Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors offer homeowners natural sunlight and fresh air and increase a home's value. But over time, they could create issues that must be addressed swiftly.

Understanding how patio doors work can help homeowners communicate with a contractor about the issues they experience. Here are some of the most frequently encountered problems with patio doors:

Rollers that aren't aligned properly

It's not always easy to open a sliding patio door. However, unless there's an underlying structural issue, most doors that aren't cooperating can be repaired with a little cleaning and lubrication. The most common culprit is dirt on the lower track, which could cause the rollers to rub against the track at the bottom and cause them to misalign. In this instance it is necessary to clean the track and apply a thin coating of lubricant to let the rollers glide easily.

The misalignment can also be caused by damage or wear to the hinges connecting the doors that house a portion of these rollers; springs (whether extensions or torsion) as well as cables that lift the door. When these components are damaged or worn, may alter the alignment of rollers and lead to resistance and other issues, like the door feeling heavier or a rise in energy consumption. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections will ensure that these components are in sync to keep your patio doors operating smoothly.

To verify the alignment between rollers, set up an eagle's foot at one end of the track. Then employ a tramming tool to sweep across both rollers, noting the distance each travels. Repeat the process at the other end of the track, and then divide by two to determine the alignment of the rollers (Photo 1). This method is not as precise as using pi tapes to measure the diameter directly, but it's much quicker and simpler than measuring each rail with a level, or carpenter's level.

Another method of checking the alignment of rollers is to take off the head stop, a flat plate in the jamb of the door at the bottom of the frame that stops the rollers. This will require removing any removable grilles or shades and, in the event that the door is heavy, obtaining assistance in this process. After the head stop is removed, remove the head track adjustment screws by pushing them out using the help of a screwdriver. Then, reinstall the assembly by aligning each adjustment screw with the access hole for it and tapping it in with the hammer.

Tracks that are damaged or dirty

Sliding patio doors can serve as magnets for dirt, debris and other outside elements. They are also susceptible to misalignment and other issues that may require professional repair. To extend the lifespan of your patio door, finding tilt and slide patio door repairs fixing these issues promptly is crucial.

One of the most common reasons for sliding patio doors to malfunction is filthy tracks. Over time,, food debris, pet hair, and yard debris can become stuck in the small spaces of your sliding door track which can cause the door to stick or become difficult to open. To avoid this, it's recommended to clean and vacuum your patio door repair company near me door tracks at least once each month. You can clean your patio door tracks using a non-abrasive cleaner or use warm soapy tap water after having removed any debris that is floating around. If you notice that some parts of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or a toothbrush to clean these small spaces.

It is also important to grease the tracks regularly to avoid your sliding patio doors repair door from becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, it is recommended to apply silicone spray to the bottom track on a regular basis. You can also apply paraffin wax along the track to enhance the glide.

Another issue that could affect your sliding patio door is air leak or draft. This could occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has worn away or has been damaged. This could cause a gap between the frame and the door that allows air to be able to enter and decrease energy efficiency. Make sure that your weather stripping is in good working order and replace it as necessary.

Over time your patio door could be subject to normal wear and tear. These issues aren't usually indicative of a major issue. In most cases, minor repairs can help extend the life of your patio door and ensure that it is running smoothly. Call a professional as quickly when you spot any issues to avoid future costly repairs.

Glass that is cracked or warped

A patio door that's cracked or warped could be a major eye-sore, and it could pose security risks. It also allows in unwanted critters and make your home temperature fluctuate wildly. These problems are easy to fix if they are detected early.

A quick glance at the glass can help determine what type of repair is needed. Glass cracks are typically caused by stress or impact. They are more difficult to fix than normal chipping on the surface. A professional may need to reconnect this panel. This would require removal of the glass, cleaning and replacing any broken pieces. To ensure that the new glass to the original, a professional requires exact documentation of how the piece looked at the time.

Sometimes, a crack in the glass can be filled with plastic epoxy. You can purchase this at a hardware store, or in the home improvement section. A professional will usually use an iron soldering to melt the plastic, then apply it to the crack in the glass. After it has been cool, the professional can remove any excess.

If the glass crack is small, there may be a chance of repairing it with clear sealant. This type of product can be found at any hardware store. It is crucial to dry the crack thoroughly before applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or another fan can be used to expedite this process.

Weatherstripping damaged

A weather stripping that is worn out is not just ugly and a security risk but it also allows air from outside to enter and cold or hot air to escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping inside your home.

Ensure you have the right tools and materials. You'll need a replacement weather-stripping kit or adhesive or caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you choose) tools, pliers and a pair of scissors, a utility blade, protective goggles or gloves, and a replacement weather-stripping kit. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting one end piece and lifting it up with any screws for attachment when applicable. Remove any remaining pieces with the pliers and a prybar.

If you decide to replace the weather stripping, begin by measuring the distance around your door frame. Use the measurements to determine what size weather stripping you need. Be sure to leave a little bit of extra length to fine-tune the size later. Once you have the correct size then apply the backing of the adhesive and press it against the frame. If you wish, use a small nail to tack the frame in place.

Apply wood filler onto the frame to cover any divots or holes. Let the filler dry completely prior to painting. It is recommended to use oil-based paint, however, latex can also be used.

Last but not least, clean your sliding door tracks and doors frequently. This will help prevent future issues such as sticking. Cleaning and maintaining your patio doors will ensure they remain functional, attractive and energy-efficient. You can save money while enjoying the great outdoors while doing it. Happy home-fixing!