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Patio Doors Repairs

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

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

Rollers that aren't aligned properly

Sometimes, a sliding patio door can become stuck and it's difficult to get it to open again. However in the absence of a underlying structural issue, the majority of doors that aren't cooperating can be fixed by a bit of cleaning and lubrication. The most frequent cause is dirt on the lower track, which can cause the rollers to rub against the track at the bottom and cause them to be misaligned. In this instance clean the track thoroughly before applying an even layer of lubricant so that the rollers are able to glide smoothly.

In addition, misalignment can be caused due to damage or wear in the hinges that connect the door panels which house a portion of the rollers; springs that are either extension or torsion and cables that raise the door. If damaged or worn out these components can cause problems with the alignment of the rollers, causing resistance, as well as the door being heavier or having higher energy bills. patio door repair and periodic professional inspections can ensure that these components work in harmony to keep your patio door functioning smoothly.

Set up a crow’s foot at one end and use a trammingstick to sweep across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process at the other end of the track, then divide by 2 to obtain a reading of the rollers' parallelism (Photo 1). This method isn't as exact as using a pi tape to measure the length directly. However, it's faster and more efficient than using a carpenter's level to measure each rail.

Another option to check the alignment of the rollers is to remove the head stop, which is a flat plate that is located on the door jamb at the bottom of the frame that blocks the rollers. This requires removing any removable grilles or shades and, when the door is heavy, you should seek assistance in this process. After removing the head stop, remove the head track adjustments screws by backing them with the screwdriver. After reinstalling your assembly by aligning each screw for adjustment to its access hole, then tapping it with the hammer.

Dirty or damaged tracks

Sliding patio door can act as a magnet for dirt, debris, and other elements. They are also susceptible to misalignment and other issues that may require professional assistance to fix. To prolong the life of your patio door finding and fixing these issues early on is essential.

One of the most common reasons for sliding patio doors to malfunction is dirty tracks. Over time, dirt and other debris such as food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris, can get trapped in the narrow spaces between your sliding door tracks which can cause it to become stuck or difficult to open. It is recommended to clean and vacuum the patio door tracks every month at a minimum to avoid these problems. Once you've removed all the debris that is loose then 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 difficult to clean, use a butter knife or toothbrush to clean these tiny areas.

In addition to cleaning the tracks, you should keep them lubricated to prevent sliding doors from squeezing or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we recommend adding silicone spray to your bottom track regularly. You can also use paraffin wax to increase the glide.

Another common issue that can impact your sliding patio door is a draft or air leak. This could happen if the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has worn out or has been damaged. This can lead to an opening between your sliding patio door and the frame. This allows air to enter and reduces the energy efficiency. Check that your weatherstripping is in good order and replace it when needed.

With consistent use your patio door will go through normal wear and tear over time. However these issues are usually not a sign 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 is cracked or warped

A warped or cracked patio door is an visual ailment and a potential security risk. This can also allow unwanted animals into your home and cause the temperature to fluctuate. These issues are simple to fix when caught early.

A quick glance at the glass will assist you in determining what kind of repairs are needed. Cracks in glass are usually caused by stress or impact. They can be a bit more difficult to fix than normal chipping on the surface. A professional may require re-leading the panel. This will require the removal of the glass, cleaning it, and replacing the broken pieces. To make sure that the new glass with the old, a professional requires accurate documentation of how the piece looked at the time.

Sometimes, a crack in the glass can be filled with epoxy made of plastic. It can be bought from hardware stores or the home improvement section of many stores. A professional will employ an soldering tool to melt the plastic then apply it on the crack. After it has cooled, the professional can remove any excess.

If the crack isn't too large it is possible to repair the glass using clear sealant. You can purchase this type of product from any hardware store. It is important to thoroughly dry the crack before applying sealant. This will prevent the repair from failing. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer or a different fan.

Weatherstripping that is damaged

A worn out weather stripping is not just ugly and a security hazard, but it also allows outside air to enter and cold or hot air to escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping on your home.

First, ensure you have all the tools and materials. This includes a new weather stripping kit or adhesive/caulk sealant (depending on the repair method), scissors, pliers, a utility knife, and some gloves or goggles that are protective. Then, remove sliding patio door repair stripping by cutting through the end piece and then pulling it up along with any screws for attachment when applicable. Remove any remaining pieces using pliers and a prybar.

If you decide to replace the weather stripping, begin by measuring the gap that is around the door frame. You can use the measurements to determine the amount of weather stripping you will require. Be sure to leave an extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you've got the right size, apply the backing and press the material against the frame. If you wish, use a small nail to secure the frame in place.

Finally apply wood filler to any divots or holes in the frame. Let the filler dry completely before applying any paint. It is best to use oil-based paints but latex will also work.

Also, ensure that you clean your tracks and sliding doors regularly. This will help prevent future issues such as sticking. Keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they stay practical, attractive, and energy-efficient. If you do this you can enjoy the great outdoors with confidence and save money at the same time! Enjoy your home improvements!