Sliding Patio Door Repairs
A sliding patio door is an ideal option to let more natural light in and take advantage of your outdoor space. However, if the door isn't moving smoothly or looks dirty, it can be a real hassle.
Many of these issues can be easily fixed with a few DIY skills. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
Tracks that are damaged or dirty Tracks
Over time the sliding patio door's tracks may get clogged by dust, dirt and other debris. By implementing a regular cleaning schedule and lubrication can ensure that your door is able to move smoothly.
Cleaning the track is the first step. A dirty track can cause the door to become stuck or even make it impossible for it to open or shut. Begin by sweeping away any particles that are floating around. Then, use the brush and cleaning solution to clean away any visible grime. Be sure to clean every corner and nook, as well as the areas where the door meets its frame.
After you've scrubbed the track, rinse the track using a hose or bucket of clean water. Finally, apply a lubricant from a shop that can displace moisture and prevent future corrosion. Try sliding it backwards and forwards to see if you can move it with ease.
If your door is still stuck, it's possible the rollers are damaged or misaligned. This can also impede movement. In most cases, you can resolve this by readjusting the wheels and then lubricating them. It could be time to replace them if your door is old. Before reassembling the track, lay a piece of cloth on the floor. Then remove the two plugs covering the screws that adjust the rollers at the bottom of the frame. Install a screwdriver in each hole and turn them counterclockwise to retract the rollers. This will give you the space you need to remove the door and set it on sawhorses.
Faulty Handle
In time, the handle on your sliding door may become loose from the strike plate it is mounted on. The good news is that the issue of a loose handle is usually quite simple to solve. Utilize Repair My Windows And Doors and tighten the screws that connect the door handle to strike plate. Be cautious not to tighten too much, as this can cause damage to the inner mechanism, and cause the handle to cease working correctly.
When a sliding patio door becomes difficult to slide, the problem is usually caused by debris clogging the rollers. Dirt, hair and other messes frequently get stuck in the tracks, which makes the door stop smoothly sliding. To ensure smooth operation, start by cleaning the rollers.
A typical issue is when the sliding patio door lock no more works. It could be because of a misaligned lock or damaged handle. The easiest solution is to replace the lock mechanism or adjust the handle of the door.
A screen door that won't close or unlock isn't a pleasant experience. A defective screen could be dangerous. If the screen isn't aligned properly with the door frame it could rub against frames and cause wear and tear to both the screen and the door. If your screen doesn't work properly, the solution is quite easy. Check whether the latching bar still in place. If it's not in place, remove it and replace with a replacement. Once you've replaced the latching rod, reinstall the screen and ensure that the hinges are set properly. Install screws into the holes in the frame for a finished appearance.
Unusual Weatherstripping
The weather stripping between your door and frame helps close the gap, preventing cold air, drafts and insects. It's time to replace it if it's cracked, discoloured, or hardened. It's generally fairly simple to do. Some people simply cut out the worn section and replace it, but it's much easier to replace the whole piece.
First, make sure the gap isn't close to the seating point where the weather strip is bonded to the frame. If so, you will have to reseal the weather strip to the frame using weather strip adhesive.
Then, look around the periphery of your weather strip. Utilize a dollar bill to verify if the weather strip is sealed. Just place the bill part towards the seal and close the door to see whether it is able to pull away from the flange made of metal of the weather strip. If it's not difficult to do then it's time to replace it.
It is possible to lubricate your run channel (the groove composed of rubber and felt on both sides of the door) to avoid ice buildup during winter. You can buy a spray lubricant at your local hardware store that works, but be careful not to spill any on your glass.
Another option is to spread a thin layer of sand under your door prior to the snow starts falling to prevent it from sticking as salt would. Don't leave sand at the bottom of your door as it can harm the concrete and rubber of the weather strip.
Damaged Glass
There are many situations that could result in the glass of a sliding patio door breaking or cracking. If your glass for your patio door is damaged by a knock or bump, or some other occurrence, it is vital to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your home is adequately insulated and sealed.
Doors that slide can become damaged over time as a result of their constant use and exposure. Rusty rollers, damaged handles, and bent tracks are just some of the problems that can result in the patio door not working correctly. Sliding patio door repair specialists are able to pinpoint the root of the issue and perform any necessary repairs or replacements.
Apart from obvious damage, a damaged patio door could also impact your energy costs. Temperature fluctuations and drafts around the patio door are often indications that there is a gap there between the frame and glass pane. This can be costly both in the winter and summer months when you're spending money to cool or heat your home.
You can replace a broken panel on your patio without having to remove the whole door. In certain instances this is the best option for you if you are looking to get your door functioning as quickly as you can. Whatever the case, whether you're replacing the glass or just the frame, it is crucial to have all of the required tools in your arsenal to ensure the task can be done quickly and safely. This includes gloves, a small hammer or pry bar as well as a putty knife, a measuring tool, and a replacement glass. DIY Door Store offers all these items to help you fix your broken sliding patio doors easily and affordably.
Frames that aren't in good shape or damaged
Sliding patio doors are designed to simplify access to the outdoors and indoors, and also allow for a natural flow of traffic. As with all home appliances, sliding patio doors are susceptible to wear and tear that can affect their functionality. While some damages may be simple to repair yourself, others require professional assistance to ensure that your door remains in top condition.
If you can see signs of damage, like dents and scratches It's time to replace your sliding door. These damages affect the security and energy efficiency of your patio door, as in addition to its appearance.
Misaligned track or rollers are common issues that cause your sliding door to stop functioning correctly. This can be caused by dirt or debris accumulation on the track and can usually be resolved by using a pair of pliers to straighten out the rails.
Cleaning regularly the tracks and rollers on your sliding patio doors is essential. Dirt can cause them to become stiff or stuck, preventing them from moving freely. Utilizing a hand-brush, vacuum, or even a spray-down with a jet wash can aid in removing any obstructive build-up. Applying a silicone-based lubricant on your tracks can also aid in smooth operation and help prevent premature wear.
In time, slamming your patio door could cause severe damage to both the frame and the glass panel. This can lead to damaged or loose frames, bent tracks and a handle that is difficult to open and close. Sliding screen doors are generally more prone to this type of damage because frames are usually less sturdy than those on glass sliding doors. However, if you've got a broken screen door frame, this can often be repaired by resealing the gap using silicone lubricant and applying new sealant around the edges of the glass.