Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors offer homeowners natural sunlight and fresh air, and they boost the value of a home. However, over time, they may develop problems that require immediate attention.

Understanding how patio doors operate can help homeowners communicate more effectively with contractors about issues they face. Here are a few of the most common patio door problems:

Misaligned rollers

It's not always easy to open a sliding patio door. But it's not a sign of a structural issue, most uncooperative doors can be easily fixed with some cleaning and lubrication. Typically, dirt in the lower track can cause the bottom track and rollers to misalign. In this situation you'll need to wash the track and apply a thin coat of lubricant so that the rollers move easily.

Misalignment can also occur because of wear or damage in the hinges that join the doors that house some of the rollers, springs either torsion or extension; and cables, which lift the door. When damaged or worn these components can cause problems with the alignment of the rollers, causing resistance as well as other issues such as a heavier door or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and periodic professional inspections can help ensure that all these elements work harmoniously to ensure that your patio door is operating smoothly.

To determine the alignment of rollers and alignment, place the crow's feet at one end of the track. Then employ a tramming tool to sweep across both rollers, recording the distance that each travels. Repeat the same process at the opposite end of track and divide by two to find the rollers' alignment (Photo 1). This method isn't as exact as using a pi tape to measure diameter directly. It is however, faster and more efficient than using a carpenter's or level to measure each rail.

You can also check the alignment of the rollers by taking off the head stop. This is an elongated plate that is situated at the bottom of the door jamb. It stops the rollers. If the door is heavy, you may need help removal of the removable grilles and shades. After removing the head stop, remove the head track adjustments screws by backing them up with a screwdriver. Then, reinstalling the assembly, align each screw for adjustment to the hole that it is accessible through, and tapping it with the Hammer.

Tracks that are damaged or dirty

Patio doors that slide can serve as magnets for debris, dirt and other outside elements. They also are susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues which may require professional repairs. In order to extend the lifespan of your patio door the identification and resolution of these issues in the early stages is crucial.

Dirty tracks are one of the most frequent causes of malfunctions in sliding patio doors. Over time, food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris can get trapped in the tiny spaces of your sliding door track which can cause the door to snag or become difficult to open. To avoid problems like this, it's recommended to sweep and clean your patio door tracks once every month. After you've removed all of the loose debris then you can use a non-abrasive household cleaning solution or warm soapy water to clean down your patio door tracks. If you notice parts of the track are more difficult to clean, try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean these tiny spaces.

In addition to cleaning the tracks, it is recommended to keep them lubricated to prevent your sliding door from sticking or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we recommend adding silicone spray to your bottom track on a regular basis. You can also rub paraffin wax on the track to enhance the glide.

Air leaks or drafts can also impact your sliding patio doors. This could happen when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has worn out or damaged. This can result in gaps between the frame and door that allows air to be able to enter and decrease energy efficiency. Make sure your weatherstripping is in good shape and replace it if necessary.

Over time your patio door could see normal wear and tear. However these issues are usually not a sign of a serious issue. In patio doors repairs near me of cases, minor repairs can extend the life of your patio door and keep it operating properly. Get in touch with a professional as soon when you notice any issues to avoid future costly repairs.


Glass that has cracked or warped

A patio door that is cracked or warped can be a real eyesore and could be security risks. It can also let in unwanted creatures and cause your home's temperature fluctuate dramatically. Fortunately, these issues are usually easy to fix if you catch them early.

A quick glance at the glass will help you determine what type of repairs are needed. Usually, cracks in glass are due to stress or impact. These are a little more difficult to repair than simple cracks in the surface. A professional may require re-leading the panel. This will require taking the glass off and cleaning, as well as replacing any broken pieces. To help match the new glass with the original, a professional requires precise documentation of how the piece looked at the time.

Sometimes cracks in the glass can be filled with epoxy plastic. You can purchase this at a hardware store, or in the home improvement section. A professional will typically employ an iron soldering to melt the plastic, then apply it to the cracks in the glass. Once the plastic has cooled down, the professional can remove any excess.

If the crack in the glass isn't too big, there might be a possibility of repairing it with clear sealant. You can purchase this kind of sealant at any hardware retailer. However, it is important to thoroughly dry the damaged area prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer or another fan.

Weatherstripping damaged

A weather stripping that's worn-out not only looks ugly and is a security risk, but also allows outside air and heat out. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping in your home.

Make sure you have the appropriate tools and materials. This includes a new weather stripping kit or caulk sealant or adhesive (depending on the repair method), scissors, pliers, utility knife, and a pair of gloves or protective goggles. Remove the old weather stripping, by cutting through an end piece and pulling up with any screws attached if applicable. Remove any remaining pieces using pliers and a prybar.

Begin by measuring the gap around the door frame. You can use these measurements to determine the amount of weather stripping that you need. Be sure to leave a little bit of extra length so you can refine the fit later. Once you've found the ideal size, place the backing and press the material against the frame. If you wish you want to, use a nail to tack the frame to the wall.

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

Lastly, make sure to clean your tracks and sliding doors regularly. This will avoid future issues such as sticking. Keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they stay functional, attractive, and energy-efficient. You'll save money while enjoying the great outdoors while doing so. Happy fixing your home!