Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors give homeowners sunlight and fresh, air. They also boost the value of homes. However, over time, they could create issues that must be addressed swiftly.
Understanding how patio doors function can help homeowners better communicate with a contractor about the issues they face. Here are a few of the most common problems with patio doors:
Misaligned rollers
Sometimes the sliding patio door will get stuck and it's not easy to get the thing to open again. But, unless there's an underlying structural issue, most doors that aren't cooperating could be fixed with some cleaning and lubrication. The most frequent cause 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, you'll need to clean the track and apply a thin coat of lubricant so that the rollers glide smoothly.
It can also be caused by wear or damage to the hinges that connect the doors that house a portion of these rollers; springs (whether extensions or torsion); and cables which lift the door. These components, when damaged or worn out, could alter the alignment of rollers and cause resistance and other problems, such as doors that feel heavier or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these parts are in sync to keep your patio doors operating smoothly.
Create a crow's foot at one end. 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 then divide by two to find the rollers' alignment (Photo 1). This method is not as accurate as using pi tapes to measure the diameter directly, but it's much more efficient and less time-consuming than measuring each individual rail with a level or carpenter's level.
Another option for checking roller alignment is to remove the head stop, a flat plate 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 when the door is heavy, obtaining assistance with this step. Once the head stop has been removed, remove the screws that adjust the head track by removing them with a screwdriver, then reinstall the assembly by aligning each adjustment screw with the access hole for it and tapping it in with a Hammer.
Tracks that are damaged or dirty
Patio doors that slide can act as magnets for debris, dirt and other elements outside. They can also be susceptible to misalignment and other issues that require professional repair services. To prolong the lifespan of your patio door identifying and addressing these problems early on is essential.
Dirty tracks are among the most common causes of sliding patio door malfunctions. Over time, food particles, pet hair and yard debris can get trapped in the tiny spaces of the track of your sliding door, causing the door to snag or become difficult to open. It is recommended that you clean and vacuum your tracks of your patio door at least once a month to avoid problems. You can clean your patio door tracks using a non-abrasive cleaning solution, or with warm soapy tap water once you've removed any debris that is floating around. If you notice areas of the track are harder to clean, try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean out these tiny areas.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, you must 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 on a regular basis. You can also rub paraffin wax along the track to increase the glide.
Another issue that could impact your sliding patio door is air leak or draft. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has worn out or damaged. This can result in a gap between the frame and door, which allows air to be able to enter and decrease the efficiency of your energy. Check that your weatherstripping is in good shape and replace it when needed.
With consistent use, your patio door will experience normal wear and tear over time. However these issues are usually not a sign of a significant issue. In most cases, minor repairs can prolong the life of your patio door and keep it operating properly. Contact a professional as soon when you spot any issues to avoid costly repairs.
Warped or cracked glass
A patio door that's damaged or sagging can be a real eyesore and can pose security risks. double glazed patio door repairs can also allow unwanted animals into your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. Fortunately, these issues are usually easy to fix if you catch them early.
A quick glance at the glass will aid in determining what kind of repairs are required. Cracks in glass are usually caused by impact or stress. They can be a bit more difficult to fix than simple surface chips. A professional may have to re-lead the panel. This would require removing the glass and replacing any broken pieces. To ensure that the new glass with the old one, professionals require exact documentation of the way the piece looked at the time.
Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. It is available in a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will use the soldering tool to melt the plastic and then apply it to the crack. After the plastic has cooled down and the professional has removed any excess.
If the crack is not too big it is possible to repair the glass using clear sealant. This type of product is available at any hardware store. It is important to dry the crack thoroughly before applying sealant. This will prevent the repair from failing. A hair dryer or another fan can be used to expedite this process.
Weatherstripping damaged
A damaged weather stripping is not only unsightly and a security risk but it also allows air from outside to get in and cold or hot air escape. A quick fix with a new piece of weather stripping could save you money and keep your home more comfortable.
First, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit or adhesive/caulk sealant (depending on the repair method), scissors, pliers, utility knife, as well as gloves or protective goggles. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting one end piece, then pulling it up along with any attaching screws in the event that they are needed. Then remove any pieces still left over using pliers or a pry bar.
Begin by measuring the gap around the door frame. You can use the measurements to determine the length of weather stripping that you need. Make sure you leave extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you've found the perfect size, apply the backing with adhesive and press it against the frame. If desired you would like to use a small nail to tack the frame in place.
Finally, apply 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 use oil-based paint, but latex will also work.
Last but not least, clean your sliding door tracks and doors regularly. Making the effort to do this prevents sticking and other problems later on. Cleaning and maintaining your patio doors will ensure that they remain attractive, functional and energy-efficient. You can save money while enjoying the outdoors while doing it. Happy fixing your home!