Why-Repair-Patio-Door-Should-Be-Your-Next-Big-Obsession-v

How to Repair a Sliding Patio Door

Patio doors that slide can become difficult to operate due to a range of problems. The majority of these issues are easily fixable.

The most effective method to repair your sliding patio door is to clean it. Use a brush and some soapy water to wash the tracks. Then, you can lubricate them to increase their mobility.

1. Tracks that are damaged or dirty

One of the most common causes of a squeaky or sticky patio door is dirt and debris that has accumulated in the track. Bird droppings, pine straw, sand and salt from winter roads and other things can clog up the track. It is important to clean and lubricate your sliding doors.

Start by putting on rubber gloves and a pair of safety goggles to protect your eyes. Use a shop vacuum or a brush to clean any loose gunk. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in spray bottles. Spray a small coating of the solution onto your cleaning brushes and scrub the track and sill. Rinse the area and then dry it with paper towels to avoid scratching or further damage to the track and sill.

After the tracks have been cleaned using a toothbrush, scrub the areas that are stuck. You can also smooth rough spots on the bottom tracks, and then apply lubrication to the wheels to ensure smooth operation.

A misaligned door can also be caused by misaligned rollers. This can be fixed by adjusting the rollers' height and positioning. When you replace the weather stripping, it's an excellent idea to do so to ensure a secure fitting and improve energy efficiency.

Leaking tracks can be an issue that can lead to structural damage and mold growth in your home. If the leak is restricted to a specific section of the track, you may be able to repair it yourself by resealing the joint. However, if the problem is extensive, it's best to contact an expert to fix the patio door.

2. Broken or damaged screen

A patio door that isn't designed for efficient airflow can make your home feel stuffy and uncomfortable. It can also be a perfect entry point for pests and mosquitoes. It is important to call a professional when you spot the screen is damaged or there is a fog between the glass panes.

If you have an old screen on your patio door, it is easy to replace it with a new screen. Screen material is available in rolls that have been already measured to fit the majority of door sizes. It's also available as complete screen repair kits that contain the screen along with spline, roller and spline all in one package.

The process of installing a new screen begins by laying the replacement material on a flat surface. Then, using your scissors, cut it into lengths so that about an inch or two of the screen overlaps on each side of the frame. Then using your utility knife remove the old spline, as well the excess screen.

Now you can lay the new screen spline, starting at the lower left corner of the frame and working your way around the perimeter. Once the spline is in place, run the screen rolling tool across it several times, pushing it in the groove of the frame. Then trim any excess screen and spline with your utility knife, making sure not to cut through the inside of the window frame. You should also examine the spline for any distortions or ripples, and then adjust the screen as necessary.

3. Leaking Seals

If you see water getting trapped or pooling between the glass panes of your patio door, it is an indication that the seals and frame have lost their integrity. This can lead mold and decay, and increased energy bills because of drafts and air leakage.

Leaking seals are often caused by poorly installed caulking or flashing. It is crucial to employ an experienced professional who will install patio doors and make sure that the frame is properly caulked and flashed.

In addition to ensuring that you install the flashing, you'll also be sure that any cracks or gaps are sealed with caulking that's approved for use in the specific weather conditions. If you live in an area with a humid climate, like Ontario or the province of Ontario, you'll want to select a caulking product that can withstand moisture.

Another common cause of leaking seals is when the shims under the door frame are not installed correctly. They are usually made of wood and help keep the sheathing level with the framing, however if they're not placed correctly, they can create a gap that allows moisture to enter your home.

One way to test the seals by spraying the frame using a hose or garden nozzle. If you notice the presence of a mist in these areas, contact a professional who can come in and conduct a thorough inspection of the frame. It's possible that more caulking is all that's required, or maybe the shims require to be replaced. In either case, fixing the issue promptly will help avoid future damage and costly repairs. patio door repairs near me is always better to repair your patio door or frame before it's too late to put off repairs.

4. Warped Frame

If wood is exposed to external factors, like a fluctuation of humidity, it may absorb or lose moisture, which could lead to warping. A sagging frame could make it difficult to operate the door and eventually cause damage or failure. This is especially the case for doors that divide damp garages and basements from living areas.





A damaged frame can be corrected by a few minor repairs. Begin by inspecting the frame to ensure that all bolts and screws are tight and secure. Replace any loose or missing screws. Replace the hinge screws by longer ones, usually 2 inches or more. This allows the screw be able to penetrate the wall framing instead of the door jamb, and pull the frame back into place.

You can also try adding shims, which are small pieces of wood that can be put behind the hinges to adjust the position of the frame. Shims can aid in supporting the frame and spread the weight evenly across a wider area that will stop the frame from becoming more damaged over time.

You may want to hire an expert to repair more severe frame warps. A professional will examine the frame thoroughly to determine the severity and offer a complete solution. They can also put in additional bracing to reinforce the frame and help to keep it from sliding in the future. In most instances, this is a more durable and cost-effective solution than simply buying new patio door components. If the frame is severely damaged, you might require replacing the entire jamb of the door instead of just the door itself.

5. Cosmetic Damage

Over time, patio doors will endure a significant amount of wear and tear. Surface damage can make your doors look less appealing and impact the overall appearance of your home. The good news is that most cosmetic damage is easily repaired using bonding fillers or paint. However, if the door has significant dents or cracks, it will be best to replace it rather than trying to repair it.

The weatherstripping on doors may decrease in effectiveness over time, just like the seal around windows. This can cause gaps that let air from outside enter your home and increase the cost of energy. A professional door repair can install new weatherstripping to decrease energy loss and improve insulation.

Moisture on the exterior of your door is not good news, but patio doors are especially vulnerable to it. The moisture could cause wood rot, which can be costly and difficult to repair. Water leaks should be addressed immediately by a professional.

A patio door can be misaligned over time due to foundation modifications or regular usage. This could cause the doors to become jammed or difficult to open and close. A door repair technician can realign the tracks and hinges to ensure smooth operation. They can also replace worn-out rollers and hinges to ensure proper functioning.