Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors offer homeowners natural light and fresh, clean air. They also boost the value of homes. Over time, however, they may develop problems that require immediate attention.
Understanding how patio doors function will help homeowners communicate better with contractors about problems they face. Here are some of the most common problems with patio doors:
Rollers that aren't aligned properly
It's not always simple to open a sliding patio door. But it's not a sign of a structural problem, most such doors that aren't cooperating could be fixed by a bit of cleaning and lubrication. The majority of the time dirt in the lower track can cause the bottom track and rollers 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 smoothly.
In addition, misalignment can be caused because of wear or damage in the hinges connecting the door panels that house some of the rollers; springs, whether torsion or extension and cables, which raise the door. When damaged or worn these components can cause problems with the alignment of the rollers, causing resistance, as well as a heavier door or higher energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections can help ensure that these components are in sync to keep your patio door functioning smoothly.
Install a crow's feet at one end and use the tramming stick to sweep across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process at the other end of track and divide by two to get the rollers' alignment (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 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 on the door jamb at bottom of the frame that stops the rollers. If the door is heavy you may require assistance in removing removable grilles and shades. After removing the head stop, remove the head track adjusters screws by backing them up with the screwdriver. Then, reinstalling the assembly, align each adjustment screw with its access hole, and tapping it with the hammer.
Tracks that are damaged or dirty
A sliding patio door can serve as magnet for dirt, debris, and other elements. They also are susceptible to misalignment, and other issues which may require professional repair. To extend the life of your patio doors, it is crucial to recognize and fix these issues in the earliest time possible.
One of the most common causes for sliding patio doors to fail is filthy tracks. Over time, food debris, pet hair, and yard debris can get trapped in the tiny spaces of the track of your sliding door which can cause the door to snag or become difficult to open. To avoid these issues it is recommended to vacuum and clean your patio door tracks once every month. You can clean your patio door tracks with a non-abrasive cleaner or warm soapy tap water once you've removed any debris that is floating around. If you notice parts of the track are harder to clean, you can try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean these tiny spaces.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, it is recommended to lubricate them regularly to prevent your sliding door from sticking or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, it is recommended that you add silicone spray to the bottom track on a regular basis. You can also use paraffin wax to improve the glide.
Air leaks or drafts can also affect your sliding patio doors. This can occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is worn out or damaged. This can cause gaps between your patio door and the frame. This allows air to enter and decreases the efficiency of energy. Ensure that your weather stripping is in good working order and replace it if required.
If you use it regularly, your patio door will experience normal wear and wear and tear with time. However these issues are usually not indicative of a major problem. Minor repairs can extend the lifespan of your patio door. Call a professional as quickly as you notice any problems to avoid costly repairs.
Glass that is damaged or warped
A cracked or warped patio door is a serious eyesore and a potential security risk. This can also allow unwanted animals into your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. These problems are easy to fix if they are caught early.
First, a quick glance at the glass can help determine what type of repair is needed. Glass cracks are typically caused by stress or impact. These are a little more difficult to fix than normal chipping on the surface. A professional may require re-leading the panel. This will require removing the glass and replacing any broken pieces. To do this, professionals will require accurate documentation of the piece as it looked originally to aid in comparing the new glass with the old one.
Sometimes cracks in the glass can be filled with epoxy plastic. You can buy this in a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will typically employ the soldering iron to melt the plastic, then apply it to the crack in the glass. After it has been cooled, the professional will wipe away any excess.
If the crack is not too big it might be possible to repair the glass by using clear sealant. This type of product is available at any hardware store. However, it is important to dry thoroughly the damaged area before applying sealant. This will prevent the repair from failing. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer or another fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A damaged weather stripping is not just ugly and a security risk, but it also allows outside air to get in and heat or cold escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping on your home.
First, ensure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit, or caulk sealant or adhesive (depending on the repair method) tools, scissors, pliers, a utility knife, as well as gloves or protective goggles. Remove the old weather stripping, by cutting through the end piece, and then pulling it back up with any screws attached if applicable. Remove any remaining pieces with pliers and a prybar.
If you decide to replace the weather stripping, start by measuring the gap around the door frame. The measurements can be used to determine the length of weather stripping you will require. Make sure you leave a bit of extra length to refine the fit later. Once you've found the perfect size, apply the adhesive backing and press it against the frame. If desired, tack it to the frame using the nail or hammer.
Finally apply repair patio door lock to any divots or holes in the frame. Let the filler completely dry before painting. In general, it is best to apply oil-based paint on the filler, however latex paint will work too.
Lastly, make sure to clean your sliding doors and tracks regularly. This will prevent future problems like sticking. Making sure you are keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they remain functional, attractive, and energy-efficient. If you do this, you can enjoy the great outdoors with confidence and save money at the same time! Enjoy your home improvements!