Repair Patio Doors: 10 Things I Wish I'd Known Earlier How to Repair Patio Doors

Sliding patio doors improve the aesthetics of a home and offer convenience and energy efficiency. However they require regular maintenance in order to function in the way they were designed to.

These simple steps will assist you in extending the longevity of your doors and reduce costly repairs. In some instances, the expertise of a professional may be required for more severe damage.

Clear the Tracks

If the sliding patio door gets stuck in its tracks, it may be difficult to open and close. Fortunately, this is a simple problem to solve. In most cases, it's just lubricating the door that's needed to get it moving.

Cleaning regularly your sliding patio doors and their tracks can reduce the accumulation of dirt that can impede track operation. Every week, vacuum or brush your tracks and sill to remove dirt particles larger than. Then employ a soft sponge or cloth with mild soap and warm water to clean them down and wash them thoroughly. You can also scrub stubborn stains on the tracks with a small brush, but make sure not to scratch or damage them. Make sure you reach all the corners and crevices of the tracks and sill including the narrow spaces and corners.

After the tracks and sill have been cleaned, they should be cleaned with an unlint-free cloth and dried with a paper towel. If you have white vinegar in your house, it can be used to remove stains that are stubborn on the sill and tracks. To do so apply a small amount of vinegar to a soft cloth, and then rub the area that has the stain. If the stain remains then try rubbing them using a small brush or an old toothbrush and then rinse with water.

Keep your sliding patio doors and tracks clean will help them last longer and aid in making to run more smoothly. It is a good idea to clean them at the same time that you would your windows. In addition, be certain to check the weather strip that surrounds your patio doors regularly and replace it immediately if it becomes worn or damaged. This is an essential step in reducing your energy bills and ensuring indoor comfort. If you notice drafts or a rise in your cooling and heating bills, then it may be time to replace your patio doors that are more efficient in insulation.

Lubricate the Locks

To ensure smooth operation the lock mechanism needs to be fluidized. This will also prolong the longevity of the lock because it won't be subjected to unnecessary tears and wear. You can apply graphite lock grease or light machine oil. Using the right lubricant will help prevent the buildup of gunk that can cause the delicate pins within the lock to be damaged.

Graphite is a fantastic lubricant for the lock cylinder, since it doesn't get soiled or attract dirt. This dry lubricant can be found in most hardware stores. It is available in a squeeze-bottle that allows you to blow the powder directly into the lock. Insert your key, and then move it back and forth to spread the graphite throughout the lock.

You can also spray WD-40 directly into the lock's cylinder. This will give you an instant burst lubrication however it may be too strong for certain locks. If the cylinder seems to be stuck, try working your key inside and out of the lock several times to spread the WD-40 over all of the internal components that require it.

Teflon based Lubricants made of Teflon can also be used. These lubricants can withstand extreme temperatures and are extremely durable, which makes them an excellent choice for a lock. They also resist water and can help prevent rust, which can be detrimental to other types lubricants.

If you notice that your sliding patio door is a bit difficult to close or open the door, it could be caused by the locking mechanism not aligned correctly with the frame. If you're unable to fix the issue yourself, it's usually best to contact an expert locksmith. They can take a closer look at the lock to discover what's causing it to be stiff or difficult to operate, and they can also install new springs and rollers to bring back the functionality of your patio door. If necessary, they can help you select the right locks to replace the ones that are damaged. So, you don't have to worry about losing your keys or experiencing a broken locks on your doors ever again!

Adjust the Rollers

Incorrectly aligned tracks or rollers can cause patio doors to be difficult to open and close. The fix for stuck doors can be easy if one or more of the above issues are present. If the issue persists and you feel drafts or see an increase in your cooling and heating costs, it may be time to replace your doors.

If the tracks and latch are clean The next thing to check is the rollers. The rollers are a crucial component of a sliding track and when they're worn or damaged they could cause the doors to slam. To remove the rollers using a Phillips screwdriver, push them up gently by removing the screws that hold them in the position.

You can easily remove the screws and replace the rollers if needed. The majority of patio door systems utilize steel wheels, which can rust with time. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors have plastic wheels, which last a lot longer than the steel ones do. If your wheels are old and rusty, you'll likely need to replace the entire system of rollers and track.

If the rollers are working well, you should be able to make adjustments to the alignment with the adjustment screws on the bottom of the track. (The screwdriver you used to remove the rollers will also work). These screws tighten or loosen track to make sure it is positioned correctly. Once you've got it right, your door will be in complete contact with the track and there shouldn’t be any gaps.

After the adjustment, spray lubricant containing silicone on the tracks and rollers. Apply a thick coat of lubricant and then slide the door back and forth several times to spread it out. When the lubricant has dried and the door is open, you should be able to shut and open your patio door without any problems. If you're still having issues you should contact your Milgard window dealer for assistance. They can show you how to fix the problem and assist you in finding the problem.


Replace the Glass

Patio doors are ideal for bringing sunlight into your home and offer stunning views of nature. However, they can also be an issue for security as a cracked window could allow burglars to break into your home. Replacing the glass on these doors is important to ensure that they are safe and operating properly.

If your patio door glass has shattered, it may appear to be a difficult task to replace the glass. If you follow the correct instructions replacing a window on a patio door is actually very simple. It is possible to complete this without removing the door from its frame. To begin, you must remove the trim around your glass, also known as the mull. Use a putty knife to slide between the trim and the door, then use a small pry bar and hammer for easing it off. Wear gloves and long sleeves to prevent damaging the trim.

After removing the old glass clean the area to remove all broken glass. Wipe the frame. Duct tape any cracks on the frame to help strengthen it. Then, you are able to begin to reassemble the door. Make sure to take measurements of (and note the thickness) the original glass before you begin. This will allow you to ensure that the replacement glass is the right size and thickness.

After reassembling the frame apply a clear silicone caulk to the edges of the opening. This will stop air or water from getting into the gap and damaging the glass. Once the caulk has dried, slide the new window into place. Then use the glazing points to hold it. Once the glass is secure, replace the stops and tap into the brad nails with the nail punch.

Patio doors not only provide an amazing view but they also increase the energy efficiency of your home by reducing transfer of cold and heat from the inside to the outside. They can also add an extra level of protection from storms and other elements that could cause damage to windows and cause leaks.