Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors give homeowners fresh air and light and can boost the value of a home. However, with time, they may develop issues that need to be addressed swiftly.
Understanding how patio doors work will help homeowners communicate with contractors about the issues they face. Here are some of the most common repairs to patio doors:.
Rollers that aren't aligned properly
It's not always easy to open a sliding patio door. However it's not a sign of a structural issue, most uncooperative doors can be easily fixed with some cleaning and lubrication. The most frequent cause is dirt in the lower track, which can cause the rollers to rub against the track at the bottom and cause them to become misaligned. In this situation clean the track thoroughly before applying a thin layer of lubricant to allow the rollers to glide smoothly.
The misalignment could also be due to wear or damage in the hinges connecting the door panels, which house some of the rollers; springs either torsion or extension and cables that raise the door. When these components are damaged or worn, can alter the alignment of rollers and cause resistance, as well as other issues, such as a heavier feeling door or increased energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections will ensure that these elements are in good working order to ensure that your patio doors are operating smoothly.
Set up a crow’s foot at one end, and use a trammingstick to sweep across the rollers. Take note of the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process on the opposite end of the track, and divide by 2 to obtain a reading of the parallelism of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using a pi tape to measure the diameter directly. However, it's faster and easier than using a carpenter's level to measure the length of each rail.
Another option for checking the alignment of the rollers is to remove 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. If the door is heavy you may need help removal of the removable grilles and shades. After removing patio door repair near me RepairMyWindowsAndDoors stop remove the head track adjusters screws by backing them with a screwdriver. After reinstalling the assembly and aligning each roller adjustment screw to the hole that it is accessible through, and tapping it with the hammer.
Tracks that are dirty or damaged
Patio doors that slide can serve as magnets for dirt, debris and other elements from outside. They are also prone to misalignment and other issues that require professional assistance to fix. In order to extend the lifespan of your patio door identifying and addressing these problems promptly is crucial.
One of the main reasons for sliding patio doors to fail is filthy tracks. Over time dirt and other particles such as pet hair, food crumbs and yard debris can be trapped in the small spaces between your sliding door tracks which can cause it to become stuck or difficult to open. To avoid this it is recommended to clean and vacuum your patio door tracks at least once every month. After you've cleared all the loose debris, you can use a non-abrasive home cleaning solution or warm soapy water to wipe down your patio door tracks. If you notice that some parts of the track are more difficult to clean, you can try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean these small spaces.
It is also important to grease the tracks on a regular basis to prevent your sliding door becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we recommend adding silicone spray to your bottom track regularly. You can also apply paraffin wax to increase the glide.
Another issue that could impact your sliding patio door is draft or air leak. This could happen when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is damaged or worn out. This can result in an opening between the door and frame that allows air to enter and reduce the efficiency of your energy. Make sure your weatherstripping is in good condition and replace it if needed.
Over time your patio door could be subject to normal wear and tear. However these issues are usually not indicators of a major problem. Minor repairs can extend the lifespan of your patio door. Call a professional as quickly when you notice any issues to avoid future costly repairs.
Glass that has cracked or warped
A patio door that's damaged or cracked could be a major eye-sore, and it could pose a security risk. It can also let in unwanted animals and cause your home temperature fluctuate wildly. Thankfully, these problems are usually simple to fix if you catch them early.
A quick glance at the glass will assist you in determining what kind of repairs are needed. Generally, cracks in the glass are due to stress or impact. They can be a bit more difficult to repair than normal chipping on the surface. A professional will likely need to re-lead the panel. This will require removing the glass, cleaning and replacing any broken pieces. This is why an expert will require precise documentation of the glass as it looked originally to ensure that the new glass with the old one.
Sometimes cracks in glass can be filled with plastic epoxy. You can buy this at a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will use an soldering tool to melt the plastic then apply it on the crack. After it has been cool, the professional can wipe away any excess.
If the crack in the glass is small, there may be a possibility of repairing it with clear sealant. This type of product can be found at any hardware store. It is crucial to dry the crack thoroughly before applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer or a different fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A weather stripping that's worn-out not only looks bad and poses a security threat, but also allows outside air and heat out. A simple fix using a new piece of weather stripping can save you money and make 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 agents (depending on the repair method you select) as well as pliers and scissors, a utility knife as well as protective gloves or goggles and a replacement weather-stripping kit. Remove the weather stripping that was used previously by cutting through an end piece and pulling it up with any screws attached if necessary. Remove any remaining pieces using pliers and a plier.
Start by measuring the gap around the door frame. The measurements can be used to determine the length of weather stripping you require. Make sure you leave extra length for later fine-tuning. Once you've found the perfect size you can apply the backing of the adhesive and press it against the frame. If desired, tack it to the frame with a small nail or hammer.
Apply wood filler onto the frame to cover any holes or divots. Allow the filler to dry completely before applying paint. It is best to use oil-based paints however, latex can also be used.
Finally, be sure to clean your sliding doors and tracks regularly. Making the effort to do this will prevent sticking and other problems down the road. Keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors ensures they are functional, attractive, and energy-efficient. You can save money and enjoy the great outdoors while doing so. Enjoy your home improvements!