Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors give homeowners fresh air and light, and they increase a home's value. However, with time, they may create issues that must be addressed swiftly.
Understanding how patio doors function can help homeowners communicate with a contractor regarding the issues they experience. Here are some common repairs for patio doors:.
Rollers that aren't aligned properly
It's not always easy to open a sliding patio door. Most of these non-cooperative sliding patio doors can be fixed with some cleaning and oiling in the event that a structural issue is present. Most often dirt on the lower track can cause the bottom track and rollers to misalign. In this case, clean the track thoroughly and apply a thin layer of lubricant so that the rollers can glide easily.
In addition, misalignment can be caused because of wear or damage in the hinges that connect the doors that house some of the rollers; springs either torsion or extension and cables, which lift the door. If damaged or worn out these components could affect roller alignment, causing resistance, as well as an increased weight of the door or energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections will ensure that these components are working together to ensure that your patio doors are operating smoothly.
To check roller-to-roller alignment, set up an eagle's foot at the one end of the track. Then use a tramming stick to sweep across both rollers, noting the distance they travel. Repeat the process at the opposite end of the track, then divide by 2 to obtain a reading of the rollers' parallelism (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using pi tape to measure diameter directly. However, it's quicker and easier than using a carpenter's or level to measure each rail.
You can also check the alignment of the rollers by removing the head stop. This is an aluminum plate located in the bottom of your door jamb. It stops the rollers. This requires removing any grilles or shades that are removable, and if the door is heavy, you should seek assistance in this process. After removing the head stop remove the head track adjustments screws by backing them up 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 a hammer.
Dirty or damaged tracks
Patio doors that slide open can serve as magnets for debris, dirt and other elements outside. They are also susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues which may require professional repair. To extend the life of your patio door, identifying and addressing these problems early on is essential.
Dirty tracks are among the most common causes of sliding patio door malfunctions. Over time, dirt, food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris could get trapped within the narrow spaces of your sliding door track and cause the door to stick or become difficult to open. It is recommended to clean and vacuum your tracks of your patio doors every month, at minimum, to avoid these problems. After you've removed all of 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 that certain areas of the track are harder to clean, try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean these tiny spaces.
It is also important to grease the tracks on a regular basis to prevent your sliding door from becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you own Panda patio doors, it is recommended that you add silicone spray to the bottom track on a regular basis. You can also rub paraffin wax on the track to enhance glide.
Air leaks or drafts can also impact your sliding patio doors. This could happen if the weather stripping on your sliding patio door is worn or has been damaged. This can cause a gap between your sliding patio door and the frame. This lets air in and reduces the energy efficiency. Make sure that your weatherstripping is in good condition and replace it when needed.
Over time, your patio door may see normal wear and tear. These issues aren't usually a sign of an urgent problem. repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk can extend the life of your patio door. Get in touch with a professional as soon when you spot any issues to avoid costly repairs.
Warped or cracked glass
A patio door that is cracked or warped could be a major eye-sore, and it could pose an security risk. It can also let in unwanted creatures and cause your home's temperature fluctuate dramatically. Thankfully, these problems are usually easy to fix when they are caught early.
First, a quick look at the glass can determine the type of repair is needed. Generally, cracks in glass are due to stress or impact. These are a little more difficult to repair than simple chipping on the surface. A professional will probably require re-leading the panel. This will require taking the glass off and replacing any broken pieces. This is why an expert will require precise documentation of the piece in its original form to ensure that the new glass with the old one.
Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. It can be purchased at a hardware store or the home improvement section in many stores. A professional will employ the soldering tool to melt the plastic and then apply it to the crack. After it has been cooled, the professional will clean any excess.
If the crack in the glass is not too large, there could be a chance to repair it with clear sealant. This kind of product can be found at any hardware store. It is important to dry the crack thoroughly prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer or other fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A worn-out weather stripping not only looks bad and is a security risk it also lets outside air and heat to escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping inside your home.
First, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. You'll need an additional weather-stripping kit, or adhesive or caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you decide to use) as well as pliers and scissors, a utility knife and gloves or goggles that are protective and a new weather-stripping kit. Remove the old weather stripping, by cutting through an end piece and pulling it up with any screws attached, if necessary. Remove any remaining pieces with the pliers and a prybar.
Start by measuring the gap around the door frame. Use the measurements to determine the size of weather stripping you require. Make sure you leave a little extra length to fine-tune the size later. Once you have the right size then apply the backing of the adhesive and press it against the frame. If you wish, nail it to the frame with a small nail or hammer.
Apply wood filler to the frame to cover any holes or divots. Let the filler dry completely prior to applying any paint. In general, it is best to apply oil-based paint on the filler, however latex paint can also be used.
Lastly, make sure to clean your sliding doors and tracks regularly. This will avoid future issues such as sticking. Keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they stay practical, attractive, and energy-efficient. You'll save money while enjoying the great outdoors while doing so. Happy home-fixing!