5 Laws That Anyone Working In Patio Doors Repair Should Be Aware Of
Patio Doors Repair - How to Fix a Wet Dog and Save Your Dog From Cold, Wet Feet
Patio doors create a convenient and comfortable transition between your home and outdoor space. By keeping air inside your home, they can help you save money on heating or cooling costs.
Over time the luster of your sliding glass or French door will fade. However, simple repairs can keep them looking and working as new.
Weatherstripping
You're walking your dog to the park around 5 AM when you step into a puddle that is right near your sliding patio door. You turn around and see that the rain of last night has blown through the seals of your patio doors. This won't be an easy project. But with a little patience and some tools to fix the issue, you'll be able to do it and protect your dog from cold, wet feet.
The key is to replace the weatherstripping, which seals the gap between your door and jamb, keeping out moisture, pests, and drafts. This will also help keep your energy costs down. If you look at your doors and windows you will be able to tell whether the weatherstripping should be replaced or not.
There are many types of weatherstripping to choose from that include open-cell and felt foam, thermoplastic rubber, as well as metals like copper or bronze. Each type has advantages and disadvantages. Foam and open-cell foam are both inexpensive however they tend to be visible and ineffective at blocking airflow. Vinyl is more expensive however, it is durable and resists moisture. Rubber is a great material for areas with high traffic since it won't deteriorate as easily.
For installing new weatherstripping, you must first remove the doors to the frame using a screwdriver to loosen the screws that adjust the rollers. Then using a flathead screwdriver unscrew the plugs that secure the weatherstripping on the bottom of the frame. Remove the old weatherstripping from the frame and clean any adhesive residue. Then, cut the new to the proper length, peel back the plastic strip on the other side and attach it to the jamb using the putty knife.
After you're done, put back the door and readjust the roller screws to ensure that the door is positioned in the track and closes properly. Apply waterproof caulk where the stationary panel obstructs the sliding door and where the edge of the panel is the frame. This is a less secure seal than weatherstripping, however it will last for a while.
Handles and locks
Locks and handles for patio doors play a crucial role in the security of your home. As time passes, they may get worn or damaged and need to be replaced. Additionally, the spindle which connects the exterior and interior handles may also need to be replaced.
To replace a patio door handle first remove the previous one by unscrewing the screws that are holding it in place. Once the old handle is removed using a level, ensure that the door is straight before installing the new handle. If the door isn't straight, it could interfere with the lock and cause issues in the future.
Close and open the handle several times after installation to make sure it's working correctly. If you have any problems you are having trouble, contact the manufacturer or a hardware expert for assistance. To avoid future issues, it is recommended also to lubricate your lock mechanism with silicone-based lubricant.
The most common door lock for patio doors is the mortise latch. It's usually constructed of steel and is placed in a pocket that is cut into the door frame. These locks are typically used on sliding wood and aluminum doors. Before purchasing a replacement mortise lock, you need to measure. The measurements you need include the locations of the mounting holes as well as the location of the keyway in the lock.
Some patio door handles are equipped with a locking mechanism built into the handle. These handles come with a rectangular key cylinder which is inserted into the handle's keyway. This type of patio door comes with the exterior and inside locks within one unit. This kind of patio door are typically found on sliding aluminum doors.
If your patio door latch doesn't stay latched it could be because the lock tongue isn't grasping the jamb's hasp correctly. Another possibility is that the sliding door isn't completely parallel with the side jamb. The door should be opened by about an inch, then place it against the frame. This will reveal the gap between the door jamb and the door. If there is, you can adjust the rollers on the lower left or right side of the patio door to get it in perfect alignment with the jamb.
Misalignment
In time the tracks and rollers of the door can lose their alignment. This could cause the doors to become stuck or difficult to move. It also allows cold air and draughts to infiltrate your home, which can decrease energy efficiency. patio doors repairs RepairMyWindowsAndDoors can be easily fixed and prevented. Applying a silicone-based oil to the rollers and tracks will make your doors glide again. It's a good idea to regularly do this to keep your doors in top operating condition.
A damaged or ripped screen can be a problem. It could cause inconvenience or even risky. It may also hinder the doors from closing and opening properly, leading to energy loss. In some cases, the screen can be repaired however in other instances, the door has to be replaced. If you're experiencing a torn screen, wash it thoroughly and make sure to avoid turning the handles of the door the wrong way when closing and opening.
Over time, hinges may loosen due to normal wear and tear or use. This can be fixed by tightening screws frequently. This is an easy task which you can perform by yourself, however if you're not comfortable doing it, consult an expert to ensure that your doors are correctly aligned and secure.
You should also clean the rollers and tracks of your patio doors on a regular basis. Simple brushing or vacuuming will get rid of dust and debris that can hinder the smooth operation your patio doors. You can utilize a special tool to remove tough dirt or corrosion. Checking and tightening the screws on the hinges can aid in re-alignment however, sometimes it's necessary to replace them altogether to ensure a secure, solid seal.
The alignment and performance of your patio doors could be affected if the frames are warped or sagging. Shifting or warping can be caused by foundation issues, but it could also result due to poor installation or regular use. A professional can fix or replace the frame of your patio door and ensure that it is properly aligned and functioning optimally.
Rollers
The sliding patio doors are an excellent way to let the outdoors in and let in plenty of light, however they require some maintenance to ensure that they're moving smoothly. If you find that you have to really yank on the handle to get the door to move, or if it isn't as easy to slide as it used to it could be due to the rollers. Over time the lower track could get clogged by dirt, dirt, and sand. This makes it difficult for rollers to move. You can clean it and spray it with a lubricant like 2Slick to see if it helps.
If the tracks are cleaned and the rollers still not moving freely, it's time to replace the tracks. Replacement rollers are available for your door and track type. You can find them at most hardware stores however you will need someone to help you remove and install the rollers. Before ordering replacements, get an image of the roller assembly installed in the door frame, so experts can identify the specific model and type you need. They can also look for specific features like bumps or dimples cutouts, flared edges, or cutouts to narrow down the alternatives for replacement.
When the rollers are replaced after which you'll have to put your sliding door into its frame. This is a heavy door, so you may require assistance. Begin by making sure there aren't any screws that hold the track in the frame on either side of the frame and that they are loose enough to allow the door's bottom to drop into the channel on top of the frame. If you have screen doors, take it from the opening and ensure it's free of track and rollers.
After putting in the new rollers, gently insert the door in the frame. Swing it down to ensure it is secured. If the new rollers are adjustable you can adjust them to give the door clearance in the areas it requires it.