15 Interesting Facts About Patio Doors Repairs You've Never Known Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors give homeowners light and fresh air, and they enhance the value of a house. But over time, they can develop issues that need to be addressed swiftly.

Understanding the way patio doors operate will help homeowners communicate with a contractor regarding the issues they experience. Here are a few of the most frequent problems with patio doors:

Rollers that are not aligned

It's not always easy to open a patio sliding door. But, unless there's an underlying structural issue, the majority of doors that aren't cooperating can be fixed with some cleaning and lubrication. The majority of the time dirt on the lower track can cause the rollers and bottom track to misalign. In this instance you'll need to wash the track and apply a thin coating of lubricant to let the rollers glide easily.

It can be caused by damage or wear to the hinges connecting the door panels that house some of these rollers, springs (whether torsion or extensions); and cables which lift the door. If damaged or worn out, these components can affect the alignment of the rollers, causing resistance as well as other issues such as an increased weight of the door or energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections will ensure that these components are in sync to keep your patio doors operating smoothly.

Create a crow's foot at one end, and use a trammingstick to sweep across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process at the opposite side of the track, and then divide by 2 to get a measurement of the parallelism of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as precise as using pi tapes to measure diameter directly, but it's faster and easier than measuring each individual rail with a level, or carpenter's level.

Another method of checking roller alignment is to remove the head stop, a flat plate on the door jamb at bottom of the frame that blocks the rollers. If the door is very heavy, you may need help taking off the grilles and shades that are removable. After taking off the head stop, remove the head track adjusters screws by securing them with a screwdriver. Then, reinstalling the assembly and aligning each adjustment screw with the hole that it is accessible through, and tapping it with the hammer.

Dirty tracks or damaged tracks

Sliding patio doors can serve as magnets for debris, dirt and other outside elements. They can also be susceptible to misalignment and other issues that may require professional repair. To prolong the lifespan of your patio doors, it is crucial to recognize and fix these problems as soon as you can.

One of the most frequent reasons for sliding patio doors to malfunction is filthy tracks. Over time dirt and other particles such as food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris, could get trapped in the narrow spaces between the tracks of your sliding doors which can cause it to get stuck or difficult to open. To avoid problems like this, it's recommended to vacuum and clean your patio door tracks at least once each month. After you've cleared all the debris that is loose and dirt, you can use a non-abrasive household cleaning solution or warm soapy water to clean 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 out these tiny spaces.

You should also lubricate the tracks frequently to prevent your sliding door from becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors it is recommended to apply silicone spray to the bottom track on a frequent basis. You can also use paraffin wax to enhance the glide.

Another common issue that can affect your sliding patio door is a air leak or draft. This could happen if the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has worn away or has been damaged. This can lead to a gap between your sliding patio door and the frame. This allows air to enter and decreases the efficiency of energy. Check that your weatherstripping is in good order and replace it if necessary.

Over time, your patio door may experience normal wear. These issues aren't usually a sign of an urgent issue. In the majority of cases, minor repairs can extend the life of your patio door and keep it operating properly. Consult a professional for any issues as soon they are apparent to save on costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is cracked or warped

A cracked or warped patio door can be a major eyesore and a potential security risk. It could also allow in unwanted animals and cause your home temperature fluctuate wildly. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple to fix if you catch them early.

A quick glance at the glass can help determine what type of repair is needed. Cracks in glass are usually caused by impact or stress. These are more difficult to repair than chips on the surface. A professional may need to re-lead this panel. This will require removing the glass and cleaning it, as well as replacing broken pieces. To ensure that the new glass to the original, a professional needs precise documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.

Sometimes, a crack in the glass can be filled with plastic epoxy. It is available in a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will typically use a soldering iron to melt the plastic, then apply it to the cracks in the glass. Once the plastic has cooled down and the professional has removed any excess.


If Repair My Windows And Doors isn't too big, there might be a possibility of repairing it using clear sealant. You can purchase this kind of product from any hardware store. It is important to dry the crack thoroughly before applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or other fan can be used to speed up this procedure.

Weatherstripping damaged

A worn out weather stripping is not only unsightly and a security hazard, but it also allows air from outside to enter and cold or hot air escape. A quick fix with a new piece of weather stripping could save you money while keeping your home more comfortable.

Ensure you have the right tools and materials. This includes a new weather stripping kit or adhesive/caulk sealant (depending on the repair method) tools, scissors, pliers, a utility knife, and some gloves or goggles that are protective. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting the end piece and then pulling it up along with any screws for attachment when applicable. Remove any remaining pieces with pliers and a plier.

If you decide to replace the weather stripping, start by measuring the distance around the door frame. The measurements can be used to determine the length of weather stripping you will require. Be sure to leave a little bit of extra length to fine-tune the fit later. Once you've found the perfect size then apply the backing with adhesive and press it against the frame. If desired, tack it to the frame with a small nail or hammer.

Apply wood filler onto the frame to cover any divots or holes. Let the filler dry completely before painting. It is recommended to use oil-based paints, however, latex paint can also be used.

The last thing to do is make sure you clean your sliding tracks and doors regularly. By taking the time to do this will prevent sticking and other problems in the future. Repairing and maintaining your patio doors will ensure that they remain attractive, functional and energy efficient. If you do this you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence and save money at the same time! Happy home-fixing!