you money and make your home more comfortable.
First, make sure you have all the tools and supplies. You'll require a replacement weather-stripping kit or adhesive or caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you select) tools, pliers and a pair of scissors, a utility blade and gloves or goggles that are protective and a replacement weather-stripping kit. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting through one end piece and pulling it up along with any screws for attachment when applicable. Remove any remaining pieces using the pliers and a prybar.
If you decide to replace the weather stripping, begin by measuring the gap around your door frame. You can use the measurements to determine the length of weather stripping that you require. Be sure to leave a little extra length so that you can refine the fit later. Once you have the correct size you can apply the backing with adhesive and press it against the frame. If you want, secure it to the frame using small nails or hammers.
Apply wood filler to the frame to cover any holes or divots. Allow the filler to dry completely before applying paint. It is recommended to use oil-based paint, however, latex paint can also be used.
Finally, be sure to clean your tracks and sliding doors regularly. By taking the time to do this prevents sticking and other issues in the future. Making sure you are keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they stay practical, attractive, and energy-efficient. If you do this you will be able to enjoy the great outdoors with confidence and save money at the same time! Happy home-fixing!