Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors offer homeowners natural fresh air and light and increase a home's value. But with time, they may cause issues that must be addressed quickly.

Understanding how patio doors function will help homeowners communicate better with contractors about problems they face. Here are some common patio door repairs:.

Misaligned rollers

Sometimes an outdoor sliding door will get stuck and it's difficult to get it to open again. However, unless there's an underlying structural issue, most doors that aren't cooperating could be fixed with some cleaning and lubrication. The most common culprit is dirt on the lower track, which could cause the rollers to rub against the track at the bottom and cause them to misalign. In this instance, you'll need to clean the track and apply a thin coat of lubricant so that the rollers glide smoothly.


The misalignment can also be caused by damage or wear to the hinges that connect the doors that house a portion of these rollers; springs (whether torsion or extensions); and cables which lift the door. These components, when damaged or worn, can affect roller alignment and cause resistance and other issues, like the door feeling heavier or higher energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these components are in good working order to keep your patio doors operating smoothly.

To determine the alignment of rollers, set up a crow's foot at the one end of the track and employ a tramming tool to sweep across both rollers, noting the distance each travels. Repeat sliding patio door repair at the opposite end of the track and divide by two to get the alignment of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using pi tapes to measure diameter directly, but it's faster and easier than measuring each rail using a level or carpenter's level.

You can also verify the alignment of the rollers by taking off the head stop. It is an elongated plate that is located in the bottom of the door jamb. It stops the rollers. This will require removing any grilles or shades that can be removed and, in the event that the door is heavy, getting assistance in this process. Once the head stop is removed, remove the screws that adjust the head track by removing them with a screwdriver, then reinstall the assembly by aligning each roller adjustment screw with the access hole for it and tapping it in using a hammer.

Dirty tracks or damaged tracks

Sliding patio door can act as magnet for dirt, debris and other elements. They also are susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues which may require professional repairs. To prolong the lifespan of your patio doors, it is essential to find and fix these problems as soon as you can.

One of the most common reasons for sliding patio doors to fail is filthy tracks. Over time, dirt food debris, pet hair, and yard debris can get trapped within the narrow spaces of the track of your sliding door and cause the door to become stuck or become difficult to open. It is recommended that you clean and vacuum the patio door tracks every month, at minimum, to avoid problems like this. After you've cleared all the loose debris and dirt, you can use a non-abrasive household cleaning solution or warm soapy water to clean 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 tiny areas.

In addition to cleaning the tracks, you must be sure to lubricate them frequently to avoid sliding doors from squeezing 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 glide.

Air leaks or drafts can also affect your sliding patio doors. This could occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is worn or has been damaged. This could cause gaps between the frame and the door that allows air to come in and reduces energy efficiency. Make sure that your weatherstripping is in good shape and replace it if necessary.

Over time your patio door will experience normal wear. These issues aren't usually indicative of a major problem. In most cases, minor repairs can extend the lifespan of your patio door and ensure it is running smoothly. Call a professional as quickly as you notice any problems to avoid costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is damaged or warped

A patio door that's cracked or warped could be a major eye-sore, and it could pose a security risk. This can also allow unwanted animals to enter your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. These issues are simple to fix when caught early.

A quick glance at the glass will assist you in determining what kind of repairs are needed. Usually, cracks in glass are due to stress or impact. They can be a bit more difficult to fix than normal cracks in the surface. A professional may have to reconnect this panel. This will require the removal of the glass, cleaning it, and replacing broken pieces. To do this, a professional will need accurate documentation of the glass in its original form to help match up the new glass with the old.

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 employ the soldering tool to melt the plastic and then apply it to the crack. After it has been cool, the professional can remove any excess.

If the crack in the glass is small, there may be a possibility of repairing it with clear sealant. This type of product can be purchased at any hardware store. It is crucial to thoroughly dry the crack before applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. 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 ugly and is a security risk, but also allows outside air and heat out. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping inside your home.

First, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes a new weather stripping kit or caulk sealant or adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method) and scissors, pliers, utility knife, as well as gloves or goggles that are protective. Then, remove the old weather stripping by cutting through one end piece and lifting it up with any attaching screws when applicable. Then, gently remove any pieces left over with pliers or a pry bar.

If you decide to replace the weather stripping, begin by measuring the gap around the door frame. Make use of the measurements to determine the right size weather stripping you need. Be sure to leave a little bit of extra length to fine-tune the fit later. Once you've found the ideal size, apply the backing and press it against the frame. If you want, secure it to the frame using a small nail or hammer.

Finally apply some wood filler to any holes or divots in the frame. Let the filler dry completely prior to applying any paint. It's best to use oil-based paints, but latex will also work.

The last thing to do is take care to clean your sliding door tracks and doors frequently. Making the effort to do this can prevent the doors from sticking and other problems in the future. Making sure you are keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they remain functional, attractive, 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 improvement projects!