Say "Yes" To These 5 Patio Doors Repairs Tips Patio Doors Repairs

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

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

Rollers that aren't aligned properly

It's sometimes difficult to open a sliding patio door. Most of these non-cooperative sliding patio doors can be fixed easily with a bit of oiling and cleaning in the event that a structural issue is present. 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 patio door repairs is necessary to clean the track and apply a thin coating of lubricant, allowing the rollers glide easily.

It 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. When damaged or worn, these components can affect roller alignment, causing resistance, as well as a heavier door or higher energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these elements are working together to keep your patio doors functioning smoothly.

To verify the alignment between rollers and alignment, place a crow's foot at one end of the track and employ a tramming tool to sweep across both rollers, recording the distance they travel. Repeat the process on the opposite 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 exact as using pi tape to measure diameter directly. However, it's faster and easier than using a carpenter's or level to measure the length of each rail.

Another method of checking the alignment of the rollers is to remove the head stop, a flat plate that is located on the jamb of the door at the bottom of the frame that blocks the rollers. If the door is very heavy, you may require help in removing removable grilles and shades. After the head stop is removed, remove the head track adjustment screws by backing them out with a screwdriver, then reinstall the assembly by aligning each screw adjustment for the roller with its access hole, and tapping it in with the hammer.

Dirty or damaged tracks

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

One of the main reasons for sliding patio doors to fail is dirty tracks. Over time, food debris, pet hair, and yard debris can become stuck in the small spaces of your sliding door track and cause the door to snag or become difficult to open. It is recommended to clean and vacuum the tracks of your patio doors every month, at minimum, to avoid problems like this. After you've removed all of the debris that is loose and dirt, you can use a non-abrasive home cleaning solution or warm soapy water to clean down your patio door tracks. If you notice that certain areas of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or toothbrush to clean these tiny areas.

You should also lubricate the tracks regularly to avoid sliding doors from becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest applying silicone spray to the bottom track regularly. You can also rub paraffin wax on the track to increase the glide.


Another common issue that can affect your sliding patio door is a draft or air leak. This could happen if the weather stripping of your sliding patio door has worn out or is damaged. This can cause a gap between your sliding patio door and the frame. This allows air in and reduces the energy efficiency. Make sure that your weatherstripping is in good order and replace it if needed.

With consistent use your patio door will show normal wear and wear and tear over time. However these issues are usually not indicative of a serious issue. In most cases, minor repairs can prolong the life of your patio door and keep it operating properly. Get a professional in touch to fix any issues as soon they appear to save on costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is damaged or warped

A warped or cracked patio door is a serious visual ailment and a potential security risk. It can also let in unwanted creatures and cause your home temperature fluctuate wildly. These issues are simple to fix if detected early.

First, a quick look at the glass will determine the type of repair is needed. Glass cracks are typically caused by impact or stress. They are more difficult to repair than surface chips. A professional may have to reconnect this panel. This will require removing the glass, cleaning it, and replacing broken pieces. To help match the new glass with the original, professionals require precise documentation of how the piece looked at the time.

Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. You can buy this in a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will typically use an iron soldering to melt the plastic then apply it to the crack in the glass. After it has been cool, the professional can remove any excess.

If the crack is not too big it might be possible to repair the glass by using clear sealant. This kind of product can be found at any hardware store. It is crucial to dry the crack completely before applying sealant. This will prevent the repair from failing. A hair dryer or any other fan can be used to speed up this procedure.

Damaged weatherstripping

A weather stripping that is worn out not only looks bad and is a security risk, but also allows outside air and heat out. A quick fix with a new piece of weather stripping will save you money while keeping your home more comfortable.

Make sure you have the proper tools and materials. You will need a replacement weather-stripping kit or adhesive or caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you choose) tools, pliers and a pair of scissors, a utility knife and gloves or goggles that are protective and a new weather-stripping kit. Then, remove the old weather stripping by cutting one end piece and lifting it up with any screws that attach it, when applicable. Remove any remaining pieces with the pliers and a prybar.

If you decide to replace the weather stripping, start by measuring the gap around the door frame. Make use of the measurements to determine the right size weather stripping you will need. Make sure to leave some extra length for later fine-tuning. Once you have the right size then apply the adhesive backing and press it against the frame. If desired you would like to use a small nail to tack the frame to the wall.

Finally, apply some wood filler to any holes or divots in the frame. Let the filler dry completely before painting. In general, it is best to apply oil-based paint over the filler, however latex paint is also a good choice.

The last thing to do is take care to clean your sliding door tracks and doors regularly. This will help prevent future issues such as sticking. Repairing and maintaining your patio doors will ensure that they remain functional, attractive and energy efficient. When you do this you will be able to enjoy the outdoors with confidence and save some money at the same time! Happy fixing your home!