Patio doors provide homeowners with natural light and fresh, clean air. They also increase the value of a house. In time, however they could develop issues that require immediate attention.
Understanding how patio doors work can help homeowners communicate better with contractors about issues they encounter. Here are some of the most common repairs to patio doors:.
Misaligned rollers
It's not always easy to open a sliding patio door lock repairs door. However, unless there's an underlying structural issue, the majority of doors that aren't cooperating could be fixed with some cleaning and lubrication. Most often dirt in the lower track can cause the rollers and bottom track to become misaligned. In this instance it is necessary to clean the track and apply a light coating of lubricant to let the rollers glide easily.
The misalignment could also be because of wear or damage in the hinges that connect the doors, which house some of the rollers; springs that are either extension or torsion and cables, which raise the door. When they are damaged or worn, may cause roller alignment issues and lead to resistance and other problems, such as a heavier feeling door or a rise in energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these components are in good working order to ensure that your patio doors are operating smoothly.
Set up a crow’s foot at one end. Use the trammingstick to move across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process at the other end of track and divide by two to find the alignment of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using pi tape to measure the diameter directly. It is however, faster and less cumbersome than using a carpenter's level to measure each rail.
You can also test the alignment of the rollers by taking off the head stop. It is a flat plate that is located at the bottom of the door jamb. It stops the rollers. If the door is very heavy, you may need help removal of the removable grilles and shades. Once the head stop is removed, remove the screws that adjust the head track by pushing them out using an screwdriver. Reinstall the assembly by aligning each roller adjustment screw with its access hole and tapping it in using the Hammer.
Tracks that are damaged or dirty
Patio doors that slide open can serve as magnets for debris, dirt and other outside elements. They can also be prone to misalignment and other issues that require professional repair. To prolong the life of your patio doors, it's important to identify and address these issues as soon as you can.
One of the main causes for sliding patio doors to fail is dirty tracks. Over time dirt and other debris like food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris, can get caught in the tiny spaces between your sliding door tracks, causing it to become stuck or difficult to open. To avoid problems like this it is recommended to vacuum and clean your patio door track repair door tracks once each month. After you've cleared all the debris that has accumulated, 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 difficult to clean, you can use a butter knife or a toothbrush to clean these tiny areas.
You should also lubricate the tracks frequently to prevent your sliding door from becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we recommend adding silicone spray to your bottom track regularly. You can also apply paraffin wax along the track to improve the glide.
A draft or air leak can also impact your sliding patio doors. This can happen when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is worn or is damaged. This could cause an opening between the frame and door, which allows air to enter and reduce the efficiency of energy. Check that your weatherstripping is in good condition and replace it if necessary.
With consistent use your patio door will show normal wear and wear and tear over time. However these issues are usually not a sign of a significant issue. In most cases, small repairs can help extend the life of your patio door and keep it running smoothly. Get in touch with a professional as soon as you notice any problems to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is cracked or warped
A warped or cracked patio door can be a major eye-sore and could pose a security risk. It can also permit unwanted animals to enter your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. Fortunately, these issues are usually easy to fix when they are caught early.
A quick glance at the glass will help you determine what type of repairs are required. Glass cracks are typically caused by impact or stress. These are more difficult to repair than chips on the surface. A professional may need to re-lead this panel. This will mean taking the glass off and replacing any broken pieces. To make sure that the new glass with the old, a professional requires exact documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.
Sometimes, a crack in the glass can be filled with plastic epoxy. It can be purchased at hardware stores or in the home improvement section of many stores. A professional will typically employ an iron soldering to melt the plastic, then apply it to the crack in the glass. After the plastic has cooled and the professional has removed any excess.
If the crack in the glass is not too large, there could be a possibility of repairing it with clear sealant. This type of product is available at any hardware store. However, it is important to thoroughly dry the damaged area prior to applying sealant. This will stop the repair from failing. You can accelerate the process by using a hair dryer or another fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A weather stripping that is worn out is not just unsightly and a security risk, but it also allows outside air to enter and cold or heat escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping in your home.
First, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes a new weather stripping kit, or adhesive/caulk sealant (depending on your chosen repair method) tools, scissors, pliers, utility knife, and a pair of gloves or goggles that are protective. Then, remove the old weather stripping by cutting through one end piece, then pulling it up along with any screws for attachment if applicable. Remove any remaining pieces with pliers and a prybar.
If you decide to replace the weather stripping, start by measuring the distance around your door frame. You can use these measurements to determine the size of weather stripping you require. Make sure to leave some extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you have the right size, apply the backing with adhesive and press it against the frame. If desired, tack it to the frame with the nail or hammer.
Finally, apply wood filler to any divots or holes in the frame. Let the filler completely dry before painting. It's best to use oil-based paint, but latex will also work.
Lastly, make sure to clean your tracks and sliding doors regularly. This will avoid future issues like sticking. Maintaining and repairing your local patio door repairs doors will ensure that they remain attractive, functional and energy efficient. You can save money and enjoy the outdoors while doing it. Enjoy your home improvement projects!