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How to Repair a Sliding Patio Door

A variety of issues can make it difficult to operate sliding patio doors. Luckily, most of these problems are easily solved.

Cleaning your sliding patio door is the simplest way to fix it. Use a brush and some soapy water to wash the tracks. Next you can apply lubrication to increase their mobility.

1. Dirty or damaged tracks

Dirt and debris in the track are the main reason for a sticky patio door. Bird droppings, pine straw as well as salt and sand from winter roads, and other nasties things can block the track. This is the reason it's crucial to clean and lubricate your sliding doors on a regular basis.

Put on some rubber goggles and gloves to shield your eyes. Clean the tracks using an air vac or brushes to get rid of loose gunk. Then, mix equal amounts of white vinegar and water in the spray bottle. Spray a small amount of the solution onto your cleaning brushes and scrub the sill and track. Rinse the area dry it off with paper towels to avoid scratching or further damage to the track and sill.

After the tracks have been cleaned, use a toothbrush to scrub the areas that are stuck. You can also sand rough spots on the bottom tracks. You can then replenish the wheels with lubricant to ensure smooth operation.

A misaligned door could be the result of misaligned rollers. This can be fixed by changing the rollers' height as well as their position. It's a good idea replace the weather stripping that surrounds the door when you do this to ensure a snug fit and increase the efficiency of your energy.

Leaking tracks can be a serious issue that can result in mold growth and structural damage within your home. If the leak is confined to a particular section of the track, you may be able fix it yourself by re-sealing the joint. If however, the issue is extensive, it's best to call in a professional to repair the patio door.

2. Broken or damaged screen

A patio door that doesn't allow for adequate airflow could make your home feel stale and uncomfortable. It could also be a welcoming entry point for pests and mosquitoes. If you've got a damaged screen or notice fog growing between the panes of glass it's recommended to seek professional assistance immediately.

If you have an old screen on your sliding patio door, it is simple to replace it with a new screen. Screen material is available in pre-measured rolls that should accommodate the majority of door sizes. It's also available as complete screen repair kits that contain the screen as well as the spline, roller and roller in a single package.

For the installation of the new screen, begin by finding a solid surface you can work from and then laying your new material on it. Then, use your scissors to cut it to length to ensure that an inch or two of the screen covers on each side of the frame. Then with your utility blade, remove the old spline as well any screen that is not needed.

Now patio doors repairs near me can lay out the new screen spline, beginning at the bottom left corner of the frame. Work your way around until you reach the perimeter. After the spline is put in place, use your screen rolling tool to push it into the groove. Trim any excess spline and screen using your utility knife making sure not to cut the inner frame of the window. Check the spline and see if there are any ripples or distortions. Adjust the screen if necessary.

3. Seals that leak

If you notice that water is pooling around the patio door or becoming stuck between the glass panes, it's an obvious sign that your seals and frames are deteriorating. This can lead to rot and mold, not to mention increased energy costs due to air leakage and drafts.

Incorrectly installed flashing and caulking can lead to leaky seals. It is important to hire an experienced professional who is able to install patio doors and ensure that the frame is properly caulked and flashed.

You'll want to fill in any cracks or gaps with caulking that is designed for your specific kind of weather. For instance, if you live in a humid climate such as Ontario, you'll want to select a caulking product that can stand up to moisture.

Another reason for leaky seals is when the shims beneath the door frame aren't put in the right place. These are typically made from wood and are used to keep the sheathing in line with the framing, however if they're not placed correctly, they can create an opening that allows moisture to enter your home.

One way to test your seals is by spraying the frame using a hose or garden nozzle. If you notice a mist coming in through these areas, it's time to contact a professional examine the frame at the installation. It's possible to add a little caulking or change the shims. Either way, addressing these issues quickly can prevent costly repairs and damages down the road. It is always best to repair your patio door or frame before it's too late to put off the repair.





4. Warped Frame

When wood is exposed to outside forces, such as a fluctuation in humidity, it can absorb and lose moisture, which can cause the frame to warp. A sagging frame can make it difficult to operate the door, and eventually cause damage or failure. This is particularly relevant for doors that separate damp garages and basements from living spaces.

A few minor repairs are able to usually fix a sagging frame. Begin by looking at the frame to make sure that all bolts and screws are secure and tight. Replace any screws that are loose or missing. Then, replace the hinge screws with longer ones that are 2 or more inches long. This allows the screw to bite into the wall framing instead of the door jamb, which pulls the frame back into position.

You can also add shims. They are small pieces that can be placed on top of the hinges. This allows you to adjust how the frame is positioned. Shims can aid in supporting the frame and distribute the weight evenly across more of a larger area and prevent the frame from becoming damaged over time.

You might consider hiring an expert to repair more severe frame warps. A professional can perform an exhaustive examination to determine the severity of the issue and offer a complete repair solution. They can also install bracing to strengthen the frame in order to prevent it from sagging. This is typically an easier and more durable solution than buying new patio door components. If the frame is severely damaged, it could be necessary to replace the entire door jamb instead of just the door.

5. Cosmetic Damage

Over time, your patio doors can experience the effects of wear and tear. Surface damage can make your doors look less appealing and affect the aesthetics of your home. The positive side is that the majority of cosmetic damage can be corrected by using bonding fillers and paint. If the door has large dents or cracks it is recommended to replace it instead of trying to repair it.

The weatherstripping on doors may decrease in effectiveness over time, similar to the seal around windows. This can create gaps that allow air from outside to get into your home, which can lead to higher energy bills. A professional door repair service can install new weatherstripping to decrease energy loss and improve insulation.

Moisture on the exterior of your door is not good news, but patio doors are particularly vulnerable to it. This moisture can cause wood rot that is difficult and expensive to fix. The best method to protect your home is to have any water leaks repaired immediately by a professional trained to do so.

Over time the patio door may be misaligned as a result of normal usage or foundation changes. This can cause the doors to jam or make it difficult to open or close. A technician for door repair can realign the hinges and tracks to ensure smooth operation. They can also replace worn out rollers and hinges in order to ensure proper functioning.