10 Top Books On Patio Doors Repairs
Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors offer homeowners natural light and fresh clean air. They also enhance the value of a house. But with time, they may create issues that must be addressed quickly.
Understanding how patio doors function will help homeowners communicate with a contractor regarding the problems they encounter. Here are some of the most common repairs to patio doors:.
Rollers that aren't aligned properly
Sometimes, a sliding patio door can become stuck and it's not simple to get it to open again. But, unless there's an underlying structural issue, most doors that aren't cooperating can be repaired with a little cleaning and lubrication. Typically dirt in the lower track can cause the track's rollers and bottom track to misalign. In this situation, you'll need to clean the track and apply a light coating of lubricant, allowing the rollers move easily.
Misalignment may also be caused by damage or wear to the hinges that connect the door panels that house some of these rollers, springs (whether extensions or torsion); and cables which lift the door. These components, when damaged or worn, can cause roller alignment issues and cause resistance, as well as other problems, such as the door feeling heavier or higher energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these parts are working together to keep your patio doors functioning smoothly.
To check roller-to-roller alignment, set up an eagle's foot at the one end of the track. employ a tramming stick to sweep across both rollers, recording the distance each travels. Repeat the process at the other end of track and divide by two to find the rollers' alignment (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using a pi tape to measure diameter directly. It is however, faster and less cumbersome than using a carpenter's or level to measure the length of each rail.
Another method of checking roller alignment is to remove the head stop, which is a flat plate that is located on the jamb of the door at the bottom of the frame that blocks the rollers. This will require removing any grilles or shades that can be removed and, when the door is heavy, obtaining assistance with this step. After taking off the head stop, remove the head track adjustments screws by backing them up with a screwdriver. After reinstalling your assembly and aligning each adjustment screw with its access hole, then tapping it with the hammer.
Dirty or damaged tracks
Sliding patio door can act as a magnet for dirt, debris and other elements. They are also susceptible to misalignment and other issues that may require professional repair services. To prolong the life of your patio door the identification and resolution of these issues early on is essential.
One of the main causes for sliding patio doors to fail is filthy tracks. Over time, dirt food particles, pet hair and yard debris could get stuck in the small spaces of your door's track and cause the door to stick or become difficult to open. To avoid problems like this it is recommended to vacuum and clean your patio door tracks once per month. After you've removed all of the debris that has accumulated, you can use a non-abrasive home cleaning solution or warm soapy water to clean down your patio door tracks. If you find that certain parts of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or toothbrush to clean these tiny spaces.
It is also recommended to lubricate the tracks on a regular basis to prevent your sliding door becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest applying silicone spray to your 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 impact your sliding patio doors. This could happen if the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is worn or is damaged. This can cause an opening between the frame and the door that allows air to enter and reduce energy efficiency. Make sure that your weatherstripping is in good shape and replace it if needed.
Over time your patio door will be subject to normal wear and tear. These issues are not usually a sign of an urgent problem. In most cases, minor repairs can prolong the lifespan of your patio door and ensure that it is running smoothly. Consult a professional for any problems as soon as they appear to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is cracked or warped
A damaged or cracked patio door can be a major eyesore and a potential security risk. It could also allow in unwanted creatures and cause your home's temperature fluctuate dramatically. Fortunately, these issues are usually easy to fix in the event that you spot them early.
A quick glance at the glass will determine the type of repair is needed. Generally, cracks in glass are caused by stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than simple chipping on the surface. A professional will probably have to re-lead the panel. This will require taking the glass off and cleaning, as well as replacing any broken pieces. To make sure that the new glass to the old one, professionals require exact documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.
Plastic epoxy can be used to fill a crack. This can be purchased from a hardware store or the home improvement section of many stores. A professional will use a soldering tool to melt the plastic and then apply it on the crack. Once the plastic has cooled down and the professional has removed any excess.
If the glass crack is not too large, there could be a chance of repairing it using clear sealant. You can buy this type of product from any hardware store. It is essential to dry thoroughly the damaged area prior to applying the sealant. This will stop the repair from failing. patio door repairs can speed up the process by using a hair dryer or a different fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A weather stripping that is worn out not only looks bad and can pose a security risk, but also allows outside air in and heat to escape. A quick fix with a new piece of weather stripping could save you money and make your home more comfortable.
Ensure you have the right tools and materials. You'll need an additional weather-stripping kit, or adhesive/caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you select) tools, pliers and a pair of scissors, a utility blade as well as protective gloves or goggles and a replacement weather-stripping kit. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting one end piece, then lifting it up with any attaching screws if applicable. Remove any remaining pieces with pliers and a plier.
If you decide to replace the weather stripping, begin by measuring the gap that is around your door frame. Utilize the measurements to determine the size of weather stripping you need. Make sure to leave some extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you have the right size then apply the backing with adhesive and press it against the frame. If you wish, nail it to the frame using small nails or hammers.
Finally, apply some wood filler to any divots or holes in the frame. Let the filler dry completely before painting. It's best to use oil-based paints, however, latex can also be used.
Last but not least, clean your sliding door tracks and doors regularly. Making the effort to do this prevents sticking and other issues later on. Maintaining and repairing your patio doors will ensure they remain attractive, functional and energy efficient. When you do this you can enjoy the great outdoors with confidence and save money at the same time! Happy fixing your home!