What's The Reason? Patio Doors Repairs Is Everywhere This Year Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors provide homeowners with natural light and fresh air and enhance the value of a house. In time, however, they may develop problems that require immediate attention.

Understanding how patio doors function will help homeowners communicate better with contractors about issues they face. Here are some of the most common repairs to patio doors:.

Rollers that aren't aligned properly

Sometimes the sliding patio door will get stuck and it's not easy to get it open once more. Most of these sluggish sliding patio doors can be repaired easily with a bit of oiling and cleaning in the event that a structural issue is present. The most common culprit is dirt in the lower track, which can cause the rollers to be pushed against the track below and cause them to be misaligned. In patio door repair , you'll need to clean the track and apply a thin coat of lubricant so that the rollers glide smoothly.

It can 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 these components are damaged or worn, may alter the alignment of rollers and cause resistance, as well as other issues, such as a heavier feeling door or a rise in energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these parts are in good working order to keep your patio doors operating smoothly.

Create a crow's foot at one end. Use the tramming stick to sweep across the rollers. Take note of the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process at the opposite end of the track, and divide by 2 to obtain a reading of the rollers' parallelism (Photo 1). This method isn't as exact as using pi tape to measure the length directly. It is however, faster and easier than using a carpenter's or level to determine the rail's diameter.


You can also test the alignment of the rollers by taking off the head stop. This is an elongated plate that is located at the bottom of your door jamb. It stops the rollers. If the door is heavy you may require assistance in taking off the grilles and shades that are removable. After removing the head stop take out the head track adjustment screws by securing them with the screwdriver. After reinstalling the assembly and aligning each screw for adjustment to the hole that it is accessible through, and tapping it with the hammer.

Tracks that are dirty or damaged

The sliding patio door acts as an attraction for dirt, debris and other elements. They are also susceptible to misalignment, and other issues that may require professional repairs. To prolong the lifespan of your patio door, finding and fixing these issues in the early stages is crucial.

One of the main causes for sliding patio doors to fail is filthy tracks. Over time, dirt and other debris like pet hair, food crumbs and yard debris, could be trapped in the small spaces between the tracks of your sliding doors, causing it to become stuck or difficult to open. It is recommended to vacuum and clean the tracks of your patio doors every month, at minimum, to avoid these problems. Once you've removed all the debris that is loose and dirt, you can use a non-abrasive household cleaning solution or warm soapy water to wipe down your patio door tracks. If you notice that some areas of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or toothbrush to scrub these tiny areas.

In addition to cleaning the tracks, it is recommended to be sure to lubricate them frequently to avoid sliding doors from squeezing or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we suggest applying silicone spray to the bottom track on a regular basis. You can also apply paraffin wax to enhance the glide.

Air leaks or drafts can also affect your sliding patio doors. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is worn out or damaged. This could cause gaps between the frame and door that allows air to come in and reduces energy efficiency. Check that your weather stripping is in good working order and replace it if necessary.

With consistent use, your patio door will go through normal wear and tear over time. These problems are usually not a sign of an urgent issue. In most cases, small repairs can help extend the lifespan of your patio door and keep it running smoothly. Contact a professional as soon when you spot any issues to avoid costly repairs.

Glass that is cracked or warped

A patio door that's cracked or warped could be a major eye-sore and can pose security risks. It can also permit unwanted animals into your home and cause the temperature to fluctuate. Fortunately, these issues are usually simple to fix when they are 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. They are more difficult to repair than chips that are on the surface. A professional may have to replace the lead on this panel. This will require the removal of the glass clean it, and replacing broken pieces. To do this, a professional will need accurate documentation of the glass as it looked originally to ensure that the new glass with the original.

Sometimes, a crack in the glass can be filled with plastic epoxy. You can purchase this at a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will employ the soldering tool to melt the plastic then apply it on the crack. After the plastic has cooled down, 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. You can purchase this kind of product at any hardware store. It is crucial to dry the crack completely prior to 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 weather stripping that is worn out is not just ugly and a security hazard, but it also allows outside air to seep in and cold or hot air to escape. A simple fix using a new piece of weather stripping can save you money while keeping your home more comfortable.

Ensure you have the right tools and materials. You'll require a new weather-stripping kit or adhesive or caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you choose), pliers and scissors, a utility blade, protective goggles or gloves, and a replacement weather-stripping kit. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting one end piece, then pulling it up, along with any attaching screws if applicable. Remove any remaining pieces with pliers and a plier.

Start by measuring the gap around the door frame. Utilize the measurements to determine the size of weather stripping you need. Make sure you leave a little bit of extra length so that you can refine the fit later. Once you've found the perfect size, apply the backing of the 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 divots or holes. Let the filler dry completely before applying any paint. Ideally, it's best to apply oil-based paint over the filler, however latex paint is also a good choice.

Finally, be sure to clean your sliding doors and tracks regularly. Taking the time to do this prevents sticking and other problems down the road. Maintaining regular maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they remain attractive, functional and energy efficient. You'll save money and enjoy the great outdoors while doing it. Enjoy your home improvement projects!