Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors give homeowners sunlight and fresh air and boost the value of a home. In time, however they could develop issues that require immediate attention.

Understanding the way patio doors operate can help homeowners communicate with contractors about the issues they experience. Here are some common who repairs sliding patio doors for patio doors:.

Rollers that aren't aligned properly

Sometimes the sliding patio door repair service patio door gets stuck and it's not easy to get it to open again. But it's not a sign of a structural problem, most such doors that aren't cooperating can be fixed with some cleaning and lubrication. The most frequent cause is dirt in the lower track, which could cause the rollers to rub against the bottom track and cause them to misalign. In this case clean the track thoroughly before applying the lubricant in a thin layer so that the rollers are able to glide smoothly.

Misalignment can also occur because of wear or damage in the hinges connecting the door panels that house some of the rollers, springs that are either extension or torsion; and cables, which raise the door. If damaged or worn out these components could affect the alignment of the rollers, causing resistance, as well as a heavier door or higher energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections will ensure that these components are in sync to ensure that your patio doors are operating smoothly.

Set up a crow’s foot 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 track and divide by two to find the alignment of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as precise as using pi tapes to measure the diameter directly, but it's more efficient and less time-consuming than measuring each rail with a level or carpenter's level.

Another option to check the alignment of the rollers is to remove the head stop, which is a flat plate in the door jamb at the bottom of the frame, which stops the rollers. If the door is heavy you may require help in removing removable grilles and shades. After taking off the head stop, take out the head track adjustment screws by backing them up with a screwdriver. After reinstalling the assembly, align each roller adjustment screw to its access hole, then tapping it with the hammer.

Tracks that are damaged or dirty

The sliding patio door acts as an attraction for dirt, debris and other elements. They also are susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues that require professional repair. To prolong the life of your patio doors, it's crucial to recognize and fix these issues as soon as you can.

One of the main causes for sliding patio doors to malfunction is dirty tracks. Over time, dirt tilt and slide patio door repairs near me other debris, such as pet hair, food crumbs and yard debris can be trapped in the small spaces between the tracks of your sliding doors which can cause it to get stuck or difficult to open. It is recommended to clean and vacuum the tracks of your patio doors at least once a month to avoid problems. You can clean your patio door tracks with a non-abrasive cleaning solution, or warm soapy tap water after you've removed any debris that is floating around. If you notice that some areas of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or toothbrush to clean these tiny areas.

You should also lubricate the tracks on a regular basis to prevent your sliding door 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 along the track to improve the glide.

A draft or a leak of air can also affect your sliding patio doors. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has damaged or worn out. This can cause gaps between your patio door and the frame. This allows air to enter and decreases the efficiency of energy. Make sure that your weather stripping is in good condition and replace it as needed.

Over time your patio door will see normal wear and tear. However, these issues are typically not a sign of a significant issue. Minor repairs can extend the life of your patio door. Get in touch with a professional as soon when you spot any issues to avoid costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is cracked or warped

A damaged or cracked patio door is an eye-sore and could pose a security risk. This could also allow unwanted animals into your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. Thankfully, these problems are usually fixable in the event that you spot them early.

First, a quick glance at the glass will determine the type of repair is needed. Usually, cracks in glass are the result of stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than chips that are on the surface. A professional may need to reconnect this panel. This will require the removal of the glass, cleaning it, and replacing broken pieces. To ensure that the new glass with the original, a professional requires exact documentation of the way the piece looked at the time.

Plastic epoxy can be used to fill a crack. It can be bought from hardware stores or the home improvement section of a lot of stores. A professional will typically employ an iron soldering to melt the plastic then apply it to the crack in the glass. After it has cooled, the professional can wipe away any excess.

If the crack is not too big, it may be possible to repair the glass by using clear sealant. You can purchase this type of sealant at any hardware store. It is important to dry the crack completely before applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or another fan can be used to speed up this procedure.

Weatherstripping damaged

A weather stripping that is worn out is not only unsightly and a security hazard, but it also allows air from outside to seep in and cold or heat to escape. A simple fix using a new piece of weather stripping can save you money and keep your home more comfortable.

Make sure you have the appropriate tools and materials. You'll need a new weather-stripping kit or adhesive/caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you choose), pliers and scissors, a utility blade as well as protective gloves or goggles, and a replacement weather-stripping kit. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting through the end piece and then pulling it up, along with any screws that attach it, when applicable. Remove any remaining pieces with pliers and a prybar.

Begin by measuring the space around the door frame. Use the measurements to determine the size of weather stripping you will need. Be sure to leave an extra length for later fine-tuning. Once you have the correct size then apply the backing with adhesive and press it against the frame. If desired, tack it to the frame using small nails or hammers.

Apply wood filler onto the frame to cover any holes or divots. Let the filler dry completely before painting. In general, it is best to apply oil-based paint on the filler, but latex paint is also a good choice.

Last but not least, clean your sliding door tracks and doors regularly. Taking the time to do this prevents sticking and other problems down the road. Cleaning and maintaining your patio doors will ensure that they remain functional, attractive and energy-efficient. You can save money while enjoying the outdoors while doing so. Enjoy your home improvements!