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Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors provide homeowners with sunlight and fresh, air. They also enhance the value of homes. But over time, they could create issues that must be addressed quickly.

Understanding how patio doors work can help homeowners communicate better with contractors about problems they face. Here are some of the most common repairs to patio doors:.

Misaligned rollers

Sometimes the sliding patio door gets stuck and it's not simple to get it open once more. However it's not a sign of a structural problem, most such doors that aren't cooperating can be fixed with some cleaning and lubrication. The most common culprit is dirt in the lower track, which could cause the rollers to be pushed against the track below and cause them to become misaligned. In this case it is necessary to clean the track and apply a light coat of lubricant so that the rollers glide easily.

It can also be caused by wear or damage to the hinges that connect the doors that house a portion of these rollers; springs (whether torsion or extensions) and cables that lift the door. When damaged or worn these components can cause problems with the alignment of the rollers, causing resistance and other problems such as a heavier door or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections can help ensure that these components are in sync to keep your patio door functioning smoothly.

To verify the alignment between rollers to determine alignment, set up a crow's foot at the one end of the track. Then employ a tramming tool to sweep across both rollers, recording the distance each travels. Repeat the process on the opposite side 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 length directly. It is however, faster and less cumbersome than using a carpenter's level to measure each rail.

patio door repairs to check the alignment of rollers is to take off the head stop, a flat plate that is located on the door jamb at bottom of the frame that stops the rollers. This requires removing any grilles or shades that are removable and, if the door is heavy, obtaining assistance with this step. After removing the head stop, remove the head track adjustments screws by backing them with the screwdriver. After reinstalling the assembly by aligning each adjustment screw with the hole that it is accessible through, and tapping it with a hammer.

Tracks that are damaged or dirty

The sliding patio door acts as a magnet for dirt, debris and other elements. They are also prone to misalignment, and other issues which may require professional assistance to fix. To extend the lifespan of your patio door identifying and addressing these problems in the early stages is crucial.





Dirty tracks are one of the most frequent causes of malfunctions in sliding patio doors. 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 and cause it to become stuck or difficult to open. To avoid problems like this it is recommended to clean and vacuum your patio door tracks once per month. You can clean your patio door tracks with a non-abrasive cleaner or warm soapy tap water once you've removed any debris that is floating around. If you notice that some parts of the track are difficult to clean, you can try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean out these small spaces.

It is also recommended to lubricate the tracks frequently to prevent sliding doors from becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you own Panda patio doors, it is recommended to add silicone spray to the bottom track on a regular basis. You can also rub paraffin wax along the track to improve glide.

Another issue that could affect your sliding patio door is air leak or draft. This can occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is damaged or worn out. This can result in a gap between the frame and door which allows air be able to enter and decrease the efficiency of your energy. Ensure that your weather stripping is in good working order and replace it as needed.

With regular use your patio door will go through normal wear and tear over time. These issues are not usually indicative of a major problem. Small repairs can prolong the lifespan of your patio door. Contact a professional as soon when you spot any issues to avoid costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is warped or cracked

A patio door that's damaged or sagging is a real eye-sore and can pose a security risk. It can also permit unwanted animals to get into your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. These issues are simple to fix when caught early.

A quick glance at the glass will help you determine what type of repairs are required. Cracks in glass are usually caused by impact or stress. They are more difficult to fix than simple cracks in the surface. A professional will probably need to re-lead the panel. This will require the removal of the glass clean it, and replacing the broken pieces. To make sure that the new glass with the original, professionals require exact documentation of how the piece looked at the time.

Sometimes cracks in the glass can be filled with plastic epoxy. It is available at a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will typically 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 clean any excess.

If the crack is small it is possible to repair the glass using clear sealant. This type of product is available at any hardware store. However, it is important 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 another fan.

Weatherstripping that is damaged

A damaged weather stripping is not only unsightly and a security risk but it also allows outside air to get in and cold or heat escape. A quick fix with a new piece of weather stripping could save you money while keeping your home more comfortable.

Make sure you have the proper tools and materials. You'll need a new weather-stripping kit or adhesive/caulk sealing agents (depending on the repair method you select), pliers and scissors, a utility knife as well as protective gloves or goggles and a replacement weather-stripping kit. Remove the old weather stripping, by cutting through the end piece and pulling it up with any screws attached, if necessary. Then remove any pieces left over using pliers or a pry bar.

If you decide to replace the weather stripping, begin by measuring the distance around the door frame. The measurements can be used to determine the amount of weather stripping you need. Make sure you leave a little extra length to adjust the size later. Once you've found the ideal size, place the backing and press the material against the frame. If desired, tack it in place using the nail or hammer.

Apply wood filler onto the frame to cover any holes or divots. Let the filler completely dry before painting. It is best to use oil-based paint, but latex will also work.

Lastly, make sure to clean your sliding doors and tracks regularly. This will help prevent future issues like sticking. Maintaining regular maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they remain functional, attractive, and energy-efficient. You will save money and enjoy the great outdoors while doing so. Enjoy your home renovation projects!