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Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors offer homeowners natural sunlight and fresh air and enhance the value of a house. Over time, however, they may develop problems that require immediate attention.

Understanding how patio doors function can help homeowners communicate better with contractors regarding issues they encounter. Here are some of the most frequent patio door problems:

Rollers that are not aligned

Sometimes, a sliding patio door will get stuck and it's not simple to get it to open once more. But in the absence of a underlying structural issue, most doors that aren't cooperating could be repaired with a little cleaning and lubrication. The most common culprit is dirt in the lower track, which may cause the rollers to rub against the track at the bottom and cause them to be misaligned. In this case it is necessary to clean the track and apply a light coating of lubricant, allowing the rollers glide easily.

The misalignment could also be because of 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 problems, such as the door feeling heavier or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and regular professional inspections can ensure that these components are in sync to ensure that your patio door is operating smoothly.

To check roller-to-roller alignment, set up an eagle's foot at one end of the track. use a tramming stick to sweep across both rollers, recording the distance they travel. Repeat the process at the opposite end 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 a pi tape to measure diameter directly. However, it's faster and easier than using a carpenter's level to measure each rail.

Another method of checking the alignment of rollers is to take off the head stop, which is a flat plate that is located on the door jamb at the bottom of the frame, which stops the rollers. This requires removing any grilles or shades that are removable and, when the door is heavy, getting assistance with this step. After removing the head stop remove the head track adjusters screws by backing them up with the screwdriver. After reinstalling your assembly and aligning each adjustment screw with its access hole, then tapping it with the Hammer.

Dirty or damaged tracks

Patio doors that slide open are magnets for debris, dirt and other elements outside. They also are susceptible to misalignment and other issues which may require professional assistance to fix. To prolong the life of your patio doors, it's crucial to recognize and fix these issues as soon as you can.

One of the most common causes for sliding patio doors to malfunction is filthy tracks. Over time, dirt and other debris such as pet hair, food crumbs and yard debris can be trapped in the small spaces between the tracks of your sliding doors which can cause it to get stuck or difficult to open. To avoid problems like this it is recommended to clean and vacuum your patio door tracks once per month. Once you've removed all the debris that is loose then you can use a non-abrasive household cleaning solution or warm soapy water to clean down your patio door tracks. If you notice that certain 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.

In addition to cleaning the tracks, you must lubricate them regularly to prevent your sliding door from becoming stuck or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we recommend adding silicone spray to the bottom track regularly. You can also apply paraffin wax along the track to enhance the glide.

Another issue that could impact your sliding patio door is draft or air leak. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has damaged or worn out. This can cause a gap between your sliding patio door and the frame. This lets air in and reduces the energy efficiency. Make sure your weatherstripping is in good condition and replace it if needed.

Over time, your patio door may experience normal wear. However, these issues are typically not a sign of a major problem. Small repairs can prolong the life of your patio door. Get in touch with a professional as soon as you notice any problems to avoid costly repairs.

Glass that is warped or cracked

A patio door that's damaged or cracked could be a major eye-sore and can pose an security risk. It also allows in unwanted animals and cause your home temperature fluctuate wildly. These problems are easy to fix when discovered early.





A quick glance at the glass will determine the type of repair is needed. Generally, cracks in glass are due to stress or impact. These are more difficult to repair than surface chips. A professional will probably have to re-lead the panel. This will require 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 aid in comparing the new glass to the old.

Sometimes, a crack in the glass can be filled with epoxy made of plastic. You can purchase this at a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will typically use an iron soldering to melt the plastic, then apply it to the crack in the glass. After it has been cool, the professional can remove any excess.

If the crack is not too big it might be possible to repair the glass with clear sealant. This kind of product can be found at any hardware store. However, it is crucial to thoroughly dry the damaged area before applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or any other fan can be used to speed up this procedure.

Weatherstripping patio door repairs is damaged

A damaged weather stripping is not just ugly and a security risk but it also allows air from outside to seep in and cold or heat to escape. A quick fix with a new piece of weather stripping will save you money and make your home more comfortable.

Ensure you have the right tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit or caulk sealant adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method) and scissors, pliers, a utility knife, and some gloves or protective goggles. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting one end piece and pulling it up, along with any screws that attach it, if applicable. Then remove any pieces still left over with pliers or a pry bar.

Start by measuring the gap around the door frame. Use the measurements to determine what size weather stripping you require. Be sure to leave a little bit of extra length so you can adjust the fit later. Once you've found the ideal size, apply the backing and press the material against the frame. If desired you would like to use a small nail to secure the frame to the wall.

Finally apply some wood filler to any holes or divots in the frame. Let the filler dry completely before painting. It is recommended to apply oil-based paint on the filler, however latex paint can also be used.

Last but not least, clean your sliding door tracks and doors regularly. This will avoid future issues such as sticking. Making sure you are keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they are attractive, functional, and energy-efficient. You'll save money and enjoy the great outdoors while doing so. Enjoy your home improvements!