7 Things You Didn't Know About Patio Doors Repairs
Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors provide homeowners with sunlight and fresh, clean air. They also boost the value of a house. Over time, however they could develop issues that require immediate attention.
Understanding how patio doors operate can help homeowners communicate better with contractors regarding issues they face. Here are some of the most frequent problems with patio doors:
Rollers that are not aligned
Sometimes, a sliding patio door gets stuck and it's not simple to get the thing to open again. But in the absence of a underlying structural problem, most such doors that aren't cooperating could be repaired with a little cleaning and lubrication. The most frequent cause is dirt on the lower track, which may cause the rollers to rub against the bottom track and cause them to misalign. In this situation clean the track thoroughly and apply an even layer of lubricant so that the rollers are able to glide smoothly.
Misalignment can also occur due to damage or wear in the hinges that connect the door panels, which house some of the rollers; springs that are either extension or torsion and cables that raise the door. If damaged or worn out, these components can affect the alignment of the rollers, leading to resistance, as well as the door being heavier or having higher energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these elements are in good working order to keep your patio doors functioning smoothly.
Create a crow's foot at one end and use the tramming stick to sweep across the rollers. Take replacement patio door Repair My Windows And Doors of the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process at the other end of the track, and then divide by two to get the alignment of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using a pi tape to measure the diameter directly. However, it's quicker and easier than using a carpenter's level to measure the length of each rail.
Another option to check the alignment of rollers is to take off the head stop, which is a flat plate on the jamb of the door at the bottom of the frame that stops the rollers. This requires the removal of any removable grilles or shades, and if the door is heavy, obtaining help with this step. After removing the head stop, remove the head track adjustments screws by backing them with the screwdriver. After reinstalling the assembly, align each screw for adjustment to its access hole, then tapping it with a hammer.
Tracks that are damaged or dirty
The sliding patio door acts as an attraction for dirt, debris and other elements. They also are susceptible to misalignment, and other issues that require professional repair. To extend the life of your patio door, the identification and resolution of these issues early on is essential.
Dirty tracks are among the most common causes of malfunctions in sliding patio doors. Over time,, food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris can become trapped in the tiny spaces of the track of your sliding door and cause the door to stick or become difficult to open. To avoid this, it's recommended to sweep and clean your patio door tracks once per month. You can clean your patio door tracks using a non-abrasive cleaner or warm soapy tap water after having removed any loose debris. If you notice that certain areas of the track are harder to clean, try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean out these tiny spaces.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, you should keep them lubricated to prevent sliding doors from squeezing or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest adding silicone spray to your bottom track on a regular basis. You can also rub paraffin wax on the track to enhance glide.
Another issue that could affect your sliding patio door is a draft or air leak. This can occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is worn out or damaged. This could cause gaps between your sliding patio door and the frame. This allows air to enter and reduces the energy efficiency. Make sure your weatherstripping is in good condition and replace it when needed.
Over time your patio door will see normal wear and tear. However, these issues are typically not indicative of a significant issue. In the majority of cases, minor repairs can prolong the lifespan of your patio door and keep it running smoothly. Contact a professional to address any issues as soon as they occur to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is damaged or warped
A patio door that is cracked or warped can be a real eyesore, and it could pose a security risk. This could also allow unwanted animals into your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. These problems are easy to fix if caught early.
A quick glance at the glass can aid in determining what kind of repairs are needed. Usually, cracks in glass are caused by stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than chips on the surface. A professional will likely need to re-lead the panel. This will mean removal of the glass and replacing any broken pieces. To do this, a professional will need accurate documentation of the glass in its original form to help match up the new glass to the old.
Sometimes cracks in glass can be filled with plastic epoxy. It is available at a hardware store, or in the home improvement section. A professional will use a soldering tool to melt the plastic and then apply it on the crack. After it has been cooled, the professional will clean any excess.
If the crack in the glass isn't too big, there might be a chance of repairing it using clear sealant. You can purchase this type of product at any hardware store. It is essential to thoroughly dry the damaged area prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or another fan can be used to expedite this process.
Weatherstripping that is damaged
A damaged weather stripping is not just ugly and a security risk, but it also allows outside air to enter and heat or cold to escape. A simple fix using a new piece of weather stripping will save you money while keeping your home more comfortable.
Make sure you have the appropriate tools and materials. You will need an additional weather-stripping kit, or adhesive/caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you decide to use) as well as pliers and scissors, a utility knife, protective goggles or gloves, and a replacement weather-stripping kit. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting through the end piece and pulling it up using any screws that are attached, if applicable. Then take care to remove any pieces left over using pliers or a pry bar.
Begin by measuring the space around the door frame. Make use of the measurements to determine what size weather stripping you will need. Be sure to leave a little extra length so you can adjust the size later. Once you have the correct size you can apply the backing with adhesive and press it against the frame. If you wish, nail it to the frame with small nails or hammers.
Apply wood filler to the frame to fill any divots or holes. Let the filler dry completely before painting. It is recommended to apply oil-based paint on 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 regularly. This will avoid future issues like sticking. Repairing and maintaining your patio doors will ensure they remain attractive, functional and energy efficient. By doing so, you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence, and save money at the same time! Happy fixing your home!