Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors give homeowners sunlight and fresh, air. They also enhance the value of a house. But over time, they could develop issues that need to be addressed swiftly.
Understanding how patio doors work can help homeowners communicate better with contractors about problems they encounter. Here are a few of the most frequent patio door problems:
Rollers that are not aligned
It's sometimes difficult to open a sliding patio door. The majority of these uncooperative sliding patio doors can be fixed with a bit of oiling and cleaning, unless a structural problem is present. The most common culprit is dirt on the lower track, which may cause the rollers to be pushed against the track below and cause them to become misaligned. In this situation clean the track thoroughly and apply a thin 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 join the doors which house a portion of the rollers, springs, whether torsion or extension and cables that raise the door. When these components are damaged or worn, can affect roller alignment and lead to resistance and other problems, such as the door feeling heavier or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these components are in good working order to ensure that your patio doors are operating smoothly.
Create a crow's foot at one end, and use the tramming stick to sweep across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process at the other end of the track, and then divide by two to get the rollers' alignment (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using pi tapes to measure the diameter directly, but it's quicker and simpler than measuring each rail with a level or carpenter's level.
You can also verify the alignment of the rollers by removing the head stop. This is an aluminum plate situated at the bottom of the door jamb. It stops the rollers. This requires the removal of any grilles or shades that are removable and, in the event that the door is heavy, you should seek help with this step. After taking off the head stop, remove the head track adjustments screws by securing them with the screwdriver. Then, reinstalling the assembly, align each roller adjustment screw to its access hole, and tapping it with a Hammer.
Tracks that are dirty or damaged
Patio doors that slide open are magnets for dirt, debris and other elements outside. They also are susceptible to misalignment, and other issues which may require professional repair. To prolong the lifespan of your patio door, finding and fixing these issues promptly is crucial.
Dirty tracks are among the most frequent causes of malfunctions in sliding patio doors. Over time dirt and other debris like food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris can get caught in the tiny spaces between the tracks of your sliding doors, causing it to become stuck or difficult to open. It is recommended that you clean and vacuum the tracks of your patio door every month, at minimum, to avoid these problems. You can clean your patio door tracks using a non-abrasive cleaner or warm soapy tap water after having removed any loose debris. If you notice that some parts of the track are difficult to clean, you can use a butter knife or a toothbrush to clean these tiny areas.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, you must be sure to lubricate them frequently to avoid your sliding door from becoming stuck or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, it is recommended to add silicone spray to the bottom track on a regular basis. You can also use paraffin wax to increase the glide.
Air leaks or drafts can also affect your sliding patio doors. This could happen if the weather stripping of your sliding patio door has worn out or is damaged. This could cause gaps between the frame and door which allows air enter and reduce energy efficiency. Make sure that your weather stripping is in good working order and replace it if necessary.
Over time your patio door will experience normal wear. However these issues are usually not indicative of a major problem. In the majority of cases, minor repairs can extend the lifespan of your patio door and ensure that it is operating properly. Consult a professional for any issues as soon they occur to prevent costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is cracked or warped
A cracked or warped patio door is an eyesore and a potential security risk. It could also allow in unwanted creatures and cause your home's temperature fluctuate dramatically. These issues are simple to fix if they are detected early.
A quick glance at the glass will aid in determining what kind of repairs are required. Usually, cracks in glass are due to stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than chips on the surface. A professional will likely have to re-lead the panel. This would require taking the glass off and cleaning, as well as replacing any broken pieces. To help match the new glass with the old, a professional requires accurate documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.
Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. You can buy this at a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will typically employ the soldering iron to melt the plastic then apply it to the crack in the glass. After the plastic has cooled down, the professional can remove any excess.
If the glass crack isn't too big, there might be a chance of repairing it with clear sealant. You can purchase this type of sealant at any hardware retailer. However, it is important to dry thoroughly the damaged area prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. You can accelerate the process by using a hair dryer or other fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A worn out weather stripping is not just unsightly and a security hazard, but it also allows air from outside to get in and cold or heat to escape. A simple fix with a new piece of weather stripping could save you money while keeping your home more comfortable.
Make sure you have the appropriate tools and materials. You'll need a replacement weather-stripping kit or adhesive/caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you choose) as well as 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 an end piece and pulling it up with any screws attached if necessary. Then, gently take any remaining pieces in the pliers or pry bar.
Begin by measuring the gap around the door frame. The measurements can be used to determine the length of weather stripping you will require. Be sure to leave a little extra length so that you can fine-tune the size later. Once you have the right size you can apply the adhesive backing and press it against the frame. If desired, use a small nail to secure the frame in place.
Finally apply Repair My Windows And Doors to any holes or divots in the frame. Allow the filler to dry completely before applying any paint. It is recommended to use oil-based paints but latex will also work.
Last but not least, make sure you clean your sliding tracks and doors frequently. This will help prevent future issues such as sticking. Maintaining and repairing your patio doors will ensure they remain functional, attractive and energy efficient. By doing so, you can enjoy the great outdoors with confidence, and save money in the process! Happy home-fixing!