Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors give homeowners light and fresh air and enhance the value of a house. Over time, however, they may develop problems that require immediate attention.
Understanding how patio doors function can help homeowners better communicate with a contractor regarding the issues they experience. Here are a few of the most frequent problems with patio doors:
Rollers that aren't aligned properly
It's not always simple to open a sliding patio door. Most of these uncooperative sliding patio doors can be fixed easily with some cleaning and oiling, unless a structural issue is present. Typically dirt on the lower track can cause the track's rollers and bottom track to be misaligned. In this case, clean the track thoroughly and apply a thin layer of lubricant so that the rollers are able to glide easily.
The misalignment could also be due to wear or damage in the hinges connecting the doors which house a portion of the rollers, springs that are either extension or torsion and cables, which lift the door. These components, when damaged or worn out, could cause roller alignment issues and cause resistance, as well as other issues, like the door feeling heavier or higher energy consumption. Regular maintenance checks and regular professional inspections can help ensure that all the components work in harmony to ensure that your patio door is operating smoothly.
To determine the alignment of rollers, set up an eagle's foot at one end of the track and use a tramming stick to sweep across both rollers, recording the distance they travel. Repeat the process at the other end of the track and divide by two to get the rollers' alignment (Photo 1). This method is not as precise as using pi tapes to measure the diameter directly, but it's much more efficient and less time-consuming than measuring each rail with a level or carpenter's level.
Another option for checking the alignment of the rollers is to remove the head stop, which is a flat plate on the jamb of the door at the bottom of the frame that blocks the rollers. This requires removing any removable grilles or shades and, if the door is heavy, you should seek assistance in this process. After removing the head stop remove the head track adjustments screws by securing them with a screwdriver. After reinstalling your assembly and aligning each adjustment screw with its access hole, and tapping it with a hammer.
Dirty tracks or damaged tracks
The sliding patio door acts as an attraction for dirt, debris and other elements. They can also be susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues that may require professional repair services. To prolong the life of your patio door, the identification and resolution of these issues promptly is crucial.
Dirty tracks are among the most common causes of malfunctions in sliding patio doors. Over time dirt and other debris like food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris can get trapped in the narrow spaces between your sliding door tracks and cause it to get stuck or difficult to open. To avoid this it is recommended to clean and vacuum your patio door tracks once each month. You can clean your patio door tracks using a non-abrasive cleaning solution, or with warm soapy tap water after having removed any debris that is floating around. If you find that certain parts of the track are difficult to clean, use the butter knife or toothbrush to clean these tiny areas.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, it is recommended to keep them lubricated to prevent sliding doors from squeezing or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest adding silicone spray to your bottom track regularly. You can also rub paraffin wax along the track to increase the glide.
Another issue that could affect your sliding patio door is draft or air leak. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is worn out or damaged. This can result in an opening between the frame and the door that allows air to come in and reduces the efficiency of your energy. Make sure that your weather stripping is in good shape and replace it as needed.
Over time your patio door will be subject to normal wear and tear. These issues are not usually an indication of a serious issue. Small repairs can prolong the lifespan of your patio door. Contact a professional as soon as you notice any problems to avoid future costly repairs.
Glass that is cracked or warped
A patio door that is damaged or cracked is a real eye-sore, and it could pose an security risk. It can also permit unwanted animals into your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. These issues are easy to fix when detected early.
First, a quick glance at the glass can determine the type of repair is required. Generally, cracks in the glass are the result of stress or impact. These are more difficult to repair than chips on the surface. A professional will likely need to re-lead the panel. This will require taking the glass off and cleaning, as well as replacing any broken pieces. To make sure that the new glass to the original, a professional requires precise documentation of the way the piece looked at the time.
Sometimes RepairMyWindowsAndDoors in glass can be filled with plastic epoxy. It is available at a hardware store, or in the home improvement section. A professional will typically use a soldering iron to melt the plastic, then apply it to the cracks in the glass. After it has cooled, the professional can wipe away any excess.
If the crack is small, it may be possible to repair the glass with clear sealant. This type of product can be purchased at any hardware store. It is essential to thoroughly dry the cracked area before applying sealant. This will prevent the repair from failing. You can accelerate the process by using a hair dryer or other fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A weather stripping that is worn out is not just ugly and is a security risk, but also allows outside air and heat to escape. A simple fix with a new piece of weather stripping could save you money while keeping your home more comfortable.
Ensure you have the right tools and materials. You will need 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 knife as well as protective gloves or goggles and a new weather-stripping kit. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting through one end piece, then pulling it up, along with any screws that attach it, when applicable. Remove any remaining pieces with the pliers and a prybar.
Begin by measuring the space around the door frame. The measurements can be used to determine the size of weather stripping that you require. Make sure to leave some extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you've got the right size, place the backing and press it against the frame. If you wish you want to, use a nail to tack the frame to the wall.
Apply wood filler to the frame to cover any divots or holes. Let the filler dry completely prior to painting. It is recommended to use oil-based paints, but latex will also work.
Last but not least, clean your sliding door tracks and doors regularly. This will prevent future problems such as sticking. Repairing and maintaining your patio doors will ensure they remain attractive, functional and energy efficient. When you do this you will be able to enjoy the great outdoors with confidence and save money at the same time! Enjoy your home renovation projects!