Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors provide homeowners with sunlight and fresh, clean air. They also boost the value of homes. But over time, they can create issues that must be addressed swiftly.
Understanding how patio doors work can help homeowners communicate more effectively with contractors regarding issues they face. Here are some of the most frequent patio door problems:
Misaligned rollers
Sometimes, a sliding patio door gets stuck and it's not simple to get the thing to open once more. But it's not a sign of a structural issue, the majority of uncooperative doors can be easily repaired with a little cleaning and lubrication. The majority of the time dirt on the lower track can cause the bottom track and rollers to misalign. In this case, clean the track thoroughly before applying an even layer of lubricant so that the rollers can glide easily.
Misalignment may 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 that lift the door. When damaged or worn these components can cause problems with the alignment of the rollers, leading to resistance and other problems such as an increased weight of the door or energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections will ensure that these elements are working together to ensure that your patio doors are operating smoothly.
Create a crow's foot at one end, and use a trammingstick to sweep across the rollers. Note patio doors repairs . Repeat the process at the opposite end of the track, and divide by 2 to obtain a reading of the rollers' parallelism (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using pi tapes to measure the diameter directly, but it's much faster and easier than measuring each individual rail with a level or carpenter's level.
Another option to check roller alignment is to remove the head stop, which is a flat plate that is located on the door jamb at the bottom of the frame that blocks the rollers. This will require removing any removable grilles or shades and, in the event that the door is heavy, obtaining assistance with this step. After removing the head stop, remove the head track adjusters screws by backing them with a screwdriver. After reinstalling the assembly, align each screw for adjustment to its access hole, then tapping it with a hammer.
Dirty or damaged tracks
Sliding patio door can act as magnet for dirt, debris and other elements. They also are susceptible to misalignment and other issues which may require professional repairs. To extend the life of your patio doors, it is important to identify and address these issues in the earliest time possible.
One of the most frequent reasons for sliding patio doors to fail is filthy tracks. Over time, food debris, pet hair, and yard debris could get trapped in the tiny spaces of your sliding door track and cause the door to stick or become difficult to open. To avoid these issues, it's recommended to vacuum and clean your patio door tracks once every month. Once you've removed all the loose debris and dirt, you can use a non-abrasive household cleaning solution or warm soapy water to wipe down your patio door tracks. If you notice that some areas of the track are difficult to clean, you can use a butter knife or toothbrush to clean these small areas.
It is also recommended to lubricate the tracks on a regular basis to prevent 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 apply paraffin wax to increase the glide.
Air leaks or drafts can also affect your sliding patio doors. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is damaged or worn out. This can result in gaps between the frame and the door that allows air to be able to enter and decrease the efficiency of your energy. Make sure that your weather stripping is in good shape and replace it when required.
With regular use, your patio door will show normal wear and tear over time. However, these issues are typically not a sign of a serious issue. In most cases, minor repairs can extend the life of your patio door and ensure it is functioning properly. Contact a professional to address any problems as soon as they occur to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is warped or cracked
A patio door that's cracked or warped is a real eye-sore and can pose an security risk. It can also let in unwanted animals and cause your home's temperature change dramatically. These problems are easy to fix when discovered early.
A quick glance at the glass will aid in determining what kind of repairs are needed. Cracks in glass are usually caused by impact or stress. These are a little more difficult to fix than simple surface chips. A professional will likely have to re-lead the panel. This will require the removal of the glass and cleaning it, as well as replacing broken pieces. This is why a professional will need accurate documentation of the piece as it looked originally to help match up the new glass with the old one.
Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. You can buy this in a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will use a soldering tool to melt the plastic then apply it to the crack. After it has cooled, the professional can clean any excess.
If the crack is small, it may be possible to repair the glass by using clear sealant. This kind of product is available at any hardware store. It is essential to dry the crack completely prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. You can accelerate the process by using a hair dryer or other fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A weather stripping that's worn-out not only looks ugly and is a security risk however it also allows the outside air and heat out. A quick fix with a new piece of weather stripping will save you money while keeping your home more comfortable.
Make sure you have the appropriate tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit, or caulk sealant adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method) and scissors, pliers, utility knife, and a pair of gloves or protective goggles. Then, remove the old weather stripping by cutting through the end piece and then pulling it up, along with any screws for attachment in the event that they are needed. Then, gently remove any pieces left over using pliers or a pry bar.
Begin by measuring the space around the door frame. The measurements can be used to determine the length of weather stripping you require. Be sure to leave an extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you've found the perfect size, apply the adhesive backing and press it against the frame. If you wish you would like to use a small nail to secure the frame to the wall.
Finally apply wood filler to any divots or holes in the frame. Let the filler completely dry before painting. It is recommended to use oil-based paint, however, latex can also be used.
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 down the road. Maintaining regular maintenance and repairs to your patio doors ensures they are attractive, functional and energy efficient. You will save money and enjoy the great outdoors while doing it. Happy home-fixing!