Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors provide homeowners with natural fresh air and light and can boost the value of a home. In time, however they can develop issues that require immediate attention.
Understanding how patio doors work will help homeowners communicate with contractors about the issues they experience. Here are some common repairs for patio doors:.
Rollers that are not aligned
Sometimes an outdoor sliding door will get stuck and it's not simple to get the thing to open again. Most of these sluggish sliding patio doors can be repaired easily by a little oiling and cleaning in the event that a structural issue is present. The most common culprit is dirt on the lower track, which can cause the rollers to rub against the track at the bottom and cause them to be misaligned. In this case you'll need to wash the track and apply a light coat of lubricant so that the rollers move easily.
The misalignment could also be due to damage or wear in the hinges that connect the door panels, which house some of the rollers, springs, whether torsion or extension; and cables, which raise the door. When worn or damaged these components can cause problems with the alignment of the rollers, leading to resistance as well as other issues such as the door being heavier or having higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and regular professional inspections can help ensure that all the components are in sync to keep your patio door operating smoothly.
Install a crow's feet at one end and 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 find the rollers' alignment (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using pi tapes to measure diameter directly, but it's quicker and simpler than measuring each rail with a level or carpenter's level.
You can also test the alignment of the rollers by removing the head stop. This is a flat plate that is located in the bottom of your door jamb. It stops the rollers. If the door is heavy you may need help taking off the grilles and shades that are removable. Once 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 roller adjustment screw with the access hole for it and tapping it in using a hammer.
Dirty tracks or damaged tracks
A sliding patio door can serve as a magnet for dirt, debris and other elements. They can also be susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues that require professional repair. To extend the life of your patio doors, it's crucial to recognize and fix these problems as soon as possible.
Dirty tracks are among the most frequent causes of problems with sliding patio doors. Over time dirt and other debris such as food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris, can get caught in the tiny spaces between your sliding door tracks which can cause it to get stuck or difficult to open. To avoid these issues it is recommended to vacuum and clean your patio door tracks at least once per month. After you've removed all of the debris that is loose, you can use a non-abrasive household cleaning solution or warm soapy water to clean down your patio door tracks. If you notice that some parts of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or a toothbrush to clean these tiny spaces.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, you must be sure to lubricate them frequently to avoid your sliding door from becoming stuck or becoming difficult to open. If you own 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 increase the glide.
A draft or a leak of air can also impact your sliding patio doors. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is worn out or damaged. This could cause a gap between your sliding patio door and the frame. This lets air in and decreases the efficiency of energy. Make sure that your weatherstripping is in good condition and replace it if needed.
Over time, your patio door may experience normal wear. These issues aren't usually indicative of a major issue. In most cases, small repairs can extend the life of your patio door and ensure it is running smoothly. Consult a professional for any problems as soon as they occur to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is damaged or warped
A patio door that's damaged or sagging could be a major eye-sore, and it could pose an security risk. This can also allow unwanted animals into your home and cause the temperature to fluctuate. These issues are easy to fix if they are detected early.
First, a quick look at the glass can help determine what kind of repair is needed. Generally, cracks in glass are the result of stress or impact. They can be a bit more difficult to fix than normal cracks in the surface. A professional will probably need to re-lead the panel. This will require removing the glass and cleaning it, as well as replacing broken pieces. To do this, a professional will need accurate documentation of the piece in its original form to aid in comparing the new glass with the old one.
Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. This can be purchased from a hardware store or the home improvement section of a lot of stores. A professional will typically use a soldering iron to melt the plastic then apply it to the crack in the glass. Once the plastic has cooled it is then removed by the professional any excess.
If the crack is small, it may be possible to repair the glass using clear sealant. You can purchase this type of sealant at any hardware store. It is essential to dry thoroughly the damaged area prior to applying sealant. This will stop the repair from failing. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer or a different fan.
Weatherstripping that is damaged
A weather stripping that's worn-out is not just ugly and can pose a security risk, but also allows the outside air and heat out. A quick fix with a new piece of weather stripping can save you money and keep your home more comfortable.
Ensure you have the right tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit, or adhesive/caulk sealant (depending on the repair method), scissors, pliers, utility knife, as well as gloves or goggles that are protective. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting through an end piece and pulling it up with any screws attached, if applicable. Remove any remaining pieces using the pliers and a prybar.
If you decide to replace the weather stripping, start by measuring the distance around your door frame. You can use the measurements to determine the size of weather stripping you will require. Make sure you leave extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you've found the perfect size, apply the backing of the adhesive and press it against the frame. If desired, tack it in place using the nail or hammer.
Apply wood filler onto the frame to cover any divots or holes. Let the filler dry completely before applying paint. patio door glass replacement cost is recommended to use oil-based paint, however, latex can also be used.
Finally, be sure to clean your sliding doors and tracks regularly. This will avoid future issues like sticking. Cleaning and maintaining your patio doors will ensure they remain attractive, functional 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 improvement projects!