Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors offer homeowners natural light and fresh clean air. They also enhance the value of a home. However, over time they could develop issues that require immediate attention.
Understanding the way patio doors operate will help homeowners communicate with a contractor regarding the problems they encounter. Here are some common patio door repairs:.
Rollers that are not aligned
Sometimes the sliding patio door will get stuck and it's not easy to get the thing to open again. But it's not a sign of a structural issue, most uncooperative doors can be easily fixed by a bit of cleaning and lubrication. Most often dirt on the lower track can cause the bottom track and rollers to become misaligned. In this situation it is necessary to clean the track and apply a thin coat of lubricant so that the rollers glide easily.
It can be caused by wear or damage to the hinges that connect the doors that house a portion of these rollers, springs (whether torsion or extensions) as well as cables that lift the door. When they are damaged or worn, can alter the alignment of rollers and lead to resistance and other issues, such as a heavier feeling door or higher energy consumption. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these elements are in good working order to keep your patio doors functioning smoothly.
Install a crow's feet at one end. Use the tramming stick to sweep across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process at the opposite end of the track, and then divide by 2 to get a reading of the rollers' parallelism (Photo 1). This method is not as accurate as using pi tapes to measure the diameter directly, but it's much faster and easier than measuring each individual rail with a level or carpenter's level.
You can also test the alignment of the rollers by removing the head stop. It is an elongated plate that is located at the bottom of your door jamb. It stops the rollers. This requires the removal of any removable grilles or shades, and in the event that the door is heavy, you should seek help with this step. After removing the head stop, take out the head track adjustment screws by securing them with a screwdriver. Then, reinstalling the assembly, align each adjustment screw with the hole that it is accessible through, and tapping it with a Hammer.
Dirty or damaged tracks
Sliding patio doors can serve as magnets for dirt, debris and other elements outside. They are also susceptible to misalignment, and other issues that require professional assistance to fix. To extend the life of your patio door the identification and resolution of these issues early on is essential.
One of the main reasons for sliding patio doors to fail is dirty tracks. Over time, dirt and other debris such as food crumbs, pet hair and yard debris can get caught in the tiny spaces between your sliding door tracks which can cause it to become stuck or difficult to open. It is recommended to clean and vacuum the patio door tracks every month at a minimum to avoid these problems. You can clean your patio door tracks with a non-abrasive cleaning solution, or warm soapy tap water after having removed any debris that is floating around. If you notice that certain areas of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or toothbrush to clean these tiny spaces.
You should also lubricate the tracks regularly to avoid your sliding door becoming stuck or difficult to open. If you own Panda patio doors it is recommended to add silicone spray to the bottom track on a frequent basis. You can also rub paraffin wax along the track to enhance glide.
Air leaks or drafts can also affect your sliding patio doors. This could happen if the weather stripping of your sliding patio door has worn out or has been damaged. This can result in an opening between the door and frame which allows air enter and reduce the efficiency of your energy. Make sure your weatherstripping is in good shape and replace it if needed.
Over time, your patio door may see normal wear and tear. However, these issues are typically not indicators of a significant issue. Minor repairs can extend the life of your patio door. Contact a professional as soon when you notice any issues to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Glass that is cracked or warped
A patio door that's cracked or warped can be a real eyesore, and it could pose security risks. It can also permit unwanted animals to enter your home, causing the temperature to fluctuate. These issues are easy to fix if detected early.
First, a quick glance at the glass will determine the type of repair is required. Cracks in glass are usually caused by impact or stress. They can be a bit more difficult to fix than simple chipping on the surface. A professional will probably require re-leading the panel. This will mean removing the glass and replacing any broken pieces. To make sure that the new glass with the original, a professional needs exact documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.
Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. You can buy this in a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will employ a soldering tool to melt the plastic and then apply it on the crack. Once the plastic has cooled and the professional has removed any excess.
If the glass crack is small, there may be a chance to repair it with clear sealant. You can buy this type of product from any hardware retailer. It is important to dry the crack thoroughly prior to applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. You can accelerate the process by using a hair dryer or a different fan.
Weatherstripping damaged
A weather stripping that is worn out not only looks ugly and is a security risk, but also allows the outside air and heat out. A simple fix using a new piece of weather stripping will save you money and keep your home more comfortable.
First, make sure you have all the tools and supplies. You'll need a replacement weather-stripping kit or adhesive or caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you decide to use), pliers and scissors, a utility knife and gloves or goggles that are protective and a new weather-stripping kit. Remove the weather stripping that was used previously by cutting through the end piece and pulling it up using any screws that are attached, if applicable. Then, gently remove any pieces still left over using pliers or a pry bar.
Start by measuring the gap around the door frame. Utilize the measurements to determine what size weather stripping you will need. Make sure you leave a bit of extra length so that you can refine the fit later. Once you have the right size, apply the backing of the adhesive and press it against the frame. If you wish you want to, use a nail to tack the frame in place.
Finally, apply wood filler to any divots or holes in the frame. Allow the filler to dry completely prior to applying any paint. It is best to use oil-based paints but latex will also work.
The last thing to do is make sure you clean your sliding tracks and doors regularly. Taking the time to do this can prevent the doors from sticking and other issues later on. Maintaining simply click the up coming website page and repairs to your patio doors ensures they are practical, attractive and energy efficient. When you do this you will be able to enjoy the great outdoors with confidence and save some money at the same time! Happy home-fixing!