10 Misconceptions Your Boss Holds About Patio Doors Repairs
Sliding Patio Doors Repairs
Your sliding patio doors will bring in natural light to your home and improve its energy efficiency. However, as time passes, they could show signs of wear and tear, which will require some attention.
Luckily, the majority of issues with sliding patio doors are fairly easy to fix. Learn more about how you can keep your patio doors looking and working like new:.
Tracks that are damaged or dirty
One of the most frequent causes of sliding patio doors that don't open is dirty or clogged tracks. Over time, the dirt and grime from everyday use can accumulate on the track. This could cause the door jam to become damaged or break completely.
The buildup can be slowed by including regular light cleanings of sliding doors and tracks during your regular chores. Start by sweeping or vacuuming large debris off the tracks. Then, use warm water and non-abrasive cleaning products like dish soap to wipe them down. Vinegar can be added to your cleaning solution to remove stubborn grease and dirt stains.
If your sliding door still won't move smoothly after completing these steps, it could be the sign of more severe damage that requires professional repair or replacement. There are a few easy fixes you can do before calling a professional to avoid expensive repairs or replacements.
It is essential to put a doormat at the bottom of your sliding doors to keep dirt out before it has a chance to reach the tracks. Make sure to trim the plants and bushes that are in close proximity to your sliding door to reduce the amount of debris that gets tracked into the tracks. Finally, be sure to close the door in a way that it doesn't crash into the tracks and cause damage to the wheels and rollers. By keeping your doors clean and lubricated, you will extend their life considerably.
Misaligned Rollers
Occasionally, a sliding patio door becomes out of alignment or becomes stuck. It is usually due to obstructions or dirt that can be easily fixed. However, it can also be the result of a bent track or roller. In this case it is possible to straighten the roller by taking them out by using the adjustment screws and cleaning them using rubbing alcohol. Be careful when working with these parts, as they can be delicate.
If your doors are sticking, you can lubricate the rollers. This will decrease friction and allow them to move more easily. It is best to apply a silicone-based lubricant since petroleum-based ones tend to draw dirt more quickly. It is crucial to clean the rollers and tracks before applying lubricant.
After you've cleaned your rollers, you can reinstall them with the adjustment screws. It is also a good idea to use the same lubricant you used for cleaning them. When reinstalling the rollers, make sure you push them completely into their channels. You can test the door and see if it slides smoothly.
If the issue persists, it is possible to take the door off and check the rollers and tracks. If the tracks or wheels are bent badly it could be necessary to replace them. In such a scenario it's best to call in an expert to install the tracks.
Warped Glass
Sliding glass door are great for bringing the outdoors into your home and letting in natural sunlight however, they can also be prone to damage that requires repair or replacement. The most frequent problems that arise are cracking, warping and fade. Warping happens when the materials that comprise your sliding glass patio door begin to degrade as a result of exposure to heat, sun and other environmental factors. Cracking often results from injuries caused by impact, like from a lawn mower or ball run-in, while fading usually happens due to repeated contact with sunlight or other natural elements.
If your sliding glass patio doors are difficult to close or open it could indicate that their rollers and tracks are not functioning correctly. This issue may result from accumulation of dirt, rust or debris in the track, wheels that are not aligned or the lack of lubrication. Cleaning the tracks and rollers clearing obstructions and applying silicone spray may help solve this issue.
The locking mechanism might be faulty and make it difficult to open and close your sliding patio doors. This could be caused by an issue with alignment or wear and tear, but a simple fix is to adjust the locking mechanisms by turning the adjustment screws hidden on the bottom of the track.
Drafts or air leaks that occur around your sliding patio doors are a common issue that can significantly decrease their energy efficiency. These issues are typically caused by weather stripping that has worn out or poor alignment of the door. This can be fixed easily by replacing the weather stripping, and re-aligning your doors.
Loose Handle
If the handle of a sliding doors is loose, it can be quite frustrating and cause it difficult for people to open the door. This is due to a misaligned lock mechanism. It can be repaired by tightening and loosening the screws that hold it in the correct position.
patio door repair that is commonly cited for a handle to become loose is that it has become detached from the spindle that connects the handles on the exterior and interior. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including excessive use, wear-and-tear or just aging. If the issue isn't addressed quickly, it could eventually result in the entire handle becoming loose and eventually falling off completely.
To fix this problem, you should first locate the screws that connect the handles' exterior and interior. They are usually concealed by plastic tabs, which can be removed using a flathead screwdriver (or in the case of certain handles, a Phillips-head screwdriver). Store these screws safely to prevent them from being lost.
After removing the old handles then the next step would be to remove the spindle. You can do this by pounding the end of the spindle with an hammer until freed from its position within the door. The new handle is installed by inserting the spindle in the interior handle hole and the other end into the hole on the outside of the handle. After the handle is installed then tighten it by screwing back the screws, and then test to make sure the lock and unlock mechanism is working properly.
Poor weatherstripping
Weatherstripping that is damaged or cracked may allow water and air to get into your patio door, which can compromise your home's comfort and energy efficiency. It can let in moisture and create drafts, which will increase your heating and cooling costs. It is good news that replacing damaged weatherstripping is an easy fix that doesn't require professional help. First, you must take off the old stripping by loosening its staples with a screwdriver or prying it gently using a putty knife and then taking it off the door. Then, you can clean the area and apply a new layer of weatherstripping that is backed by a foam seal to prevent leaks and enhance the comfort.
If your sliding patio doors aren't longer functioning as they should, it's important to take action immediately to prevent any further damage and ensure they remain in good condition for the long term. Depending on the severity of the problem is the best option is it's possible to choose a DIY solution or a repair/replacement by a professional may be the best choice.
The most frequent issues that are encountered with sliding patio doors are dirty rollers due to debris in the tracks, misaligned wheels and a loose handle. These issues are usually resolved by regular cleaning and maintenance including lubricating and adjusting the track, and tightening the hardware. However, if these measures don't work, it's best consult a professional for advice to make sure that your patio door is operating exactly as it should. If you decide to replace or repair your patio door, be sure to verify the warranty information to make sure that it is covered under the manufacturer's guarantee. This will save you money in the long run on repairs and replacements.