Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors provide homeowners with natural sunlight and fresh air and enhance the value of a house. However, over time, they can cause issues that must be addressed quickly.
Understanding the way patio doors operate can help homeowners communicate with a contractor about the issues they face. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered patio door problems:
Rollers that are not aligned
Sometimes an outdoor sliding door can become stuck and it's difficult to get it to open once more. The majority of these uncooperative sliding patio doors can be repaired easily with a bit of oiling and cleaning in the event that a structural issue is present. The most frequent cause is dirt in the lower track, which may cause the rollers to rub against the track at the bottom and cause them to be misaligned. In this case it is necessary to clean the track and apply a light coating of lubricant, allowing the rollers glide smoothly.
It can be caused by wear or damage to the hinges that connect the doors that house a portion of these rollers, springs (whether extensions or torsion) and cables that lift the door. When these components are damaged or worn, can alter the alignment of rollers and cause resistance, as well as other problems, such as a heavier feeling door or a rise in energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections will ensure that these elements are in sync to keep your patio doors operating smoothly.
To verify the alignment between rollers, set up the crow's feet at the one end of the track. Then use a tramming stick to sweep across both rollers, recording the distance that each travels. Repeat the process at the opposite side of the track, and then divide by 2 to obtain a reading of the parallelism of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as precise as using pi tapes to measure diameter directly, but it's faster and easier than measuring each individual 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 in the door jamb at the bottom of the frame that stops the rollers. This will require removing any removable grilles or shades and, when the door is heavy, getting assistance in this process. Once the head stop is removed, carefully remove the head track adjustment screws by backing them out with a screwdriver, then reinstall the assembly by aligning each screw adjustment for the roller with the access hole for it and tapping it in using a hammer.
Dirty or damaged tracks
A sliding patio door can serve as an attraction for dirt, debris and other elements. They can also be susceptible to misalignment and other issues that could require professional repair services. In order to extend the lifespan of your patio door the identification and resolution of these issues promptly is crucial.
One of the main reasons for sliding patio doors to fail is filthy tracks. Over time, dirt and other debris such as pet hair, food crumbs and yard debris, could get caught in the tiny spaces between your sliding door tracks, causing it to become stuck or difficult to open. To avoid this it is recommended to sweep and clean your patio door tracks at least once per month. Once patio door repairs 've removed all the debris that has accumulated, you can use a non-abrasive household cleaning solution or warm soapy water to wipe down your patio door tracks. If you notice that certain parts of the track are difficult to clean, try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean out these small spaces.
It is also recommended to lubricate the tracks on a regular basis to prevent sliding doors from becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest applying 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 can occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has worn out or damaged. This could cause gaps between the frame and door that allows air to be able to enter and decrease the efficiency of energy. Make sure your weatherstripping is in good order and replace it if needed.
Over time your patio door will see normal wear and tear. However these issues are usually not indicative of a significant issue. Minor repairs can extend the lifespan of your patio door. Contact a professional as soon as you notice any problems to avoid future costly repairs.
Glass that has cracked or warped
A patio door that's damaged or sagging can be a real eyesore and can pose security risks. It can also permit unwanted animals into your home and cause the temperature to fluctuate. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple to fix in the event that you spot them early.
First, a quick glance at the glass can help determine what type of repair is needed. Glass cracks are typically caused by impact or stress. They are more difficult to repair than normal cracks in the surface. A professional will probably need to re-lead the panel. This would require removal of the glass and replacing any broken pieces. To help match the new glass with the old, a professional needs exact documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.
Sometimes, a crack in the glass can be filled with epoxy plastic. This can be purchased from hardware stores or the home improvement section of a lot of stores. A professional will use the soldering tool to melt the plastic and then apply it to the crack. After the plastic has cooled down it is then removed by the professional any excess.
If the glass crack is small, there may be a possibility of repairing it with clear sealant. You can purchase this kind of product from any hardware store. It is important to dry the crack completely prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or another fan can be used to speed up this procedure.
Damaged weatherstripping
A damaged weather stripping is not only unsightly and a security risk, but it also allows outside air to seep in and cold or heat escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping on your home.
First, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. This includes a new weather stripping kit or caulk sealant adhesive (depending on the repair method) and 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 and pulling it up along with any screws for attachment in the event that they are needed. Then take any remaining pieces over with pliers or a pry bar.
Begin by measuring the gap around the door frame. Use the measurements to determine the size of weather stripping you will need. Make sure you leave extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you've found the perfect size, apply the backing and press the material against the frame. If you want, use a small nail to tack the frame to the wall.
Apply wood filler to the frame to fill any holes or divots. Let the filler dry completely before applying paint. Ideally, it's best to apply oil-based paint over the filler, but latex paint is also a good choice.
The last thing to do is take care to clean your sliding door tracks and doors frequently. This will avoid future issues such as sticking. Repairing and maintaining your patio doors will ensure they remain functional, attractive and energy-efficient. If you do this, you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence and save some money at the same time! Happy fixing your home!