Sliding Patio Doors Repairs
Your sliding glass patio doors help to let in more light and increase your home's energy efficiency. As time passes, they could begin to show signs that suggest some attention.
Fortunately, the majority of issues with sliding patio doors are easy to fix. Learn more about how to keep your patio doors looking and operating like new:.
Dirty or damaged tracks
One of the main reasons for sliding patio doors that don't open is clogged or dirty tracks. Over time, dirt and grime from daily usage can accumulate on the track. This can cause the door jam or even break completely.
The buildup can be slowed by regular light cleaning of tracks and sliding doors in your daily household chores. Begin by sweeping or vacuuming large debris off the tracks. Then make use of warm water and non-abrasive cleansing products such as dish soap to wipe them down. Vinegar can be added to your cleaning solution to remove stubborn dirt and grease staining.
If you find that your sliding door doesn't move smoothly after following these steps, it may be a sign of more serious damage that requires professional repair or replacement. But, there are simple fixes you can try before calling in experts to prevent costly repairs or replacements.
It is essential to put a doormat near the bottom of your sliding doors to help trap dirt before it has a chance to reach the tracks. Regularly trim any plants or bushes that are in close proximity to your sliding door to limit the amount of debris tracked into the tracks. Also, make sure you close the door correctly so that it doesn't slam into the tracks and damage the wheels and rollers. By keeping your doors clean and lubricated, you will extend their life significantly.
Rollers that are misaligned
Sometimes, a sliding patio may become out of alignment. This usually happens due to dirt or other obstructions which can be easily removed. However, it can also be due to a bent track or roller. In the latter case you might be able to realign the roller by taking them out by using their adjustment screws and cleaning them using ruby alcohol. Be careful, as these parts can be delicate.
If patio door repairs near me stick and stick, you can try using lubricants on the rollers to reduce friction and make it easier for them to slide. Use a silicone-based product, since petroleum-based lubricants tend to draw dirt more quickly. It is important to clean the tracks and rollers before applying lubricant.
After you've cleaned your rollers, you can put them back in place them using the screws for adjustment. It's recommended to apply the same lubricant that you used to clean them. Make sure you push the rollers fully into their channels when you reinstall them. You can then test your door to see whether it slides more smoothly.
If the issue persists, it may be necessary to take the door off and check the rollers and tracks. If the tracks or rollers are bent in a way they might need to be replaced. It is recommended to hire an expert to install the tracks or rollers in this case.
Warped Glass
Sliding glass doors are great to bring in natural light and the outdoors into a room, but they can also be susceptible to damage that requires repair or replacement. The most frequent problems that arise are cracking, warping, and fading. Warping occurs when the materials which make up your sliding glass patio door start to degrade due to exposure to sun, heat and other environmental factors. Cracking often results from impact damage, such as from a ball or lawn mower run-in, and fading generally occurs due to repeated contact with sunlight or other elements found in nature.
If you have sliding glass patio doors that aren't easy to open and close, this could be an indication that the rollers and tracks do not work correctly. This problem may be caused by the accumulation of dirt, rust, or debris in the wheels or track, or by a lack or lubrication. This issue can be solved by cleaning the tracks and rollers and clearing obstructions.
The locking mechanism might also be defective and make it difficult to open and close your sliding patio doors. It could be due to misalignment or wear and tear, or an amalgamation of both. To fix this, simply adjust the locking mechanism by turning the hidden adjustment screws located at the bottom.
Drafts or air leaks around your sliding patio doors are a frequent problem that can drastically reduce their energy efficiency. They typically originate from damaged weather stripping or poor alignment of the doors, which can be easily fixed by replacing the old weather stripping and aligning the doors.
Loose Handle
If the handle of a sliding door becomes loose, it could be quite frustrating and cause it difficult for people to open the door. The reason for this is an improperly aligned lock mechanism. It can be fixed by loosening and tightening the screws holding it in the correct position.
Another common reason for a handle to become loose is that it has separated from the spindle that connects it with the interior and exterior handles. This is usually the result of a combination of factors, including over use or wear and tear or simply aging. If the issue isn't dealt with quickly, the handle can be loosened and fall off.
The best method to solve this issue is by first finding the screws that connect the interior and exterior handles. These screws are usually hidden behind tabs of plastic which can be removed using a flathead (or a Phillips head screwdriver, in some cases) screwdriver. It's a good idea to keep these screws safe so that you don't loose them.
After removing the handles then the next step would be to take off the spindle. This can be done by tapping on the end with a mallet or hammer until it comes loose from its place within the door. The new handle can be put in place by simply putting the spindle into the hole on the interior handle and then inserting the other end of the spindle into the hole in the exterior 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 correctly.
Unusual Weatherstripping
A damaged or cracked weatherstripping can allow air and water to seep through your patio doors, which can compromise the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. In addition to letting in moisture, it can create drafts and also increase your cooling or heating costs. Fortunately, replacing faulty weatherstripping is an easy fix that doesn't require professional help. You can take off the old weatherstripping by either loosing the staples using an screwdriver, or gently prying it with a putty knife and pulling it from the door. Then, you can clean the area, and then apply a layer of weatherstripping which is secured with foam seal. This will prevent leaks and improve the comfort.
If your sliding patio doors aren't operating as they should, it's crucial to take action immediately to prevent further damage and keep them in good condition for the long term. Depending on the nature of the problem, DIY or professional repair/replacement may be the best solution.
Most sliding patio door problems are caused by dirty rollers, faulty tracks, or a loose handle. These issues can be resolved by regular cleaning and maintenance like applying lubrication and adjusting the track and tightening the hardware. However, if these measures don't work, it's best to seek professional advice to ensure that your patio door is functioning exactly as it should. Make sure to check the warranty information prior to you decide to replace or repair your patio door. This can save you money on repairs or replacements in the future.