Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors provide homeowners with natural fresh air and light and boost the value of a home. But with time, they may develop issues that need to be addressed swiftly.

Understanding how patio doors work can help homeowners communicate better with contractors about issues they face. Here are a few of the most frequent problems with patio doors:

Rollers that are not aligned

Sometimes, a sliding patio door will get stuck and it's difficult to get the thing to open once more. The majority of these non-cooperative sliding patio doors can be fixed with a bit of oiling and cleaning in the event that a structural issue is present. The majority of the time dirt on the lower track can cause the bottom track and rollers to be misaligned. In this instance it is necessary to clean the track and apply a light coating of lubricant to let the rollers move easily.

Misalignment can also occur because of wear or damage in the hinges that connect the door panels, which house some of the rollers, springs, whether torsion or extension and cables that raise the door. When damaged or worn these components can cause problems with the alignment of the rollers, leading to resistance as well as other issues such as a heavier door or higher energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and regular professional inspections can help ensure that these components work harmoniously to keep your patio door functioning smoothly.

To verify the alignment between rollers, set up a crow's foot at one end of the track. Then use a tramming stick to sweep across both rollers, noting the distance they travel. Repeat patio door repairs at the opposite end of track and divide by two to determine the rollers' alignment (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using pi tapes to measure the diameter directly, but it's much more efficient and less time-consuming than measuring each individual rail with a level or carpenter's level.

You can also test the alignment of the rollers by taking off the head stop. This is a flat plate that is located at the bottom of your door jamb. It stops the rollers. This requires the removal of any removable grilles or shades and, if the door is heavy, you should seek assistance in this process. After taking off the head stop, remove the head track adjusters screws by backing them with the screwdriver. After reinstalling your assembly and aligning each screw for adjustment to the hole that it is accessible through, and tapping it with the hammer.

Dirty or damaged tracks

Sliding patio door can act as a magnet for dirt, debris, and other elements. They can also be susceptible to misalignment and other issues that require professional repair services. To extend the lifespan of your patio doors, it is essential to find and fix these problems as soon as possible.

Dirty tracks are one of the most common causes of sliding patio door malfunctions. Over time dirt and other particles, such as food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris can get trapped in the narrow spaces between your sliding door tracks and cause it to get stuck or difficult to open. It is recommended that you clean and vacuum the patio door tracks at least once a month to avoid problems like this. Once you've removed all the loose debris, you can use a non-abrasive home cleaning solution or warm soapy water to wipe down your patio door tracks. If you notice areas of the track are harder to clean, try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean these tiny spaces.

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

Another issue that could impact your sliding patio door is a draft or air leak. This could happen if the weather stripping of your sliding patio door is worn or has been damaged. This could cause a gap between the frame and door, which allows air to enter and reduce the efficiency of energy. Make sure that your weatherstripping is in good shape and replace it if necessary.

If you use it regularly, your patio door will experience normal wear and wear and tear with time. These issues are not usually an indication of a serious issue. Small repairs can prolong the life of your patio door. Contact a professional to address any problems as soon as they occur to prevent costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is cracked or warped

A cracked or warped patio door is an visual ailment and a potential security risk. It can also let in unwanted animals and cause your home's temperature fluctuate dramatically. These problems are easy to fix if caught early.

A quick glance at the glass can aid in determining what kind of repairs are required. Glass cracks are typically caused by stress or impact. These are more difficult to repair than chips on the surface. A professional may have to re-lead the panel. This will require removal of the glass and replacing any broken pieces. To make sure that the new glass to the old, professionals require exact documentation of the way the piece looked at the time.

Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. You can purchase this at a hardware store, or in the home improvement section. A professional will use the soldering tool to melt the plastic then apply it to the crack. After the plastic has cooled and the professional has removed any excess.

If the glass crack isn't too big, there might be a chance of repairing it using clear sealant. This kind of product can be found at any hardware store. It is crucial to thoroughly dry the crack prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or another fan can be used to expedite this process.

Weatherstripping damaged

A weather stripping that is worn out not only looks ugly and can pose a security risk however it also allows outside air and heat to escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping in your home.

First, ensure that you have all the necessary tools and supplies. This includes a new weather stripping kit, or adhesive/caulk sealant (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 pulling it up along with any screws that attach it, when applicable. Then take any remaining pieces over with pliers or a pry bar.

If you decide to replace the weather stripping, start by measuring the distance around the door frame. Make use of the measurements to determine what size weather stripping you need. Make sure you leave extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you've got the right size, apply the backing and press it against the frame. If desired, 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 prior to painting. It is recommended to apply oil-based paint on the filler, but latex paint will work too.

Last but not least, clean your sliding door tracks and doors regularly. This will help prevent future issues such as sticking. Maintaining regular maintenance and repairs to your patio doors ensures they are functional, attractive and energy efficient. You'll save money while enjoying the great outdoors while doing it. Enjoy your home renovation projects!