Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors give homeowners light and fresh air and can enhance the value of a house. However, with time, they may cause issues that must be addressed immediately.
Understanding how patio doors function will help homeowners communicate with a contractor regarding the problems they encounter. Here are some common repairs for patio doors:.
Rollers that are not aligned
Sometimes an outdoor sliding door gets stuck and it's difficult to get the thing to open again. But it's not a sign of a structural issue, the majority of doors that aren't cooperating can be fixed by a bit of cleaning and lubrication. Most often dirt in the lower track can cause the bottom track and rollers to be misaligned. In this instance clean the track thoroughly and apply the lubricant in a thin layer so that the rollers can glide easily.
Misalignment may also be caused by wear or damage to the hinges that connect the doors that house a portion of these rollers, springs (whether torsion or extensions) and cables that lift the door. If damaged or worn out these components could affect the alignment of the rollers, causing resistance as well as other issues such as a heavier door or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections can help ensure that all the components work in harmony to ensure that your patio door is operating smoothly.
Install a crow's feet at one end. Use a trammingstick to sweep across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the same process at the opposite end of the track, and then divide by two to determine the alignment of the rollers (Photo 1). This method is not as accurate as using pi tapes to measure diameter directly, but it's faster and easier than measuring each rail with a level or carpenter's level.
Another option for checking the alignment of rollers is to take off the head stop, a flat plate that is located 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 are removable, and in the event that the door is heavy, obtaining help with this step. Once the head stop is removed, remove the head track adjustment screws by removing them with an screwdriver. Reinstall the assembly by aligning each screw adjustment for the roller with its access hole, and tapping it in using a Hammer.
Tracks that are dirty or damaged
A sliding patio door can serve as an attraction for dirt, debris, and other elements. They are also susceptible to misalignment and other issues that could require professional repair services. To prolong the lifespan of your patio door, finding and fixing these issues early on is essential.
One of the main causes for sliding patio doors to fail is dirty tracks. Over time,, food debris, pet hair, and yard debris can get stuck in the small spaces of the track of your sliding door which can cause the door to snag or become difficult to open. It is recommended to clean and vacuum the patio door tracks every month, at minimum, to avoid these problems. Once you've removed all the debris that is loose then you can use a non-abrasive home cleaning solution or warm soapy water to wipe 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 small areas.
It is also recommended to lubricate the tracks on a regular basis to prevent your sliding door from becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you own Panda patio doors, it is recommended to add silicone spray to the bottom track on a regular basis. You can also apply paraffin wax to enhance the glide.
Another common issue that can impact your sliding patio door is a draft or air leak. This could occur when the weather stripping of your sliding patio door has worn away or is damaged. This can cause gaps between the door and frame, which allows air to enter and reduce energy efficiency. Check that your weatherstripping is in good order and replace it if needed.
If you use it regularly your patio door will experience normal wear and wear and tear with time. These problems are usually not an indication of a serious issue. Minor repairs can extend the lifespan of your patio door. Contact a professional to address any issues as soon they occur to prevent costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is warped or cracked
A patio door that's damaged or sagging could be a major eye-sore and could be security risks. It can also let in unwanted critters and make your home's temperature fluctuate dramatically. Thankfully, these problems are usually fixable if you catch them early.
A quick glance at the glass will assist you in determining what kind of repairs are needed. Glass cracks are typically caused by stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than chips on the surface. A professional may have to re-lead the panel. This will require removing the glass clean it, and replacing the broken pieces. To help match sliding glass door replacement with the original, a professional requires accurate documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.
Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. You can purchase this in a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will use an soldering tool to melt the plastic and then apply it on the crack. After it has cooled, the professional can remove any excess.
If the crack isn't too large it might be possible to repair the glass using clear sealant. You can purchase this type of product from any hardware store. However, it is important to thoroughly dry the cracked area prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or other fan can be used to expedite this process.
Weatherstripping damaged
A worn out weather stripping is not only unsightly and a security risk, but it also allows air from outside to seep in and cold or hot air to escape. A simple fix with a new piece of weather stripping could save you money and make your home more comfortable.
Ensure you have the right tools and materials. You'll require an additional weather-stripping kit, or adhesive/caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you choose) tools, pliers and a pair of scissors, a utility knife and gloves or goggles that are protective, and a replacement weather-stripping kit. Then, remove the old weather stripping by cutting one end piece and lifting it up with any screws that attach it, when applicable. Then take care to remove any pieces left over with pliers or a pry bar.
If you decide to replace the weather stripping, begin by measuring the gap that is around the door frame. You can use the measurements to determine the amount of weather stripping you require. Make sure you leave a bit of extra length so that you can fine-tune the size later. Once you've found the perfect size then apply the backing of the adhesive and press it against the frame. If desired, tack it to the frame with a small nail or hammer.
Finally apply some wood filler to any divots or holes in the frame. Let the filler dry completely prior to applying any paint. It is best to use oil-based paint, however, latex paint can also be used.
Last but not least, clean your sliding door tracks and doors frequently. By taking the time to do this prevents sticking and other issues later on. Keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they stay practical, attractive and energy efficient. If you do this you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence and save money at the same time! Happy home-fixing!