Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors provide homeowners with sunlight and fresh, air. They also enhance the value of homes. In time, however, they may develop problems that require immediate attention.
Understanding how patio doors function will help homeowners communicate better with contractors regarding issues they face. Here are some of the most frequent problems with patio doors:
Misaligned rollers
It's not always easy to open a sliding patio door. However, unless there's an underlying structural issue, most doors that aren't cooperating can be fixed by a bit of cleaning and lubrication. Most often, dirt in the lower track can cause the track's rollers and bottom track to become misaligned. In this situation you'll need to wash the track and apply a light 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 door panels that house some of these rollers; springs (whether extensions or torsion) as well as cables that lift the door. When these components are damaged or worn, can alter the alignment of rollers and lead to resistance and other issues, such as doors that feel heavier or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and regular professional inspections can ensure that all these elements are in sync to keep your patio door functioning smoothly.
To verify the alignment between rollers to determine alignment, set up an eagle's foot at the one end of the track and use a tramming stick to sweep across both rollers, observing the distance that each travels. Repeat the process on the other end of the track, and then divide by 2 to obtain a reading of the parallelism of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as precise as using pi tapes to measure the diameter directly, but it's much quicker and simpler than measuring each individual 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 situated at the bottom of the door jamb. It stops the rollers. This will require removing any grilles or shades that are removable and, in the event that the door is heavy, you should seek assistance with this step. After taking off the head stop, remove the head track adjustments screws by backing them with the screwdriver. After reinstalling your assembly, align each screw for adjustment to its access hole, then tapping it with the hammer.
Dirty or damaged tracks
Patio doors that slide are magnets for dirt, debris and other elements outside. They are also prone to misalignment, as well as other issues which may require professional repairs. To prolong 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 malfunctions in sliding patio doors. 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 which can cause it to become stuck or difficult to open. It is recommended that you vacuum and clean the patio door tracks every month at a minimum to avoid problems. You can clean your patio door tracks using a non-abrasive cleaner or warm soapy tap water once you've removed any debris that is floating around. If you find that certain areas of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or toothbrush to clean these tiny areas.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, you must 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, we suggest adding silicone spray to your bottom track regularly. You can also apply paraffin wax to improve the glide.
Another common issue that can affect your sliding patio door is a air leak or draft. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has worn out or damaged. This could cause gaps between your sliding patio door and the frame. This allows air to enter and reduces the energy efficiency. Ensure that your weather stripping is in good shape and replace it if required.
With consistent use, your patio door will go through normal wear and wear and tear with time. These issues aren't usually indicative of a major problem. Small repairs can prolong the lifespan of your patio door. Consult a professional for any issues as soon as they appear to prevent costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is damaged or warped
A warped or cracked patio door is an visual ailment and a potential security risk. It can also permit unwanted animals into your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple to fix in the event that you spot them early.
A quick glance at the glass can aid in determining what kind of repairs are needed. Glass cracks are typically caused by stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than chips that are on the surface. A professional may have to re-lead this panel. This will require the removal of the glass, cleaning it, and replacing broken pieces. To ensure that the new glass with the old one, a professional requires precise documentation of how the piece looked at the time.
Sometimes cracks in glass can be filled with epoxy made of plastic. It can be bought from hardware stores or in the home improvement section in many stores. A professional will typically employ a soldering iron to melt the plastic then apply it to the crack in the glass. After the plastic has cooled, the professional can remove any excess.
If repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is not too big it might be possible to repair the glass with clear sealant. You can purchase this type of product at any hardware store. It is essential to dry the crack thoroughly prior to applying sealant. This will prevent the repair from failing. A hair dryer or another fan can be used to expedite this procedure.
Weatherstripping damaged
A worn out weather stripping is not just unsightly and a security hazard, but it also allows outside air to enter and cold or heat escape. A quick fix with a new piece of weather stripping could save you money and make your home more comfortable.
First, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes a new weather stripping kit, or adhesive/caulk sealant (depending on your chosen repair method), scissors, pliers, utility knife, as well as gloves or goggles that are protective. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting the end piece and then lifting it up with any screws that attach it, if applicable. Then, gently remove any pieces left in the pliers or pry bar.
Begin by measuring the space around the door frame. Utilize the measurements to determine the size of weather stripping you will need. Be sure to leave a little extra length so that you can adjust the size later. Once you've found the perfect size you can apply the backing with adhesive and press it against the frame. If you want, secure it to the frame with small nails or hammers.
Apply wood filler to the frame to cover any divots or holes. Let the filler completely dry before painting. It is recommended to use oil-based paints, however, latex can also be used.
Also, ensure that you 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 remain functional, attractive, and energy-efficient. You will save money and enjoy the great outdoors while doing it. Enjoy your home renovation projects!