10 Patio Doors Repairs Related Projects That Can Stretch Your Creativity Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors offer homeowners natural fresh air and light and can increase a home's value. In time, however, they may develop problems that require immediate attention.

Understanding how patio doors operate will help homeowners communicate better with contractors about issues they face. Here are some common patio door repairs:.

Rollers that aren't aligned properly

It's not always simple to open a patio sliding door. The majority of these uncooperative sliding patio doors can be repaired easily by a little oiling and cleaning, unless a structural problem is present. Typically dirt in the lower track can cause the bottom track and rollers to become misaligned. In this situation you'll need to wash the track and apply a light coating of lubricant, allowing the rollers glide smoothly.

The misalignment 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 that lift the door. When these components are damaged or worn, may affect roller alignment and cause resistance, as well as other issues, like a heavier feeling door or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and regular inspections by a professional can help ensure that these components work harmoniously to keep your patio door operating smoothly.

Install a crow's feet at one end and use the trammingstick to move across the rollers. Take note of the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process on the other end of the track, and divide by 2 to get a reading of the rollers' parallelism (Photo 1). This method is not 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.

click this link for checking roller alignment is to remove the head stop, a flat plate that is located on the door jamb at the bottom of the frame, which stops the rollers. This will require removing any grilles or shades that are removable and, when the door is heavy, you should seek assistance with this step. After removing the head stop take out the head track adjustment screws by backing them up with a screwdriver. Then, reinstalling the assembly by aligning each roller adjustment screw to its access hole, then tapping it with the hammer.

Dirty or damaged tracks

Patio doors that slide open can act as magnets for dirt, debris and other elements outside. They also are susceptible to misalignment, and other issues that require professional repair. To extend the life of your patio door, finding and fixing these issues in the early stages is crucial.

Dirty tracks are among 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 can get caught in the tiny spaces between the tracks of your sliding doors, causing it to get stuck or difficult to open. It is recommended to vacuum and clean the tracks of your patio doors every month at a minimum to avoid problems. You can clean your patio door tracks with a non-abrasive cleaning solution, or with warm soapy tap water after having removed any loose debris. If you find that certain parts of the track are difficult to clean, you can use the butter knife or toothbrush to clean these small areas.

It is also important to grease the tracks frequently to prevent your sliding door becoming stuck or 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 along the track to enhance the glide.

Another issue that could impact your sliding patio door is draft or air leak. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is damaged or worn out. This could cause gaps between your sliding patio door and the frame. This lets air in and reduces the energy efficiency. Make sure that your weather stripping is in good working order and replace it if needed.

Over time your patio door will be subject to normal wear and tear. These issues are not usually an indication of a serious issue. In most cases, minor repairs can help extend the life of your patio door and keep it functioning properly. Consult a professional for any problems as soon as they occur to avoid costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is cracked or warped

A damaged or cracked patio door is an eyesore and a potential security risk. It could also allow in unwanted animals and cause your home temperature fluctuate wildly. Thankfully, these problems are usually simple to fix when they are caught early.

A quick glance at the glass can aid in determining what kind of repairs are needed. Generally, cracks in the glass are due to stress or impact. They are more difficult to repair than chips on the surface. A professional will probably need to replace the lead on this panel. This will mean taking the glass off and replacing any broken pieces. To help match the new glass to the old, a professional needs accurate documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.

Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. It can be purchased at hardware stores or in the home improvement section of a lot of stores. A professional will employ an soldering tool to melt the plastic then apply it to the crack. After it has been cool, the professional can wipe away any excess.

If the glass crack is small, there may be a chance to repair it with clear sealant. This type of product can be found at any hardware store. However, it is crucial to thoroughly dry the damaged area before applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or other fan can be used to expedite this process.

Weatherstripping damaged

A damaged weather stripping is not just ugly and a security risk but it also allows outside air to seep in and cold or heat escape. A simple fix using a new piece of weather stripping can save you money and make your home more comfortable.

First, make sure you have all the tools and materials. This includes a new weather stripping kit or adhesive/caulk sealant (depending on the repair method) tools, scissors, pliers, utility knife, as well as gloves or protective goggles. Remove the weather stripping that was used previously by cutting through the end piece, and then pulling it back up with any screws attached if appropriate. Then remove any pieces still left in the pliers or pry bar.

If you decide to replace the weather stripping, begin by measuring the distance around the door frame. You can use these measurements to determine the amount of weather stripping that you will require. Be sure to leave a little extra length so that you can refine the fit later. Once you have the right size you can apply the backing with adhesive and press it against the frame. If desired you want to, use a nail to secure the frame to the wall.


Apply wood filler onto the frame to cover any holes or divots. Let the filler completely dry before painting. Ideally, it's best to apply oil-based paint over the filler, however latex paint is also a good choice.

Also, ensure that you clean your sliding doors and tracks regularly. This will help prevent future issues like sticking. Maintaining regular maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they are functional, attractive, and energy-efficient. If you do this you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence and save some money at the same time! Happy fixing your home!