Sliding Patio Door Repairs
A sliding patio is a great opportunity to take advantage of your outdoor space and let in more light. However, when the door isn't moving smoothly or looks dingy it could be a real headache.
Luckily, the majority of these problems can be fixed with a little DIY know-how. Here are a few typical problems and solutions:
Dirty or Damaged Tracks
Over time the tracks of a sliding patio can be clogged by dirt, dust and other debris. Regular cleaning and lubrication could help your sliding patio door move smoothly.
Cleaning the track is the first step. A dirty track can cause the door to stick, or even make it impossible for it to open or shut. Begin by sweeping away any particles that are floating around. Use a brush that contains an appropriate cleaning solution to get rid of any visible dirt. Be sure to clean every corner and nook and also the areas where the door is joined to its frame.
After you've scrubbed it, rinse the track with a bucket or hose of clean water. repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk from the store to stop rusting and displace moisture. Before reinstalling the door check it by sliding it back and forth to see if it moves freely.
If your door is still stuck, it's possible the rollers are damaged or misaligned, which could also impede movement. In the majority of cases, you can fix this by readjusting the wheels and lubricating them. It might be time to replace them when your door is old. Before reassembling the track lay a drop cloth on the floor. Then take off the two plugs that cover the screws for adjustment of the rollers on the bottom of the frame. To retract the rollers, put the screwdriver in each hole and turn counterclockwise. This will give you enough room to remove the door from the sawhorses and place it on the sawhorses.
Faulty Handle
Over time the handle on your sliding door can become loose from the strike plate it rests on. The good news is, the issue with the handle being loose is typically simple to fix. Simply use a screwdriver to tighten the screws that hold the door handle to the strike plate. Be careful not to overtighten as this could cause damage to the inner mechanism, and cause the handle to not function properly.
The issue with sliding patio doors that isn't able to slide is typically caused by debris that blocks the rollers. Dirt, hair and other messes frequently get stuck in the tracks which makes the door stop sliding smoothly. Start by cleaning the rollers, and then using a sliding door lubricant that will ensure smooth operation.
The most frequent issue is when your sliding patio door lock no more is working. It could be because of a misaligned lock or the handle is damaged. The most straightforward solution is to replace the lock mechanism or to align the door handle.
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 as well as the door. The solution to screen that isn't working correctly is quite easy. First, make sure whether the rod for latching is still in the correct position. If it is not in place, remove it and replace it with a replacement. Install the screen again after replacing the rod for latching. Make sure that the hinges are correctly set. For a more polished appearance make sure you attach screw covers to the holes in the frame.
Weatherstripping that isn't working properly
The weather stripping between your door and frame will help seal the gap, keeping out cold air, drafts and pests. It's time to replace it if it's cracked, discoloured, or hardened. It's usually not difficult to do. Some people cut off the worn area and replace it, but it's easier to replace the whole part.
First, make sure there isn't a gap near the seat where the weather strip is bonded to the frame. If it is, you'll have to seal it back to the frame with weather strip adhesive.
Next, check the entire area of your weather strip. Utilize a dollar bill to check if the weather strip is sealed. Place the bill halfway across the seal, then close the door. If it is easy to pull away from the metal flange on the weather strip, it's time to replace it. If it is easy to remove, it's time to replace the weather strip.
You may also have to lubricate the run channel (the groove made of rubber and felt that runs vertically along both sides of your door) to help prevent ice from building up during winter. You can buy a spray lubricant at your local hardware store that works, but be careful not to spill any on the glass.
Another option is to apply a thin layer of sand under your door prior to the snow starts falling, which will keep it from sticking as salt would. Be sure to not leave any sand on the bottom of the door, however it could harm the rubber and concrete of the weather strip in the course of time.
Damaged Glass
There are a variety of situations that could result in a sliding patio door glass being damaged or cracked. If your glass for your patio door is damaged by a knock or bump, or any other cause it is crucial to replace it right away to ensure your home is well-insulated and sealed.
Over time, sliding doors become susceptible to damage because of frequent use and exposure the elements. Doors that aren't working properly can be caused by rusty rollers, damaged handles or bent tracks. Repair experts for sliding patio doors are able to quickly identify the cause of the problem and fix any issues or replacements.
A broken patio door can impact your energy costs in addition to the obvious damage. A gap between the frame of the patio door and the glass can cause drafts and temperature differences. This can be costly both in winter and summer, when you have to pay for heating or cool 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're looking to get your door back functioning as quickly as possible. It is important to have the right tools available regardless of whether you're replacing the glass or the frame. This will ensure that the work is done safely and efficiently. These include gloves and a small pry bar or hammer, putty knife, tape, measuring tape, and a replacement glass. DIY Door Store offers all the necessary tools to repair your damaged sliding patio doors easily and affordably.
Frames that are loose or damaged
Sliding patio doors are designed to facilitate access from indoors to outdoors and allow for natural flow of traffic. But, as with any other home appliance they're susceptible to wear and tear over time that impacts their functionality. While some damage can be simple to repair by yourself, others require professional assistance to ensure your door stays in optimal condition.
If you see visible signs of damage, such as scratches and dents, it's probably time to replace your sliding door. These damages don't just affect the aesthetics of your patio doors, but they also affect security and energy efficiency.
Misaligned track or rollers are common problems that cause your sliding door to stop functioning correctly. This can be caused by dirt or debris accumulation on the track and is usually fixed by using a pair of pliers to straighten the rails.
Cleaning the rollers and tracks on your sliding patio doors is vital. Dirt can cause them to become stiff or stymied, which can stop them from moving freely. Using a hand brush or vacuum, or spray-down using a jet wash can help to clear away any obstructions. Apply a silicone-based grease your tracks to ensure smooth operation and avoid premature wear.
When repeated, slamming on the door of the patio can cause serious damages to the frame as well as the glass panel. This could result in a broken or loose frame or tracks, as well as a bent handle that is difficult to shut and open. Sliding screen door frames tend to be less durable than those of glass sliding doors, which makes them more susceptible to being damaged. If you do have damaged screen door frames it is usually repaired by resealing the gap with silicone lubricant and applying new sealant around the perimeter of the glass.