Patio Doors Repairs Tips From The Best In The Business

Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors provide homeowners with sunlight and fresh, air. They also enhance the value of a house. In time, however they can develop issues that require immediate attention.

Understanding how patio doors operate can help homeowners communicate better with contractors about issues they encounter. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered problems with patio doors:

Rollers that aren't aligned properly

Sometimes the sliding patio door can become stuck and it's not easy to get it to open once more. Most of these non-cooperative sliding patio doors can be fixed easily by a little oiling and cleaning, unless a structural problem is present. The most common culprit is dirt in the lower track, which may cause the rollers to be pushed against the track below and cause them to be misaligned. In this case clean the track thoroughly and apply an even layer of lubricant to allow the rollers to glide smoothly.

It can 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); and cables which lift the door. When they are damaged or worn out, could cause roller alignment issues and cause resistance, as well as other problems, such as a heavier feeling door or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections can ensure that all the components work in harmony to ensure that your patio door is operating smoothly.

Set up a crow’s foot at one end. Use a trammingstick to sweep across the rollers. Take note of the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process at the other end of the track and divide by two to determine the rollers' alignment (Photo 1). This method isn't as exact as using a pi tape to measure diameter directly. However, it's faster and more efficient than using a carpenter's or level to measure the length of each rail.

Another option for checking the alignment of the rollers 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 stops the rollers. If the door is very heavy, you may need help taking off the grilles and shades that are removable. After taking off the head stop, remove the head track adjustments screws by securing them with the screwdriver. After reinstalling the assembly and aligning each adjustment screw with its access hole, and tapping it with a hammer.

Dirty or damaged tracks

Patio doors that slide can serve as magnets for debris, dirt and other elements from outside. They also are susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues that require professional assistance to fix. To prolong the life of your patio doors, it's essential to find and fix these problems in the earliest time possible.

Dirty tracks are among the most common causes of sliding patio door malfunctions. Over time, dirt, food particles, pet hair and yard debris could get stuck in the small spaces of the track of your sliding door and cause the door to become stuck or become difficult to open. To avoid this it is recommended to sweep and clean your patio door tracks once per month. After you've removed all of the debris that has accumulated, you can use a non-abrasive household cleaning solution or warm soapy water to clean down your patio door tracks. If you notice that certain areas of the track are more difficult to clean, you can try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean out these tiny areas.

In addition to cleaning the tracks, it is recommended to keep them lubricated to prevent your sliding door from becoming stuck or becoming 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 along the track to increase the glide.

Air leaks or drafts can also affect your sliding patio doors. This can happen when the weather stripping of your sliding patio door has worn away or has been damaged. This could cause an opening between the door and frame, which allows air to enter and reduce the efficiency of energy. Make sure that your weather stripping is in good shape and replace it if required.

With consistent 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 the majority of cases, minor repairs can extend the lifespan of your patio door and keep it operating properly. Contact a professional to address any issues as soon as they appear to avoid costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is cracked or warped

A warped or cracked patio door is a serious visual ailment and a potential security risk. It also allows in unwanted creatures and cause your home's temperature change dramatically. These issues are simple to fix if they are discovered early.

A quick glance at the glass can help determine what kind of repair is required. Glass cracks are typically caused by stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than chips that are on the surface. A professional will probably need to re-lead the panel. This will require the removal of the glass, cleaning it, and replacing the broken pieces. For this reason, a professional will need accurate documentation of the glass as it was originally viewed to ensure that the new glass with the original.

Sometimes, a crack in the glass can be filled with epoxy plastic. This can be purchased from hardware stores or the home improvement section in many stores. A professional will typically use a soldering iron to melt the plastic then apply it to the cracks in the glass. After the plastic has cooled, the professional can remove any excess.

If the glass crack is small, there may be a chance of repairing it with clear sealant. You can buy this type of product at any hardware store. It is essential to thoroughly dry the cracked area before applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or another fan can be used to speed up this procedure.

Weatherstripping damaged

A weather stripping that is worn out not only looks ugly and is a security risk however it also allows outside air and heat out. 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 supplies. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit or adhesive/caulk sealant (depending on your chosen repair method) tools, pliers, scissors, a utility knife, as well as gloves or goggles that are protective. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting through an end piece, and then pulling it back up using any screws that are attached, if necessary. Then take care to remove any pieces still left over with pliers or a pry bar.

If you decide to replace the weather stripping, start by measuring the distance around the door frame. You can use these measurements to determine the size of weather stripping that you will require. Make sure to leave some extra length for later fine-tuning. Once you have the right size then apply the adhesive backing and press it against the frame. If desired you would like to use a small nail to tack the frame to the wall.

double glazed patio door repairs  onto the frame to cover any holes or divots. Allow the filler to dry completely before applying any paint. It is recommended to apply oil-based paint over the filler, but latex paint will work too.

The last thing to do is make sure you clean your sliding tracks and doors regularly. Taking the time to do this can prevent the doors from sticking and other problems in the future. Making sure you are keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors ensures they are functional, attractive and energy efficient. By doing so, you can enjoy the great outdoors with confidence and save money at the same time! Enjoy your home renovation projects!