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How to Repair a Sliding Patio Door

Many issues can make it difficult to operate sliding patio doors. Luckily, most of these issues can be easily fixed.

The easiest way to fix your sliding patio door is by cleaning it. Use a brush along with some soapy water to wash the tracks. Then, you can apply lubrication to the tracks to improve their performance.

1. Dirty or Damaged Tracks

Dirt and debris in the track are the main reason for sticky patio doors. Sand and salt from winter roads, pine straw and bird droppings, pet hair and other nastiness can gum up the works. This is why it's important to clean and lubricate your sliding doors on a regular basis.

Start by putting on some rubber gloves and safety glasses to shield your eyes. Utilize a shop vacuum cleaner or a brush to get rid of any gunk that is loose. Next, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in spray bottles. Spray a small amount of the solution onto your cleaning brushes and scrub the track and sill. Rinse and dry the area using paper towels. This will prevent scratching and further damage to the sill and track.

When the tracks are clean you can take your toothbrush and go in there to scrub the tougher areas that are stuck. You can also rub rough spots onto the bottom tracks. You can then replenish the wheels with lubricant to ensure smooth operation.

Another cause of a sticky door is misaligned rollers and can be corrected by altering the height and positioning of the rollers. When you replace the weather stripping, it's a great idea to do so to ensure a snug fitting and increase energy efficiency.

Leaking tracks can be an issue that could cause to mold growth and structural damage in your home. If patio door repairs near me is confined to a particular section of the track, you might be able to repair it yourself by resealing the joint. However, if the problem is widespread, it's best to seek out an expert to repair the patio door.

2. Broken or Torn Screen

A patio door that doesn't allow for efficient airflow can make your home feel stale and uncomfortable. It can also create a cozy entryway for pests like mosquitoes and flies. It is recommended to contact a professional as soon as you notice the screen is damaged or there is a fog between the glass panes.

If you have an old screen on your sliding patio door, it's simple to replace it with a brand new screen. Screen material is available in rolls that are already measured to fit the majority of door sizes. You can also buy a complete screen repair kit that includes the screen, spline and roller in one package.

To install the new screen, begin by locating a solid surface to work from and then lay out your replacement material across it. Cut the screen to the length you want, so that it overlaps the frame on both sides by approximately 1 inch. Then using your utility knife, remove the old spline as any screen that is not needed.

It is now possible to lay the new screen spline beginning at the bottom left corner of the frame. Start by moving it to the perimeter. Once the spline is put in place, use your screen rolling tool to push it into the groove. Cut off any excess spline or screen with your utility blade, taking care not to cut the inside frame of the window. Check the spline to see whether there are any distortions or ripples. Adjust the screen as needed.

3. Leaking Seals

If you notice water collecting or accumulating between the glass panes of your patio door, this is an indication that the frame and seals have lost their integrity. This can lead mold and decay, as well as higher energy bills due to drafts and air leakage.

Incorrectly installed flashing and caulking can result in leaky seals. It is crucial to employ an experienced professional who can install patio doors and ensure that the frame is caulked and flashed.





You'll want to fill in any cracks or gaps with caulking rated for your particular kind of weather. For example, if you live in a humid climate like Ontario, you'll want to select a caulking product that can stand up to humidity.

Another reason for leaky seals is when the shims underneath the door frame are not properly installed. They are usually made of wood and help to keep the sheathing in line with the framing, but if they're not set up correctly, they can create an opening that allows moisture to enter your home.

Spraying the frame with a garden nozzle or hose is a great way to test seals. If you see an airborne mist escaping these areas, call an expert who will visit and conduct a more thorough inspection of the installation. It's possible to add a little caulking or change the shims. Either way, addressing these issues quickly will avoid costly repairs and further damage later on. It is always better to repair your frame or patio door before it's too late to wait.

4. Warped Frame

If wood is exposed to external forces, such as a change of humidity, it may absorb or lose moisture, which could lead to warping. If a sagging frame begins to develop it makes the door more difficult to operate and ultimately cause destruction or even total failure. This is particularly relevant for doors that separate basements and garages that are damp from living spaces.

A warped frame can usually be corrected with some minor repairs. Start by examining the frame to ensure that all bolts and screws are tight and secure. Replace any missing or loose screws. Next, try replacing the hinge screws with larger ones that are at least 2 inches long. This will allow the screw to get into the wall framing, not the door jamb, and pull the frame back into position.

You can also add shims. These are thin pieces that can be placed in front of the hinges. This will allow you to fine-tune how the frame is set. Shims can assist in supporting the frame and spread the weight evenly over a wider area, which will prevent the frame from becoming more stretched over time.

For more severe frame warps you may want to consider hiring a professional for repair. A professional will examine the frame thoroughly to determine the extent of the problem and offer a comprehensive solution. They can also add additional bracing to strengthen the frame and help keep it from sliding in the future. In most instances this is a much more durable and cost-effective solution than simply purchasing new patio door components. If the frame has severely damaged, you might require replacing the entire jamb of the door, not just the door itself.

5. Cosmetic Damage

Over time, your patio doors can experience the effects of wear and tear. Surface damage can cause your doors to look less than attractive and affect the aesthetic of your home. The good news is that the majority of cosmetic damage can be easily repaired using bonding fillers or paint. However, if the door has significant dents or cracks it is recommended to replace it rather than trying to repair it.

Like the seals around windows, a door's weatherstripping can be less effective with time. It could result in gaps that allow air from outside to infiltrate your home, which leads to higher energy costs. A professional in door repair can install new weatherstripping in order to reduce energy loss and increase insulation.

Moisture on the outside of your door is never good news however patio doors are especially vulnerable to it. The moisture could cause wood rot, which is costly and difficult to repair. The best way to safeguard your home is to have any water leaks immediately replaced by a certified professional.

A patio door can be misaligned with time due to foundation changes or the normal use. This can cause patio doors to jam, or make it difficult to open or close. Technicians can adjust tracks and hinges to ensure smooth operation. They can also replace worn-out hinges and rollers to restore functionality.