Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors give homeowners natural light and fresh, air. They also enhance the value of a house. However, over time they can develop issues that require immediate attention.
Understanding how patio doors work will help homeowners communicate better with contractors about problems they face. Here are some common patio door repairs:.
Rollers that are not aligned
It's not always simple to open a sliding patio door. But in the absence of a underlying structural issue, the majority of uncooperative doors can be easily fixed by a bit of cleaning and lubrication. The most frequent cause is dirt in the lower track, which can cause the rollers to rub against the track at the bottom and cause them to become misaligned. In this instance, clean the track thoroughly and apply the lubricant in a thin layer so that the rollers can glide smoothly.
In addition, misalignment can be caused because of wear or damage in the hinges that join the door panels, which house some of the rollers; springs either torsion or extension; and cables, which lift the door. When worn or damaged these components could affect roller alignment, causing resistance as well as other issues such as the door being heavier or having higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and periodic professional inspections can help ensure that all these elements work in harmony to keep your patio door 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 stick to sweep across both rollers, recording the distance they travel. 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 is not as precise as using pi tapes to measure the diameter directly, but it's much more efficient and less time-consuming than measuring each rail with a level, or carpenter's level.
Another option for checking the alignment of the rollers is to remove the head stop, a flat plate that is located on the door jamb at the bottom of the frame that stops the rollers. If the door is very heavy, you may require assistance in removing removable grilles and shades. After removing the head stop, remove the head track adjusters screws by securing them with a screwdriver. Then, reinstalling the assembly by aligning each screw for adjustment to its access hole, and tapping it with a Hammer.
Dirty or damaged tracks
The sliding patio door acts as magnet for dirt, debris, and other elements. They also are susceptible to misalignment, and other issues that require professional repair. To extend the lifespan of your patio doors, it is important to identify and address these problems in the earliest time possible.
Dirty tracks are one of the most frequent causes of problems with sliding patio doors. Over time,, food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris can get trapped within the narrow spaces of the track of your sliding door and cause the door to stick or become difficult to open. It is recommended to clean and vacuum your tracks of your patio doors at least once a month to avoid problems like this. After you've removed all of the debris that has accumulated, you can use a non-abrasive home cleaning solution or warm soapy water to wipe down your patio door tracks. If you notice that some parts of the track are more difficult to clean, you can try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean these small spaces.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, it is recommended to 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 apply silicone spray to the bottom track on a frequent basis. You can also apply paraffin wax along the track to increase the glide.
Another common issue that can affect your sliding patio door is a draft or air leak. This could happen when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is damaged or worn out. This could cause gaps between your patio door and the frame. This allows air to enter and reduces the energy efficiency. Check that your weather stripping is in good condition and replace it when needed.
Over replacing patio door will be subject to normal wear and tear. However, these issues are typically not a sign of a significant issue. In the majority of cases, minor repairs can prolong the life of your patio door and keep it operating properly. Consult a professional for any issues as soon as they are apparent to prevent 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 let in unwanted critters and make your home temperature fluctuate wildly. These problems are easy to fix if they are discovered early.
A quick glance at the glass will help you determine what type of repairs are required. Usually, cracks in glass are the result of stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than simple surface chips. A professional will probably have to re-lead the panel. This will require removing the glass clean it, and replacing the broken pieces. To help match the new glass with the old one, a professional requires accurate documentation of how the piece looked at the time.
Sometimes cracks in glass can be filled with plastic epoxy. You can buy this at a hardware store, or in the home improvement section. A professional will usually use a soldering iron to melt the plastic, then apply it to the crack in the glass. Once the plastic has cooled it is then removed by the professional any excess.
If the crack isn't too large it is possible to repair the glass using clear sealant. This kind of product can be purchased at any hardware store. It is essential to thoroughly dry the crack prior to applying sealant. This will prevent the repair from failing. You can accelerate the process by using a hair dryer or another fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A weather stripping that is worn out is not just unsightly and a security risk but it also allows outside air to seep in and cold or heat escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping on your home.
First, ensure you have all the tools and supplies. You'll need a new weather-stripping kit or adhesive or caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you choose) as well as pliers and scissors, a utility knife, protective goggles or gloves and a new weather-stripping kit. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting one end piece, then pulling it up, along with any screws that attach it, in the event that they are needed. Remove any remaining pieces using the pliers and a prybar.
If you decide to replace the weather stripping, begin by measuring the distance around your door frame. The measurements can be used to determine the size of weather stripping that you will require. Be sure to leave an extra length for later fine-tuning. Once you have the right size then apply the adhesive 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 some wood filler to any divots or holes in the frame. Allow the filler to dry completely before applying any paint. It is best to use oil-based paints, however, latex can also be used.
Finally, be sure to clean your tracks and sliding doors regularly. This will help prevent future issues like sticking. Keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they are attractive, functional, and energy-efficient. If you do this you will be able to enjoy the great outdoors with confidence, and save money at the same time! Enjoy your home improvements!