Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors offer homeowners natural light and fresh clean air. They also boost the value of a home. However, over time they can develop issues that require immediate attention.
Understanding how patio doors work can help homeowners communicate better with contractors about issues they encounter. Here are some of the most frequently encountered problems with patio doors:
Rollers that are not aligned
It's not always easy to open a sliding patio door. However it's not a sign of a structural issue, most uncooperative doors can be easily repaired with a little cleaning and lubrication. The majority of the time dirt in the lower track can cause the track's rollers and bottom track to misalign. In this case clean the track thoroughly before applying a thin layer of lubricant to allow the rollers to glide easily.
Misalignment may also be caused by wear or damage to the hinges connecting the doors that house a portion of these rollers; springs (whether extensions or torsion) and cables that lift the door. When worn or damaged these components could affect the alignment of the rollers, leading to resistance as well as other issues such as a heavier door or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these elements are in good working order to keep your patio doors functioning smoothly.
Install a crow's feet at one end and use a trammingstick to sweep across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the same process at the opposite end of the track and divide by two to determine the alignment of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using pi tape to measure the diameter directly. However, it's faster and easier than using a carpenter's level to measure each rail.
You can also check the alignment of the rollers by removing the head stop. This is a flat plate that is situated at the bottom of the door jamb. It stops the rollers. If the door is heavy, you may require help in removing removable grilles and shades. After removing the head stop take out the head track adjustment screws by backing them up with a screwdriver. After reinstalling your assembly and aligning each roller adjustment screw to the hole that it is accessible through, and tapping it with the hammer.
Tracks that are damaged or dirty
A sliding patio door can serve as an attraction for dirt, debris and other elements. They are also susceptible to misalignment and other issues that require professional repair. To extend the life of your patio doors, it's important to identify and address these problems in the earliest time possible.
One of the main causes for sliding patio doors to fail is filthy tracks. Over time,, food particles, pet hair and yard debris can become trapped within the narrow spaces of your door's track, causing the door to stick or become difficult to open. It is recommended that you vacuum and clean the tracks of your patio door every month at a minimum to avoid problems like this. You can clean your patio door tracks using a non-abrasive cleaner or warm soapy tap water after you've removed any debris that is floating around. If you notice areas of the track are more difficult to clean, you can try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean these tiny areas.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, it is recommended to lubricate them regularly to prevent your sliding door from becoming stuck or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest applying silicone spray to your bottom track on a regular basis. You can also apply paraffin wax along the track to improve the glide.
Air leaks or drafts can also affect your sliding patio doors. This can happen when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has worn away or has been damaged. This can cause an opening between the frame and the door which allows air come in and reduces energy efficiency. Check that your weatherstripping is in good condition and replace it if necessary.
With consistent use, your patio door will experience normal wear and wear and tear with time. However, these issues are typically not indicators of a major problem. In the majority of cases, minor repairs can prolong the lifespan of your patio door and keep it running smoothly. Contact a professional to address any problems as soon as they occur to prevent costly repairs in the future.
Glass that has cracked or warped
A patio door that's damaged or sagging could be a major eye-sore, and it could pose an security risk. It could also allow in unwanted critters and make your home's temperature fluctuate dramatically. These problems are easy to fix when discovered early.
A quick glance at the glass can assist you in determining what kind of repairs are required. Glass cracks are typically caused by stress or impact. They can be a bit more difficult to repair than normal chipping on the surface. A professional will probably have to re-lead the panel. This would require taking the glass off and cleaning, as well as replacing any broken pieces. To make sure that the new glass to the old one, a professional needs precise documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.
Sometimes cracks in the 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 usually use an iron soldering to melt the plastic then apply it to the cracks in the glass. Once the plastic has cooled down it is then removed by the professional any excess.
If the crack in the glass isn't too big, there might be a chance of repairing it with clear sealant. You can purchase this type of product at any hardware retailer. However, it is important to thoroughly dry the cracked area before applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or any other fan can be used to expedite this procedure.
Weatherstripping damaged
A worn out weather stripping is not just ugly and a security risk but it also allows outside air to enter and cold or hot air to escape. A simple fix using a new piece of weather stripping can save you money and make your home more comfortable.
Make sure you have the proper tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit or caulk sealant adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method) and scissors, pliers, a utility knife, as well as gloves or protective goggles. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting through one end piece, then pulling it up, along with any screws for attachment in the event that they are needed. Then, gently take any remaining pieces in the pliers or pry bar.
Start by measuring the gap around the door frame. You can use these measurements to determine the length of weather stripping that you require. Make sure to leave some extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you've found the perfect size, place the backing and press it against the frame. If you wish you would like to 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 paint. It is recommended 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 can prevent the doors from sticking and other problems down the road. Maintaining and repairing navigate to this site will ensure they remain functional, attractive and energy-efficient. You can save money while enjoying the great outdoors while doing so. Happy fixing your home!