Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors offer homeowners natural light and fresh air and can boost the value of a home. Over time, however they can develop issues that require immediate attention.

Understanding how patio doors function will help homeowners communicate better with contractors about issues they face. Here are some of the most frequently encountered patio door problems:

Rollers that aren't aligned properly

Sometimes, a sliding patio door will get stuck and it's not simple to get it open again. However, unless there's an underlying structural issue, most uncooperative doors can be easily fixed by a bit of cleaning and lubrication. The most frequent cause is dirt in the lower track, which may cause the rollers to rub against the track at the bottom and cause them to become misaligned. In this case, you'll need to clean the track and apply a light coat of lubricant so that the rollers glide easily.

In addition, misalignment can be caused due to wear or damage in the hinges that connect the doors, which house some of the rollers, springs either torsion or extension; and cables, which lift the door. When these components are damaged or worn out, could affect roller alignment and cause resistance, as well as other issues, like the door feeling heavier or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections will ensure that these parts are working together to keep your patio doors functioning smoothly.

Set up a crow’s foot at one end. Use the tramming stick to sweep across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the same process at the opposite end of the track, and then divide by two to determine the alignment of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as precise as using a pi tape to measure diameter directly. However, it's faster and more efficient than using a carpenter's or level to determine the rail's diameter.

Another method of checking roller alignment is to remove the head stop, a flat plate on the door jamb at bottom of the frame that blocks the rollers. This will require removing any removable grilles or shades and, if the door is heavy, obtaining assistance with this step. Once the head stop has been removed, remove the head track adjustment screws by removing them with an screwdriver. Reinstall the assembly by aligning each adjustment screw with its access hole and tapping it in using a hammer.

Tracks that are damaged or dirty

Sliding patio door can act as magnet for dirt, debris and other elements. They are also susceptible to misalignment, and other issues that require professional repairs. To prolong the lifespan of your patio door identifying and addressing these problems early on is essential.

One of the most common causes for sliding patio doors to fail is filthy tracks. Over time, dirt and other debris like food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris can get trapped in the narrow spaces between your sliding door tracks, causing it to get stuck or difficult to open. It is recommended to vacuum and clean the patio door tracks every month at a minimum to avoid problems like this. You can clean your patio door tracks using a non-abrasive cleaning solution, or use warm soapy tap water after you've removed any loose debris. If you notice that certain areas of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or a toothbrush to scrub these tiny areas.

In addition to cleaning the tracks, you must be sure to lubricate them frequently to avoid your sliding patio door repair door from becoming stuck or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest adding silicone spray to your bottom track on a regular basis. You can also rub paraffin wax along the track to increase glide.

Another issue that could impact your sliding patio door is air leak or draft. This can happen when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is worn or has been damaged. This can lead to gaps between your sliding patio door and the frame. This allows air in and decreases the efficiency of energy. Make sure that your weatherstripping is in good condition and replace it when needed.

If you use it regularly, your patio door will experience normal wear and tear over time. However these issues are usually not indicative of a serious issue. Small repairs can prolong the life of your patio door. Contact a professional to address any issues as soon as they occur to save on costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is cracked or warped

A damaged or cracked patio door is a serious eye-sore and could pose a security risk. It can also permit unwanted animals to enter your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. These problems are easy to fix if caught early.

A quick glance at the glass will assist you in determining what kind of repairs are needed. Generally, cracks in glass are due to stress or impact. These are more difficult to repair than chips on the surface. A professional will probably need to reconnect this panel. This would require taking the glass off, cleaning and replacing any broken pieces. For this reason, an expert will require precise documentation of the piece as it was originally viewed to ensure that the new glass with the original.

Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. It can be purchased at hardware stores or in the home improvement section of a lot of stores. A professional will employ a soldering tool to melt the plastic and then apply it to the crack. After it has been cooled, the professional will wipe away any excess.

If the crack is not too big it might be possible to repair the glass using clear sealant. You can purchase this type of sealant at any hardware store. It is essential to thoroughly dry the cracked area prior to applying the sealant. This will prevent the repair patio door lock from failing. A hair dryer or any other fan can be used to speed up this procedure.

Weatherstripping that is damaged

A worn out weather stripping is not only unsightly 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 in your home.

Make sure you have the proper tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit, or caulk sealant or adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method) and scissors, pliers, a utility knife, as well as gloves or goggles that are protective. Then, remove the old weather stripping by cutting the end piece and then lifting it up with any screws for attachment if applicable. Remove any remaining pieces using pliers and a plier.

Start by measuring the gap around the door frame. Use the measurements to determine what size weather stripping you need. Be sure to leave a little extra length so you can fine-tune the fit later. Once you've found the ideal size, place the backing and press the material against the frame. If desired, tack it in place using a small nail or hammer.

Apply wood filler to the frame to fill any divots or holes. Let the filler completely dry before painting. It is best to use oil-based paint, however, latex paint can also be used.

Also, ensure that you clean your sliding doors and tracks regularly. This will help prevent future issues like sticking. Cleaning and maintaining your patio sliding door repair doors will ensure that they remain functional, attractive and energy efficient. You can save money and enjoy the great outdoors while doing it. Enjoy your home renovation projects!