Why Patio Doors Repairs Is A Lot More Dangerous Than You Realized

Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors give homeowners fresh air and light, and they increase a home's value. In time, however they can develop issues that require immediate attention.

Understanding the way patio doors operate can help homeowners communicate with a contractor about the issues they face. Here are some common patio door repairs:.

Rollers that aren't aligned properly

Sometimes, a sliding patio door will get stuck and it's difficult to get it to open again. Most of these non-cooperative sliding patio doors can be fixed easily with some cleaning and oiling, unless a structural issue is present. Typically dirt in the lower track can cause the rollers and bottom track to be misaligned. In this case, clean the track thoroughly before applying the lubricant in a thin layer so that the rollers can glide easily.

In addition, misalignment can be caused because of wear or damage in the hinges connecting the doors, which house some of the rollers; springs, whether torsion or extension and cables, which lift the door. When these components are damaged or worn, can affect roller alignment and lead to resistance and other issues, like the door feeling heavier or a rise in energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these components are in sync to keep your patio doors operating smoothly.

To check roller-to-roller alignment to determine alignment, set up an eagle's foot at the one end of the track. Then employ a tramming tool to sweep across both rollers, recording the distance they travel. Repeat the process at the other end of track and divide by two to get 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 individual rail using a level or carpenter's level.

Another method of checking roller alignment is to remove the head stop, which is a flat plate that is located on the door jamb at the bottom of the frame that stops the rollers. This requires the removal of any grilles or shades that are removable, and in the event that the door is heavy, getting assistance with this step. After the head stop has been removed, carefully remove the head track adjustment screws by removing them with a screwdriver, then reinstall the assembly by aligning each screw adjustment for the roller with the access hole for it and tapping it in using the Hammer.

Tracks that are dirty or damaged

Patio doors that slide are magnets for debris, dirt and other elements outside. They can also be susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues that require professional repair. In order to extend the life of your patio door the identification and resolution of these issues promptly is crucial.

Dirty tracks are among the most frequent causes of sliding patio door malfunctions. Over time dirt and other debris, such as food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris, could be trapped in the small spaces between the tracks of your sliding doors and cause it to become stuck or difficult to open. To avoid this, it's recommended to clean and vacuum your patio door tracks at least once per month. You can clean your patio door tracks using an anti-abrasive cleaning solution or with warm soapy tap water after you've removed any debris that is floating around. If you notice that certain parts of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or toothbrush to clean these small spaces.

In addition to cleaning the tracks, you must lubricate them regularly 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 regularly. You can also rub paraffin wax on the track to increase 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 has worn out or damaged. This could cause gaps between the frame and door that allows air to enter and reduce energy efficiency. Make sure that your weatherstripping is in good order and replace it if necessary.

With regular use your patio door will show normal wear and wear and tear with time. However,  patio door lock repairs near me  are typically not a sign of a significant issue. Minor repairs can extend the life of your patio door. Get in touch with a professional as soon when you notice any issues to avoid costly repairs in the future.

Glass that has cracked or warped

A patio door that's damaged or sagging can be a real eyesore and can pose security risks. It also allows in unwanted critters and make your home's temperature change dramatically. Fortunately, these issues are usually fixable if you catch them early.

A quick glance at the glass will help determine what kind of repair is needed. Cracks in glass are usually caused by stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than simple chipping on the surface. A professional may need to re-lead the panel. This will mean removal of the glass, cleaning and replacing any broken pieces. To make sure that the new glass with the original, a professional requires accurate documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.

Sometimes, a crack in the glass can be filled with epoxy plastic. This can be purchased from hardware stores or in the home improvement section in many stores. A professional will employ the soldering tool to melt the plastic then apply it to the crack. After the plastic has cooled, the professional can remove any excess.

If the crack is not too big it is possible to repair the glass with clear sealant. This kind of product can be purchased at any hardware store. It is important to thoroughly dry the crack prior to applying sealant. This will prevent the repair from failing. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer or other fan.

Weatherstripping damaged

A weather stripping that is worn out is not just ugly and is a security risk it also lets the outside air and heat to escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping on your home.

First, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit, or caulk sealant or adhesive (depending on the repair method) tools, scissors, pliers, a utility knife, as well as gloves or protective goggles. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting through an end piece and pulling it up with any screws attached, if applicable. Then remove any pieces left in the pliers or pry bar.

If you decide to replace the weather stripping, start by measuring the distance around your door frame. The measurements can be used to determine the size of weather stripping that you need. Make sure you leave a little extra length so you can fine-tune the fit later. Once you've found the ideal size, apply the backing and press the material against the frame. If you want you would like to use a small nail to tack the frame to the wall.

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

Finally, be sure to clean your tracks and sliding doors regularly. Taking the time to do this prevents sticking and other problems down the road. Making sure you are keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors ensures they stay functional, attractive and energy efficient. When you do this, you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence and save some money in the process! Happy fixing your home!