Sliding Patio Door Repairs
A sliding patio door is a great way to let in more light and take advantage of your outdoor space. If the door isn't moving smoothly or looks dirty, it can be a pain.
Many of these issues are easily fixable with some DIY skills. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
Tracks that are dirty or damaged Tracks
Over time the tracks of a sliding patio could be clogged by dust, dirt and other debris. Regular cleaning and lubrication could assist your sliding patio door move smoothly.
Cleaning the track is the first step. A dirty track may cause the door to become stuck, or even cause it to be impossible to shut or open. Begin by sweeping away any loose debris. Use a brush that contains the cleaning solution to eliminate any visible dirt. Be sure to clean all corners and nooks, as well as the areas where the door joins its frame.
After you've scrubbed the track, rinse the track using a hose or bucket of clean water. Apply an oil that you can buy from the store to eliminate moisture and prevent further rusting. Test the door by sliding it forwards and backwards to see if you can move it freely.
If your door is still stuck, it could be that the rollers have been damaged or misaligned. This can also cause the door to move slower. In most instances, you can correct this by readjusting the wheels and lubricating them. It could be time for a replacement if your door is old. Before reassembling the track lay a drop cloth on the floor. Then remove the two plugs that cover the screws for adjustment of the rollers at the bottom of the frame. To retract the rollers, insert an screwdriver into each hole and turn it counterclockwise. This will allow you the space to take off the door and set it on sawhorses.
Faulty Handle
In time, your sliding door handle can become loose from the strike plate that it is attached to. The good thing is that a loose handle can be fixed easily. Simply use a screwdriver to tighten the screws holding the door handle to the strike plate. Be careful not to over tighten as this could cause damage to the mechanism inside, and cause the handle to not function correctly.
The issue with a sliding patio door that isn't easy to slide is usually caused by debris that blocks the rollers. Dust, dirt, hair and fur are often pushed into the tracks, which causes the door to stop moving smoothly. To promote smooth operation, start by cleaning the rollers.
Another common issue is that the lock on your patio door no longer works correctly. This could be due to a misaligned or broken handle. The lock mechanism can be replaced or the handle realigned.
A screen door that won't close or unlock isn't a pleasant experience. A broken screen door can also be dangerous. If the screen isn't aligned properly with the door frame, it will rub on the frames and cause wear to the screen as well as the door. The solution to screen that isn't functioning properly is pretty simple. Verify whether the latching bar is still in place. If not, take it off and replace it with a brand new one. Reinstall the screen after replacing the rod that latches it. Make sure that the hinges are correctly set. Add screw covers to the holes of the frame for a finished appearance.
Poor weatherstripping
The weather stripping on your door and frame will help close the gap, preventing cold air, drafts and insects. If yours is cracked or discoloured It's time to replace it. It's generally not difficult to do. Some people only replace the worn part, but it's much simpler to replace the entire item.
First, make sure the gap isn't near the point of seating where the weather strip is bonded to the frame. If it is, you'll need to reattach it to the frame with weather strip adhesive.
Next, examine the entire area around your weather strip. Use your dollar bill to verify if the weather strip is sealed. Place the bill halfway across the seal, then close the door. If it is easy to pull it away from the flange made of metal on the weather strip, you should replace it. If it's simple to do, it's time to replace it.
You may also need to lubricate your run channel (the groove of felt and rubber that runs vertically on both sides of your door) to stop ice from building up during winter. You can purchase a spray lubricant from your local hardware store. Be careful not to get it on your glass.
Another option is to apply a thin layer of sand under your door before the snow begins to fall to prevent it from sticking as salt does. Be sure to not leave any sand on the bottom of the door, however it may damage the concrete and rubber of the weather strip in time.
Glass that is damaged
Many situations can lead to sliding glass patio doors becoming damaged or broken. If your glass for your patio door is damaged due to a knock, bump or other incident it is essential to replace it right away to ensure your home is well-insulated and sealed.
Over time, sliding doors are prone to damage due to frequent use and exposure to elements. Rusting rollers, faulty handles, and bent tracks are just some of the issues that can lead to an outdoor door that isn't functioning properly. Specialists in sliding patio repair can quickly identify the problem and make the necessary repairs or replace the components.
In addition to obvious damage, a damaged patio door can also affect your energy costs. patio door lock repair between the frame of the patio door and the glass can result in drafts and temperature differences. This can be costly both in the winter and summer seasons when you have to pay to cool or heat your home.
You can repair a damaged panel on your patio without removing the entire door. This is the most effective option in certain circumstances when you want to get your sliding patio door back up and running quickly. Whatever the case, whether you're replacing the glass or just the frame, it is essential to have all of the necessary tools available to ensure the task can be completed quickly and safely. This includes gloves, a small hammer or pry bar and a putty blade, a measuring tool, and a replacement glass. DIY Door Store has all of these materials available to easily and inexpensively repair your own broken sliding patio door.
Frames that are loose or damaged
Sliding patio doors are designed to permit easy outdoor-indoor movement and offer a natural flow. As with all home appliances, sliding patio doors are subject to wear and tear that may hinder their function. While some issues are simple to repair yourself, others require professional assistance to ensure your door stays in top condition.
Visible signs of damage such as dents and scratches indicate it's time for sliding door replacement. These damages don't just affect the aesthetics of your patio doors but they also impact security and energy efficiency.
A improperly aligned track, or even rollers, could cause your sliding door not to function properly. This is usually due to debris or dirt accumulation on the track and is typically fixed by using a pair of pliers to straighten the rails.
Cleaning regularly the tracks and rollers on your sliding patio doors is crucial. Dirt can cause them to become stiff or stymied, which can stop them from moving freely. Using a hand brush or vacuum, or a spray-down that includes a jet wash can aid in removing any obstructive build-up. Add a silicone-based grease to your tracks to ensure smooth operation and prevent premature wear.
In time, slamming your patio door may cause serious damage to both the frame and the glass panel. This can result in a frayed or broken frame or tracks, as well as a bent handle that is difficult to shut and open. Sliding screen doors are generally more prone to this kind of damage, as the frames are generally less durable than those of glass sliding doors. However, if you've got a broken screen door frame, this can often be repaired by resealing the gap with silicone lubricant and then applying a new sealant around the edges of the glass.