Sliding Patio Doors Repairs
Your sliding patio doors can bring in natural light to your home, and will increase the efficiency of your home's energy usage. As time passes, they could begin to show signs that suggest some maintenance.
The majority of problems with sliding patio doors are fairly simple to repair. Find out how you can keep your sliding patio doors looking and working like new.
Tracks that are damaged or dirty
The tracks of your sliding patio door could be filthy or blocked. Over time, the dust and grime of everyday use accumulates on the track and can cause the door to become jammed or even break down completely.
This buildup can be reduced by incorporating regular light cleaning of sliding doors and tracks during your regular chores. Begin by sweeping or vacuuming large debris off the tracks. Then, use warm water and non-abrasive cleaning products, such as dish soap, to wipe them down. A little vinegar added to your cleaning solution can also aid in the removal of stubborn grease and dirt stains.
If you find that your sliding door isn't able to move smoothly after following these steps, it may be an indication of more serious damage that requires a professional repair or replacement. There are a few simple fixes you can do before calling a professional to avoid expensive repairs or replacements.
Place a mat under your sliding doors. This will help to trap dirt before it reaches the tracks. Also, you should trim any plants or bushes near your sliding doors to minimize the amount of debris trapped in the tracks. Make sure to close the door properly so it doesn't crash into the tracks and cause damage to the wheels and rollers. By keeping your doors clean and lubricated, you can extend their lifespan substantially.
Rollers that are not aligned
Occasionally, a sliding patio door may become out of alignment or becomes stuck. This is usually due to dirt or other obstructions which can be easily removed. However, it can be due to a bent track or roller. In this situation you can straighten the rollers by removing them by using the adjustment screws, and then cleaning with rubbing alcohol. Be careful, as these parts are fragile.
If your doors are stuck, you can grease the rollers. This will decrease friction and allow them to slide more easily. Use a silicone-based product, because petroleum-based lubricants may draw dirt more quickly. It is essential to clean the rollers and tracks before lubricating.
After cleaning the rollers you can put them back in place using their adjustment screws. Use the same lubricant that you used to clean them. When you are reinstalling the rollers ensure that you push them completely into their channels. You can then test your door to see if it now slides effortlessly.
If the problem persists it may be necessary to remove the door and check the rollers and tracks. If the tracks or wheels are bent in a way they may require you to replace them. It is recommended to hire an expert to install the rollers or tracks in this case.
Warped Glass
Sliding glass doors are ideal for bringing in the outdoors and natural sunlight into a space, but they can also be susceptible to damages that require repair or replacement. The most frequent problems that occur include warping, cracking and fading. The materials used to make the sliding glass patio doors start to deteriorate when exposed to heat, sunlight and other environmental factors. Cracks are often caused by impact damage, such as from a lawn mower or ball run-in, and fading generally is caused by repeated contact with sunlight and other natural elements.
If your sliding glass patio doors are difficult to open or close, it could indicate that the tracks and rollers aren't working properly. This issue could be caused by the accumulation of dirt, rust, or debris on the track or wheels or a lack or lubrication. This issue can be fixed by cleaning the tracks, rollers and removing obstructions.
The locking mechanism could also be defective, making it difficult to open or shut your sliding patio doors. It could be due to misalignment or wear and tear or the combination of both. To fix this issue, simply adjust the locking mechanism by turning the adjustment screws located at the bottom.
Drafts or air leaks around your sliding patio doors are a frequent issue that can significantly decrease their energy efficiency. These problems are usually caused by weather stripping that has worn out or poor door alignment. This can be fixed easily by replacing the weather stripping, and realigning your doors.
Loose Handle
If the handle of a sliding door is loose, it can be quite frustrating and cause it difficult for people to open the door. The reason for this is an incorrectly aligned lock mechanism. It can be fixed by loosing and tightening the screws holding it in the correct position.
A loose handle can also result from the handle breaking off from the spindle connecting it to the inside or handles on the outside. This can be the result of a number of reasons, including excessive use, wear-and-tear or just general aging. If the issue isn't resolved promptly, it may eventually lead to the entire handle becoming loose and potentially falling off entirely.
To resolve this issue it is necessary to find the screws that connect the interior and exterior handles. The screws are typically hidden behind tabs made of plastic which can be removed using a flathead (or a Phillips head screwdriver, in some cases) screwdriver. It's a good idea store these screws somewhere safe so that you don't loose them.
After patio door repairs near me have been removed and the old handles are gone, the next step is to remove the spindle that has become loose. You can do this by pounding the end of the spindle with the hammer until it's freed from its position within the door. The new handle is fitted by putting the spindle inside the handle hole inside and the other end into the exterior handle hole. Once the handle is installed and tightened, screw back the screws and then test to make sure the lock and unlock mechanism is working properly.
Weatherstripping that isn't working properly
A worn or cracked weatherstripping may allow air and water to get through your patio doors, compromising the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. It can allow moisture in and create drafts that will increase your cooling and heating costs. It is easy to replace damaged weatherstripping without professional assistance. You can take off the old weatherstripping by loosing the staples with a screwdriver, or gently squeezing it with a putty blade and then pulling it from the door. Then, you can clean the area, and then apply a layer of weatherstripping which is secured by an adhesive. This will stop leaks and enhance the comfort.
If your sliding patio door is not working as it should, you must to fix the issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that they are functional for years to come. Depending on how severe the issue is, a DIY solution or a professional repair/replacement could be the best option.
The most frequent issues with sliding patio doors are filthy rollers caused by debris on the tracks, wheels that are not aligned and a loose handle. In the majority of cases these issues can be fixed through regular maintenance and cleaning, including fluidizing the track, adjusting the rollers and tightening the hardware. If these methods do not work it is recommended that you seek professional advice in order to ensure that your patio is operating just as it should. Check the warranty information before you decide to replace or repair your patio door. This can save you money on repairs or replacements in the future.