Why No One Cares About Patio Doors Repair
Patio Doors Repair - How to Fix a Wet Dog and Save Your Dog From Cold, Wet Feet
Patio doors provide a comfortable and comfortable transition between your indoor and outdoor space. They can also save you money on heating and cooling costs by keeping the air inside your home.
Over time the luster of your sliding glass or French door will fade. Fortunately, glass door repairs can keep them looking and working like new.
Weatherstripping
It's 5 am and you're taking your dog out for his morning routine when you step into an emerald-colored pool of water right by the sliding patio doors. You look around and realize that the rain of last night ripped through the patio door seals. Be prepared, this isn't going to be a five-minute project. However, with a little patience and some tools to fix the issue, you'll be able to do it and keep your dog safe from wet, cold feet in the process.
The key is to replace the weatherstripping which closes the gap between the door and the jamb, preventing moisture, pests, and drafts. It also helps keep your energy costs down. If you check your windows and door, you can tell whether the weatherstripping has to be replaced or not.
There are many kinds of weatherstripping, such as felt, open-cell foam and thermoplastic rubber, as well as metals such as bronze or copper. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. Foam with open cells and felt are inexpensive, but they tend to be ineffective and noticeable at blocking airflow. Vinyl is more expensive, however, it's more durable and resistant to moisture. Rubber is a great material for high-traffic areas because it won't wear out as quickly.
To install new weatherstripping you must first remove the patio doors from the frame using a screwdriver to loosen the screws that adjust the rollers. Then using a flathead screwdriver remove the plugs that keep the weatherstripping in place at the bottom of the frame. Then, pull out the weatherstripping that was previously in place and take off any remaining adhesive from the frame's bottom. Then, cut the new to the proper length, then peel off the plastic strip at one end, and then apply it using a putty-blade to the jamb.
When you're done, reinstall the door and readjust the roller screws so that the door is 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 not a more secure seal than weatherstripping but should be able to last for a period of time.
Locks and Handles
Patio door handles and locks are essential to the security of your home. Over time they can be damaged or worn out and need to be replaced. The spindle connecting the interior and exterior handles can also need to be changed.
To replace a handle on a patio door, you must remove the previous one first by taking off any screws that hold it in the place. After you have removed the old handle, use a level and ensure that the patio door is straight. If the door isn't in a straight line, it could cause problems for the lock. This could cause problems in the future.
Once you have the new handle installed, close and open it a few times to ensure it functions correctly. If you encounter any issues you are having trouble, contact the manufacturer or a hardware expert for assistance. It is also a good idea to lubricate the lock mechanism using a silicone-based lubricant in order to avoid future issues.
The most popular door lock for patio doors is a mortise latch. It is typically made of steel and fits inside a pocket which has been cut into the door frame. These locks are commonly used on sliding wood and aluminum doors. When replacing a mortise lock, it is essential to take a few measurements before ordering a new one. You'll need to know the location of mounting holes and the position in the lock of the keyway.
Certain patio door handles come with an internal locking mechanism integrated into the handle. The handles have a rectangular key cylinder which is inserted into the handle's keyway. If you have this type of patio door both the outside and inside locks are combined into one. This type of patio doors are typically found on sliding aluminum doors.
If the latch on your patio door isn't able to stay closed, the lock tongue may not be properly catching the hasp. Another possibility is that your sliding door isn't aligned to the jamb's side. Open the door an inch, and spot it against the frame. This will reveal the gap between the jamb and the door. If there is a gap, reposition the rollers to the bottom left or the right side of the patio so that it is exactly parallel to the jamb.
Misalignment
Over time the tracks and rollers of the door could lose their alignment. This can cause the doors to become stuck or difficult to move. It can also allow cold air and drafts to enter your home, which could reduce energy efficiency. Fortunately, misalignment is simple to fix and stop. Applying a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks and rollers will allow your doors to move smoothly once again. This is a good option in order to ensure that your doors are operating at their best.
Another issue that is common to patio doors is a torn screen, which is a nuisance or even a safety risk. In addition, it can stop doors from opening and closing properly, which can lead to loss of energy. In some cases the screen can be repaired, but in other cases the door must be replaced. If you're experiencing a tear in your screen, clean it thoroughly and be sure not to turn the door handles the wrong way when closing and opening.
Hinges can become looser over time due to frequent use or normal wear. Regularly tightening screws can aid in resolving this issue and ensure that your doors close securely. This is a simple task that can be done by yourself, however if you're not sure about it, seek out an expert to make sure your doors are correctly aligned and secure.
It's recommended to clean your patio doors track and rollers. A simple brushing or vacuuming will remove dirt and dust that could hinder the smooth operation of your patio doors. You can also employ an instrument specifically designed to clear away rust or dirt that has accumulated. The inspection and tightening of the screws on the hinges may aid in alignment but in some cases, it's best to replace them all together to ensure a strong, solid seal.
The performance and alignment of your patio doors may be affected if the frames are warped or sagging. The shifting or warping could be caused by foundation issues, but it could also result from poor installation or frequent use. A professional can repair or replace the frame of your patio door and ensure it's properly aligned, allowing it to perform at its best.
Rollers
The sliding patio doors are a great way to bring the outdoors in and let in plenty of light, however they need some care to ensure they are moving smoothly. If you notice that you have to really yank on the handle to get the door to move, or it just doesn't slide as easily as it used to then the problem could be the rollers. In time, the lower track can become clogged with dirt, dirt, and sand. This makes it difficult for rollers to move. You can try cleaning it by spraying it with a lubricant such as 2Slick.
If the tracks have been cleaned but the rollers aren't moving freely, then it is time to replace them. There are a variety of replacement rollers to match your door and the type of track you have. You can buy these at most hardware stores however, you will require someone to help you remove and reinstall the rollers. Before you order replacements, make sure to take an image of the roller assembly placed in the door frame so experts can identify the exact model and type you require. They can also look out for features that can be identified, such as dimples or bumps or cutouts, flared edges or cutouts to narrow down your alternatives for replacement.
Once the rollers are replaced, you'll need to reinstall the sliding door back into its frame. Get help on this one since the door is very heavy. Make sure there are any screws holding the track to either side of the frame. If they are check that they're loose enough for the bottom of door to fall into the channel that is above the frame. Remove the screen door from the opening. Make sure it is free of track rollers, track and track.
After putting in the new rollers, gently place the door into the frame. Swing it down to ensure it is secured. If the rollers are adjustable you can adjust them so that the door is able to be opened.