The Reasons Patio Doors Repairs Is More Risky Than You Think
Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors provide homeowners with natural light and fresh, air. They also boost the value of a home. Over time, however, they may develop problems that require immediate attention.
Understanding how patio doors work will help homeowners communicate better with contractors regarding issues they encounter. Here are some of the most common repairs to patio doors:.
Rollers that are not aligned
Sometimes an outdoor sliding door will get stuck and it's not easy to get the thing to open again. Most of these non-cooperative sliding patio doors can be fixed with some cleaning and oiling, unless a structural problem is present. The majority of the time dirt on the lower track can cause the track's rollers and bottom track to misalign. In this instance it is necessary to clean the track and apply a thin coating of lubricant, allowing the rollers move easily.
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, which lift the door. When they are damaged or worn out, could alter the alignment of rollers and cause resistance and other issues, such as a heavier feeling door or higher energy consumption. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections can help ensure that these components work in harmony to ensure that your patio door is operating smoothly.
To verify the alignment between rollers and alignment, place an eagle's foot at the one end of the track and employ a tramming tool to sweep across both rollers, observing the distance each travels. Repeat the process on the other end of the track, and then divide by 2 to get a measurement of the parallelism of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using a pi tape to measure the diameter directly. It is however, faster and easier than using a carpenter's or level to measure each rail.
Another option to check the alignment of rollers is to take off the head stop, which is a flat plate that is located on the jamb of the door at the bottom of the frame, which stops the rollers. This requires the removal of any removable grilles or shades, and in the event that the door is heavy, obtaining assistance with this step. After removing the head stop remove the head track adjusters screws by securing them with the screwdriver. After reinstalling the 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 magnet for dirt, debris, and other elements. They are also susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues that may require professional repair. In order to extend the life of your patio door, identifying and addressing these problems early on is essential.
Dirty tracks are one of the most frequent causes of problems with sliding patio doors. Over time, food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris can get trapped within the narrow spaces of the track of your sliding door, causing the door to snag or become difficult to open. To avoid these issues, it's recommended to clean and vacuum your patio door tracks at least once every month. You can clean your patio door tracks using a non-abrasive cleaning solution, or use warm soapy tap water after having removed any debris that is floating around. If you find that certain parts of the track are difficult to clean, you can use a butter knife or a toothbrush to scrub these tiny spaces.
It is also recommended to lubricate the tracks regularly to avoid sliding doors from becoming stuck or 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 to improve the glide.
Another issue that could affect your sliding patio door is draft or air leak. This could occur when the weather stripping of your sliding patio door is worn or is damaged. This could cause an opening between the frame and door which allows air enter and reduce the efficiency of energy. Make sure that your weatherstripping is in good condition and replace it when needed.
With regular use your patio door will go through normal wear and tear over time. However these issues are usually not indicative of a serious issue. In most cases, minor repairs can prolong the life of your patio door and ensure it is operating properly. Call a professional as quickly when you notice any issues to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is cracked or warped
A warped or cracked patio door is an visual ailment and a potential security risk. It could also allow in unwanted creatures and cause your home's temperature fluctuate dramatically. Thankfully, these problems are usually fixable if you catch them early.
A quick glance at the glass will help determine what kind of repair is needed. Generally, cracks in glass are due to stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than simple surface chips. A professional may need to re-lead the panel. This will require the removal of the glass, cleaning it, and replacing the broken pieces. This is why a professional will need accurate documentation of the glass as it looked originally to help match up the new glass with the original.
Sometimes cracks in the glass can be filled with epoxy made of plastic. This can be purchased from hardware stores or the home improvement section of a lot of stores. A professional will employ an soldering tool to melt the plastic then apply it to the crack. After the plastic has cooled down and the professional has removed any excess.
If the crack isn't too large it is possible to repair the glass by using clear sealant. This type of product can be found at any hardware store. However, it is crucial to thoroughly dry the cracked area prior to applying the sealant. This will prevent the repair from failing. You can accelerate the process by using a hair dryer or a different fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A worn out weather stripping is not only unsightly and a security hazard, but it also allows outside air to get in and cold or hot air escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping on your home.
Make sure you have the proper tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit, or caulk sealant or adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method), scissors, pliers, utility knife, and some gloves or goggles that are protective. Then, remove the old weather stripping by cutting through one end piece, then pulling it up along with any attaching screws when applicable. Remove any remaining pieces with the pliers and a prybar.
If you decide to replace the weather stripping, start by measuring the gap that is around your door frame. You can use the measurements to determine the length of weather stripping that you require. Make sure you leave a little extra length so that you can adjust the fit later. Once you've found the perfect size, apply the backing of the adhesive and press it against the frame. If patio door repair near me want you would like to use a small nail to secure the frame to the wall.
Apply wood filler to the frame to cover any divots or holes. Let the filler dry completely prior to painting. It is recommended to use oil-based paints, however, latex paint can also be used.
Last but not least, make sure you clean your sliding tracks and doors regularly. Making the effort to do this prevents sticking and other issues in the future. Making sure you are keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they are attractive, functional, and energy-efficient. By doing so, you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence and save money in the process! Happy fixing your home!