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Patio Doors Repairs

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

Understanding how patio doors function can help homeowners communicate with contractors about the issues they face. Here are some of the most frequent problems with patio doors:

Misaligned rollers

It's sometimes difficult to open a patio sliding door. But, unless there's an underlying structural issue, most uncooperative doors can be easily fixed by a bit of cleaning and lubrication. The most frequent cause is dirt in the lower track, which could cause the rollers to be pushed against the track below and cause them to become misaligned. In this situation, clean the track thoroughly and apply a thin layer of lubricant to allow the rollers to glide easily.

The misalignment could also be because of wear or damage in the hinges that connect the door panels, which house some of the rollers, springs, whether torsion or extension; and cables, which lift the door. When damaged or worn these components could affect roller alignment, causing resistance and other problems such as the door being heavier or having higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and professional inspections can help ensure that all the components are in sync to keep your patio door functioning smoothly.

Create a crow's foot at one end, and use the tramming stick to sweep across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process on the opposite side of the track, and divide by 2 to get a reading of the rollers' parallelism (Photo 1). This method isn't as precise as using a pi tape to measure the diameter directly. However, it's faster and less cumbersome than using a carpenter's or level to measure the length of 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 the door jamb. It stops the rollers. If the door is very heavy, you may require assistance in removal of the removable grilles and shades. After the head stop is removed, remove the screws that adjust the head track by pushing them out using the help of a screwdriver. Then, reinstall the assembly by aligning each adjustment screw with the access hole for it and tapping it in using the hammer.

Tracks that are damaged or dirty

Patio doors that slide open can act as magnets for debris, dirt and other elements from outside. They can also be prone to misalignment and other issues that require professional repair services. To extend the lifespan of your patio door, identifying and addressing these problems in the early stages is crucial.

Dirty tracks are among the most common causes of sliding patio door malfunctions. Over time dirt and other debris like pet hair, food crumbs and yard debris, can get caught in the tiny spaces between the tracks of your sliding doors, causing it to become stuck or difficult to open. To avoid these issues it is recommended to vacuum and clean your patio door tracks at least once every month. You can clean your patio door tracks with an anti-abrasive cleaning solution or with warm soapy tap water after you've removed any loose debris. If you notice that certain areas of the track are harder to clean, try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean out these tiny spaces.

It is also important to grease the tracks frequently to prevent your sliding door from becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, we recommend adding silicone spray to the bottom track on a regular basis. You can also use paraffin wax to enhance the glide.





Another issue that could impact your sliding patio door is a air leak or draft. This could occur when the weather stripping of your sliding patio door has worn out or is damaged. This can lead to a gap between your sliding patio door and the frame. This allows air in and decreases the efficiency of energy. Ensure that your weather stripping is in good condition and replace it if necessary.

Over time, your patio door may be subject to normal wear and tear. These problems are usually not an indication of a serious problem. In most cases, minor repairs can prolong the life of your patio door and keep it running smoothly. Get a professional in touch to fix any problems as soon as they occur to avoid costly repairs in the future.

Glass that is cracked or warped

A warped or cracked patio door can be a major eyesore and a potential security risk. This could also allow unwanted animals to get into your home and cause the temperature to fluctuate. Thankfully, these problems are usually fixable in the event that you spot them early.

First, a quick glance at the glass will help determine what type of repair is required. Glass cracks are typically caused by impact or stress. These are more difficult to repair than chips on the surface. A professional will likely require re-leading the panel. This will mean removal of the glass, cleaning and replacing any broken pieces. To help match the new glass with the old, a professional needs exact documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.

Sometimes cracks in the glass can be filled with epoxy plastic. This can be purchased from a hardware store or the home improvement section in many stores. A professional will usually use the soldering iron to melt the plastic, then apply it to the crack in the glass. After it has been cooled, the professional will remove any excess.

If the glass crack is small, there may be a possibility of repairing it with clear sealant. This kind of product can be purchased at any hardware store. It is crucial to dry the crack thoroughly before applying sealant. This will stop the repair from failing. A hair dryer or any other fan can be used to expedite this process.

Damaged weatherstripping

A worn out weather stripping is not just ugly and a security risk, but it also allows outside air to get in and heat or cold to escape. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping in your home.

First, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. This includes a new weather stripping kit or caulk sealant adhesive (depending on the repair method) and scissors, pliers, utility knife, and some gloves or protective goggles. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting through the end piece, and then pulling it back up using any screws that are attached, if appropriate. Remove any remaining pieces with pliers and a plier.

If you decide to replace the weather stripping, begin by measuring the gap around the door frame. The measurements can be used to determine the amount of weather stripping that you will require. Make sure you leave extra length for later fine-tuning. Once you've found the ideal size, place the backing and press the material against the frame. If patio door repair want, secure it to the frame using a small nail or hammer.

Apply wood filler onto the frame to cover any holes or divots. Let the filler completely dry before painting. In general, it is best to apply oil-based paint over the filler, but latex paint is also a good choice.

The last thing to do is take care to clean your sliding door tracks and doors frequently. This will avoid future issues such as sticking. Making sure you are keeping up with maintenance and repairs to your patio doors ensures they are functional, attractive, and energy-efficient. By doing so patio door repairs will be able to enjoy the outdoors with confidence and save money at the same time! Enjoy your home improvement projects!