Why Patio Doors Repairs Still Matters In 2023 Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors provide homeowners with natural light and fresh air and enhance the value of a house. However, with time, they may develop issues that need to be addressed quickly.

Understanding how patio doors function will help homeowners communicate better with contractors about problems they face. Here are some of the most frequently encountered patio door problems:

Rollers that aren't aligned properly

It's not always easy to open a sliding patio door. The majority of these uncooperative sliding patio doors can be repaired easily with a bit of oiling and cleaning, unless a structural problem is present. The most frequent cause is dirt on the lower track, which may cause the rollers to be pushed against the track below and cause them to misalign. In this instance, clean the track thoroughly and apply the lubricant in a thin layer to allow the rollers to glide smoothly.

In addition, misalignment can be caused due to wear or damage in the hinges that join the door panels, which house some of the rollers; springs that are either extension or torsion; 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 working together to keep your patio doors operating smoothly.

To verify the alignment between rollers, set up an eagle's foot at one end of the track. Then use a tramming stick to sweep across both rollers, noting the distance they travel. Repeat the process on the opposite side of the track, and divide by 2 to get a reading of the parallelism of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using pi tapes to measure diameter directly, but it's more efficient and less time-consuming 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. This will require removing any removable grilles or shades and, when the door is heavy, obtaining help with this step. After taking off the head stop, remove the head track adjusters screws by securing them with the screwdriver. After reinstalling the assembly by aligning each screw for adjustment to its access hole, then tapping it with the Hammer.

Tracks that are dirty or damaged

Sliding patio door can act as an attraction for dirt, debris and other elements. They can also be susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues that could require professional repair services. To extend the lifespan of your patio door, identifying and addressing these problems in the early stages is crucial.

One of the most common causes for sliding patio doors to malfunction is filthy tracks. Over time, dirt, food debris, pet hair, and yard debris can get stuck in the small spaces of the track of your sliding door which can cause the door to become stuck or become difficult to open. It is recommended that you vacuum and clean the tracks of your patio door at least once a month to avoid these problems. You can clean your patio door tracks using a non-abrasive cleaning solution, or warm soapy tap water after having removed any loose debris. If you notice that certain parts of the track are harder to clean, try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean these small spaces.

In addition to cleaning the tracks, it is recommended to keep them lubricated to prevent your sliding door from sticking or becoming 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 improve the glide.

A draft or a leak of air can also impact your sliding patio doors. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has damaged or worn out. This can cause a gap between the frame and the door that allows air to enter and reduce the efficiency of energy. Make sure that your weather stripping is in good shape and replace it if required.

Over time your patio door could be subject to normal wear and tear. These problems are usually not indicative of a major problem. Small repairs can prolong the lifespan of your patio door. Get a professional in touch to fix any issues as soon they appear to avoid costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is cracked or warped

A patio door that is cracked or warped could be a major eye-sore and could be security risks. It also allows in unwanted critters and make your home temperature fluctuate wildly. These issues are simple to fix if caught early.

A quick glance at the glass will aid in determining what kind of repairs are needed. Cracks in glass are usually caused by impact or stress. These are a little more difficult to fix than normal cracks in the surface. A professional may require re-leading the panel. This will require the removal of the glass, cleaning it, and replacing the broken pieces. To ensure that the new glass to the old one, a professional requires precise documentation of how the piece looked at the time.

Sometimes, a crack in the glass can be filled with plastic epoxy. It can be bought from a hardware store or the home improvement section in many stores. A professional will usually use an iron soldering to melt the plastic then apply it to the cracks in the glass. After the plastic has cooled down it is then removed by the professional any excess.

If the glass crack isn't too big, there might be a chance of repairing it with clear sealant. This type of product is available at any hardware store. It is essential to dry the crack completely prior to applying sealant. This will prevent the repair from failing. You can accelerate the process by using a hair dryer or other fan.

Weatherstripping damaged

A weather stripping that is worn out not only looks bad and is a security risk it also lets outside air in and heat out. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping inside your home.


First, ensure that you have all the necessary tools and supplies. You'll need an additional weather-stripping kit, or adhesive/caulk sealing agents (depending on the repair method you select), pliers and scissors, a utility blade as well as protective gloves or goggles and a new weather-stripping kit. Then, remove the old weather stripping by cutting through the end piece and then pulling it up along with any screws that attach it, if applicable. Remove any remaining pieces with pliers and a prybar.

Start by measuring the gap around the door frame. You can use the measurements to determine the amount of weather stripping that you require. Make sure to leave some extra length for later fine-tuning. Once you have the correct size then apply the backing of the adhesive and press it against the frame. If desired, use a small nail to tack the frame to the wall.

Finally, apply some wood filler to any divots or holes in the frame. Let patio door repairs before painting. It is recommended to use oil-based paints, however, latex can also be used.

Lastly, make sure to clean your tracks and sliding doors regularly. Taking the time to do this prevents sticking and other issues later on. Cleaning and maintaining your patio doors will ensure that they remain functional, attractive and energy efficient. If you do this you will be able to enjoy the outdoors with confidence, and save money in the process! Happy home-fixing!