Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors offer homeowners natural light and fresh air, and they increase a home's value. But with time, they may cause issues that must be addressed swiftly.
Understanding how patio doors work will help homeowners communicate better with contractors about issues they encounter. Here are some common patio door repairs:.
Rollers that are not aligned
Sometimes, a sliding patio door can become stuck and it's difficult to get it to open once more. Most of these sluggish sliding patio doors can be fixed by a little oiling and cleaning, unless a structural issue is present. Most often dirt in the lower track can cause the track's rollers and bottom track to be misaligned. In this situation, clean the track thoroughly and apply the lubricant in a thin layer so that the rollers are able to glide easily.
The misalignment can be caused by damage or wear to the hinges that connect the doors that house a portion of these rollers; springs (whether torsion or extensions); and cables which lift the door. When these components are damaged or worn out, could affect roller alignment and cause resistance and other problems, such as doors that feel heavier or a rise in energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these elements are in good working order to keep your patio doors operating smoothly.
Create a crow's foot at one end and use a trammingstick to sweep across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process at the opposite side of the track, then divide by 2 to obtain a reading of the parallelism of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as precise as using pi tape to measure the diameter directly. However, it's faster and less cumbersome than using a carpenter's level to measure each rail.
You can also verify the alignment of the rollers by removing the head stop. It is an aluminum plate located in the bottom of your door jamb. It stops the rollers. If the door is very heavy, you may need help removal of the removable grilles and shades. After the head stop has been removed, carefully remove the screws that adjust the head track by pushing them out using an screwdriver. Reinstall the assembly by aligning each roller adjustment screw with its access hole and tapping it in with the hammer.
Dirty or damaged tracks
Patio doors that slide can serve as magnets for dirt, debris and other elements outside. upvc patio door repairs near me can also be susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues that may require professional repair. In order to extend 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 dirty tracks. Over time, dirt, food particles, pet hair and yard debris can get trapped in the tiny spaces of your door's track and cause the door to snag or become difficult to open. To avoid problems like this, it's recommended to clean and vacuum your patio door tracks at least once every month. Once you've removed all the loose debris then you can use a non-abrasive home cleaning solution or warm soapy water to clean down your patio door tracks. If you notice that certain parts of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or toothbrush to clean these tiny areas.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, you should be sure to lubricate them frequently to avoid sliding doors from squeezing or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest applying silicone spray to the bottom track regularly. You can also apply paraffin wax along the track to increase glide.
A draft or a leak of air can also affect your sliding patio doors. This could happen if the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has worn out or is damaged. This can cause gaps between the door and frame, which allows air to come in and reduces the efficiency of your energy. Make sure your weatherstripping is in good condition and replace it if needed.
If you use it regularly your patio door will show normal wear and tear over time. However these issues are usually not a sign of a serious issue. In most cases, small repairs can prolong the lifespan of your patio door and ensure that it is running smoothly. Contact a professional as soon when you spot any issues to avoid costly repairs.
Glass that is damaged or warped
A warped or cracked patio door is a serious visual ailment and a potential security risk. This can also allow unwanted animals into your home and cause the temperature to fluctuate. These issues are simple to fix if discovered early.
A quick glance at the glass will help you determine what type of repairs are needed. Glass cracks are typically caused by stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than chips that are on the surface. A professional may have to reconnect this panel. This will require removing the glass, cleaning it, and replacing the broken pieces. To do this, an expert will require precise documentation of the glass as it was originally viewed to help match up the new glass with the old one.
Sometimes cracks in glass can be filled with epoxy made of plastic. It is available at a hardware store, or in the home improvement section. A professional will usually use the soldering iron to melt the plastic, then apply it to the crack in the glass. After it has been cool, the professional can wipe away any excess.
If the crack in the glass isn't too big, there might be a chance of repairing it using clear sealant. This type of product is available at any hardware store. However, it is crucial to thoroughly dry the cracked area prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. You can accelerate the process by using a hair dryer or other fan.
Weatherstripping that is damaged
A weather stripping that is worn out is not just unsightly and a security risk but it also allows outside air to seep in and cold or heat to escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping on your home.
First, ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit or caulk sealant adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method) tools, pliers, scissors, a utility knife, as well as gloves or protective goggles. 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 pliers and a plier.
If you decide to replace the weather stripping, start by measuring the gap around your door frame. You can use the measurements to determine the amount of weather stripping that you will require. Be sure to leave a little extra length so you can fine-tune the fit later. Once you have the right size then apply the backing of the adhesive and press it against the frame. If you want, secure it to the frame with the nail or hammer.
Finally, apply some wood filler to any divots or holes in the frame. Let the filler dry completely before painting. Ideally, it's best to apply oil-based paint on the filler, but latex paint will work too.
Lastly, make sure to clean your tracks and sliding doors regularly. Taking the time to do this can prevent the doors from sticking and other issues in the future. Repairing and maintaining your patio doors will ensure they remain attractive, functional and energy-efficient. By doing so you will be able to enjoy the outdoors with confidence, and save money in the process! Happy home-fixing!