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How to Repair a Sliding Patio Door

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

Cleaning your patio door sliding is the simplest way to fix it. You'll need the brush and soapy water to thoroughly clean the tracks. Then, you can apply lubrication to the tracks to enhance their performance.

1. Dirty or Damaged Tracks

One of the main causes of a squeaky or sticky patio door is dirt and debris that has accumulated in the track. Pine straw, bird droppings, sand and salt from winter roads, and other nasties things can cause a blockage in the track. It is essential to regularly clean and lubricate your sliding doors.

Put on a pair of rubber gloves and goggles to protect your eyes. Utilize a shop vacuum cleaner or a brush to clean any gunk that has escaped. Mix equal parts of white vinegar into spray bottles. Spray a small amount of the solution onto your cleaning brushes, and scrub the track. Rinse and dry the area using paper towels. This will prevent scratching and further damage to the sill and track.

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

Another reason for a squeaky door is the misalignment of the rollers that can be remedied by adjusting the height and positioning of the rollers. It's a good idea replace the weather stripping that surrounds the door whenever you do this to ensure a secure fit and increase energy efficiency.

Leaking tracks can be an issue that could lead mold growth and structural damage within your home. If the leak is limited to one section of the track, you might be able to fix it yourself by re-sealing the joint. However, if the problem is widespread, it's best to seek out a professional to repair the patio door.

2. Broken or damaged screen

If your patio door does not allow for airflow, it could make your home feel stale and uncomfortable. It could also create a cozy entryway for pests like mosquitoes and flies. If you've damaged a screen or notice that fog is building up between the panes glass it's recommended to call in professional help as soon as possible.





If you have an old screen on your sliding patio door, it is simple to replace it with a brand new screen. You can purchase screen material in rolls that have been already measured to fit the majority of doors of standard sizes. You can also purchase full screen repair kit that includes the screen, spline and roller in one box.

The process of installing a new screen starts by laying the replacement material on a flat surface. Then use your scissors to cut the screen to length to the point that about an inch or two of the screen covers on both sides of the frame. Then, you can remove the old spline as well as any screen that is left over from the window frame using your utility knife.

It is now possible to lay the new screen spline starting at the lower left corner of the frame. Work your way around to the perimeter. Once the spline has been placed, use your screen rolling tool to push it into the groove. Remove any excess spline and screen using your utility knife Be careful not to cut the inside frame of the window. Check the spline and see if there are any distortions or ripples. Adjust the screen if necessary.

3. Leaking Seals

If you notice water getting a foothold around the patio door or getting stuck between the glass panes, it's an obvious indication that your seals and frames are losing their integrity. This can lead to rot and mold and even higher costs for energy due to air leakage and drafts.

Caulking and flashing that is not properly installed can lead to leaky seals. It is crucial to employ an experienced professional who is able to install patio doors and make sure that the frame is caulked and flashed.

In addition to properly installing the flashing, you'll want to make sure that any cracks or gaps are closed with caulking approved for use in the specific weather conditions. If you live in an area that has humid climates, such as Ontario and the like, then you'll be looking for a caulking product that can stand up to humidity.

Another common cause of leaking seals is when the shims underneath the door frame are not properly installed. They are usually made of wood and help keep the sheathing in line with the framing, but when they're not installed properly, they could create gaps that allow moisture into your home.

Spraying the frame with a garden nozzle or hose is a good way to test the seals. If you see an airborne mist escaping these areas, contact an expert who will come in and conduct a thorough inspection of the installation. It's possible that a little additional caulking is all that's required, or the shims have to be replaced. Whatever the case solving these issues as quickly as possible will avoid costly repairs and further damage later on. It is always better to take the initiative in fixing your frame and patio door rather than wait until it's too late!

4. Warped Frame

When wood is exposed to external factors, like a change in humidity, it will absorb and lose moisture, which could 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 basements and garages from living spaces.

A sagging frame can be corrected with a few minor repairs. Start by examining the frame to ensure that all screws and bolts are secure and tight. Replace any screws that are loose or missing. Replace the hinge screws with longer ones, usually 2 inches or more. This allows the screw bite into the wall framing rather than the door jamb, which pulls the frame back in place.

You can also add shims, which are small pieces of wood that can be put behind the hinges to adjust the position of the frame. Shims can help support the frame and spread the weight evenly over more of the area. This will stop the frame becoming more distorted over time.

For more severe frame warps, you may want to consider hiring a professional to fix the issue. A professional will examine the frame thoroughly to determine the severity and provide a complete solution. They can also install bracing in order to strengthen the frame to prevent it from sagging. In most cases this is a more cost-effective and durable solution than simply buying new patio door components. If the frame has significantly warped, you may need to replace the entire jamb of the door, not just the actual door.

5. Cosmetic Damage

Over time, the patio doors can show many wear and tear. Surface damage can leave your doors looking less than appealing and can affect the look of your home. The good news is that the majority of cosmetic damage can be repaired using bonding fillers and paint. If the door has large cracks or dents it is best to replace it rather than trying to repair it.

Like the seals around windows, a door's weatherstripping could become less effective over time. This can result in gaps that let air from outside infiltrate your home and increase the cost of energy. patio door repairs can install new weatherstripping in order to reduce energy loss and improve insulation.

Moisture on the exterior of doors is always bad news, but it's especially dangerous for your patio doors. The moisture could cause wood rot that is costly and difficult to fix. Water leaks should be addressed immediately by an expert.

Over time, a patio door can become misaligned due to normal usage or foundation changes. This could cause the doors to become jammed or difficult to open and close. A technician can realign hinges and tracks for smooth operation. They can also replace worn-out rollers and hinges to ensure proper functioning.