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How to Repair a Sliding Patio Door

A variety of problems can make it difficult to operate sliding patio doors. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be easily fixed.

Cleaning your patio door sliding is the simplest way to fix it. Use a brush and some soapy water to wash the tracks. After that you can lubricate them to increase their mobility.

1. Dirty or Damaged Tracks

Dirt and debris in the track are the main reason for a sticky patio door. Sand and salt from winter roads, pine straw and bird droppings, pet hair and other nastiness could clog the work. This is why it's essential to clean and lubricate your sliding doors regularly.

Start by putting on some rubber gloves and a pair of safety glasses to shield your eyes. Then, vacuum the tracks with a shop vac or use a brush to remove the gunk. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray a small amount the solution onto your cleaning brushes, and scrub the track. Rinse the area, and dry it using paper towels to avoid scratching and harming the track and sill.

After the tracks have been cleaned then use a toothbrush to scrub the more stubborn areas that are stuck. You can also sand rough spots on the bottom tracks and then replenish the wheels with lubricant to ensure smooth operation.

Another reason for a squeaky door is the misalignment of the rollers, which can also be fixed by adjusting the height and positioning of the rollers. It is a good idea to replace the weather stripping that surrounds the door when you do this to ensure a secure fit and increase energy efficiency.

Leaks from the track is also a serious problem that can lead to mold growth and structural damage to your home. If the leak is restricted to one section of the track, you may be able fix it yourself by resealing the joint. If however, the issue is widespread, it's recommended to contact an expert to repair the patio door.

2. Broken or Torn Screen

A patio door that doesn't allow for a good air flow can make your home feel uncomfortable and uncomfortable. It can also be a perfect entry point for insects and mosquitoes. It is recommended to contact an expert immediately if you notice an unfinished screen or fog that has formed between the glass panes.

If you have an old screen that is hanging on your patio door, it is easy to replace it with a brand new screen. You can buy screen material in rolls that are pre-measured to fit a variety of door sizes. You can also purchase a complete screen repair kit that includes the screen, spline, and roller all in one package.

To install the new screen, start by locating a flat surface to work from and laying out your replacement material across it. Then, using your scissors, cut it to length to the point that about an inch or two of the screen overlaps on both sides of the frame. Then, using your utility blade remove the old spline as the excess screen.

Now you can lay down the new screen spline, starting at the bottom left corner the frame and work through the entire perimeter. Once the spline has been set, use the screen rolling tool to push it into the groove. Cut off any excess spline or screen with your utility blade making sure not to cut the inner frame of the window. You should also check the spline for distortions or ripples and adjust the screen as needed.

3. Leaking Seals

If you see water collecting or accumulating between the glass panes of your patio door, it is a sign that the seals and frame have lost their strength. This can cause mold and rot, not to mention increased energy bills due to drafts and air leakage.

Leaking seals are often caused by improperly installed caulking or flashing. It is crucial to employ an experienced professional who is able to install patio doors and ensure that the frame is caulked and flashed.

In addition to installing the flashing, you'll also ensure that any cracks or gaps are closed with caulking rated for use with the specific weather conditions. For instance, if you reside in a humid climate such as Ontario, you'll want to select a caulking product that will stand up well to humidity.

The shims that are placed under the door frame may also cause leaks. They are usually made of wood and help to keep the sheathing level with the framing, but if they're not set up properly, they could create gaps that allow moisture into your home.

Spraying the frame with a garden nozzle or hose is a good way to test seals. If you notice a mist coming in through these areas, you need to call a professional come take a closer look at the installation. You may only need to add a little caulking or change the shims. Whatever the case, addressing these issues quickly can prevent costly repairs and damages down the road. It is always better to repair your frame or patio door before it's too late to put off repairs.

4. Warped Frame

When wood is exposed outside forces such as a fluctuation of humidity, it can absorb or lose moisture which can cause warping. A frayed frame can make it difficult to operate the door and eventually cause damage or even failure. patio doors repairs near me is particularly relevant for doors that separate basements and damp garages from living areas.

A few minor repairs are able to generally correct a frame that is warped. Start by checking the frame to make sure that all bolts and screws are tightened and secured. Replace any missing or loose screws. Next, try replacing the hinge screws with longer ones that are 2 or more inches long. This will allow the screw to penetrate the wall framing instead of the door jamb, and pull the frame back into place.

You can also add shims. They are small pieces that can be placed on top of the hinges. This will allow you to tweak how the frame is set. Shims can aid in supporting the frame and spread the weight evenly over a wider area and prevent the frame from becoming more damaged over time.

For more severe frame warps, you might want to think about hiring a professional to repair. A professional will examine the frame in depth to determine the severity and offer a complete solution. They can also install additional bracing to reinforce the frame and keep it from sagging in the future. In the majority of cases, this is a more durable and cost-effective solution than simply purchasing new patio door components. If the frame has been significantly warped, you may need to replace the entire jamb of the door, not just the door itself.

5. Cosmetic Damage





Over time, patio doors will experience a fair amount of wear and wear and tear. Surface damage can cause your doors to look less than attractive and affect the aesthetic of your home. The good news: most cosmetic damage can be easily repaired with bonding fillers or paint. If the door has huge cracks or dents it is recommended to replace it rather than trying to repair it.

Like the seals around windows, a door's weatherstripping could be less effective with time. It can result in gaps that allow air from outside to enter your home, which can lead to higher energy bills. A professional in door repair can install new weatherstripping to decrease energy loss and improve insulation.

Moisture on the exterior of your door is never good news, but patio doors are particularly susceptible to it. This moisture can cause wood rot, which is costly and difficult to fix. The best way to safeguard your home is to have any water leaks repaired immediately by a certified professional.

Over time the patio door may be misaligned as a result of normal use or foundation changes. This can cause patio doors to jam, or make it difficult to open or close. A door repair technician can adjust the tracks and hinges to ensure smooth operation. They can also replace worn rollers and hinges in order to restore proper functionality.