Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors offer homeowners natural light and fresh air, and they boost the value of a home. However, over time they can develop issues that require immediate attention.
Understanding the way patio doors operate can help homeowners communicate with a contractor regarding the problems they encounter. Here are some common patio door repairs:.
Misaligned rollers
It's sometimes difficult to open a patio sliding door. Most of these uncooperative sliding patio doors can be repaired easily with some cleaning and oiling, unless a structural issue is present. Most often dirt on the lower track can cause the rollers and bottom track to become misaligned. In this situation it is necessary to clean the track and apply a light coating of lubricant to let the rollers glide easily.
sliding patio door repair can be caused by wear or damage to the hinges connecting the doors that house a portion of these rollers, springs (whether torsion or extensions) as well as cables that lift the door. When worn or damaged 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. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections will ensure that these parts are in good working order to keep your patio doors functioning smoothly.
To verify the alignment between rollers to determine alignment, set up the crow's feet at the one end of the track and employ a tramming tool to sweep across both rollers, observing the distance that each travels. Repeat the process on the opposite end of the track, and divide by 2 to get a reading of the rollers' parallelism (Photo 1). This method isn't as exact as using pi tape to measure diameter directly. However, it's faster and more efficient than using a carpenter's level to measure each rail.
You can also test the alignment of the rollers by taking off the head stop. This is a flat plate that is located at the bottom of the door jamb. It stops the rollers. If the door is heavy you may need help taking off the grilles and shades that are removable. After the head stop has been removed, remove the head track adjustment screws by pushing them out using a screwdriver, then reinstall the assembly by aligning each screw adjustment for the roller with its access hole and tapping it in with a Hammer.
Tracks that are damaged or dirty
Sliding patio door can act as an attraction for dirt, debris, and other elements. They are also prone to misalignment, and other issues that may require professional repairs. In order to extend the life of your patio door, finding and fixing these issues in the early stages is crucial.
One of the main causes for sliding patio doors to fail is filthy tracks. Over time, food debris, pet hair, and yard debris could get trapped in the tiny spaces of the track of your sliding door and cause the door to stick or become difficult to open. To avoid problems like this it is recommended to sweep and clean your patio door tracks at least once per month. After you've removed all of the loose debris and dirt, you can use a non-abrasive home cleaning solution or warm soapy water to wipe down your patio door tracks. If you notice that certain areas of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or a toothbrush to scrub these tiny spaces.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, it is recommended to be sure to lubricate them frequently to avoid sliding doors from squeezing or becoming difficult to open. If you own Panda patio doors It is recommended to apply silicone spray to the bottom track on a frequent basis. You can also rub paraffin wax on the track to improve glide.
Another common issue that can impact your sliding patio door is a air leak or draft. This could happen if the weather stripping of your sliding patio door has worn out or has been damaged. This can cause an opening between the frame and the door which allows air come in and reduces the efficiency of your energy. Ensure that your weather stripping is in good shape and replace it if required.
Over time your patio door will experience normal wear. These issues aren't usually a sign of an urgent issue. Minor repairs can extend the lifespan of your patio door. Get in touch with a professional as soon when you notice any issues to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is warped or cracked
A patio door that is cracked or warped could be a major eye-sore, and it could pose an security risk. It can also let in unwanted critters and make your home's temperature change dramatically. Thankfully, these problems are usually simple to fix when they are caught early.
A quick glance at the glass can assist you in determining what kind of repairs are needed. Usually, cracks in glass are caused by stress or impact. These are more difficult to repair than chips that are on the surface. A professional may have to re-lead the panel. This will require removing the glass and cleaning it, as well as replacing broken pieces. To help match the new glass to the old one, a professional needs precise documentation of how the piece looked at the time.
Sometimes cracks in glass can be filled with epoxy made of plastic. You can buy this at a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will typically use a soldering iron to melt the plastic, then apply it to the cracks in the glass. After it has cooled, the professional can clean any excess.
If the glass crack is small, there may be a chance of repairing it using clear sealant. You can purchase this type of product at any hardware retailer. It is essential to thoroughly dry the damaged area prior to applying sealant. This will stop the repair from failing. A hair dryer or any other fan can be used to speed up this procedure.
Weatherstripping damaged
A weather stripping that is worn out not only looks ugly and poses a security threat it also lets outside air and heat out. A simple fix using 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. This includes a new weather stripping kit or caulk sealant or adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method) tools, scissors, pliers, utility knife, and a pair of gloves or goggles that are protective. Then, remove the old weather stripping by cutting through one end piece, then pulling it up along with any attaching screws when applicable. Then take care to take any remaining pieces over using pliers or a pry bar.
If you decide to replace the weather stripping, start by measuring the gap around your door frame. You can use the measurements to determine the amount of weather stripping you need. Make sure you leave a little extra length so you can refine the size later. Once you've found the perfect size, place the backing and press it against the frame. If you wish, nail it in place using a small nail or hammer.
Apply wood filler onto the frame to cover any holes or divots. Let the filler completely dry before painting. It's best to use oil-based paints, but latex will also work.
Lastly, make sure to clean your tracks and sliding doors regularly. Taking the time to do this prevents sticking and other issues later on. Maintaining and repairing your patio doors will ensure they remain functional, attractive and energy efficient. You can save money and enjoy the outdoors while doing it. Enjoy your home renovation projects!