Learn The Sliding Patio Door Repair Tricks The Celebs Are Using
Sliding Patio Door Repairs
A sliding patio door is a wonderful way to let in more natural light and enjoy your outdoor space. But, if the door isn't functioning smoothly or appears dingy it can be a real headache.
Fortunately, a majority of these issues can be resolved with a little DIY know-how. Here are a few common issues and their solutions.
Dirty or damaged tracks
Over time the tracks of a sliding patio can get clogged with dust, dirt and other debris. Adding a regular cleaning routine and lubrication can ensure that your door is able to move smoothly.
Cleaning the track is the first step. A filthy track could cause the door to stick or cause it to be impossible to be shut or open. Begin by removing any debris that has fallen off using a brush. Then use the brush and cleaning solution to scrub away any visible dirt. Make sure you clean every corner and nook and also 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. Then, apply a lubricant from a shop that can displace moisture and prevent future rusting. Try moving it back and forth to see if you can move it without difficulty.
If your door still sticks it could be because the rollers are damaged or misaligned. This can also cause the door to become stuck. In most cases you can fix it by moving the wheels and lubricating. It might be time to replace them when your door is old. Before reassembling the track, lay a drop cloth on the floor. Then remove the two plugs covering the screws for adjustment of the rollers on the bottom of the frame. Install a screwdriver in each hole and turn them counterclockwise to pull the rollers back. This will give you the room you'll need to take out the door and place it on sawhorses.
Faulty Handle
In time the handle of your sliding door could be loosened from the strike plate it is connected to. The good news is, the issue of a loose handle is usually simple to solve. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws holding the door handle to the strike plate. Be careful not to overtighten as this could cause damage to the mechanism inside, and cause the handle to cease working properly.
If a sliding patio door becomes difficult to slide, the problem is usually caused by debris blocking the rollers. Hair, dust, dirt and fur often get into the tracks, causing the door to stop sliding smoothly. To promote smooth operation, start by cleaning the rollers.
Another common issue is when the lock on your patio door isn't working properly. This could be due to a misaligned lock or the handle is damaged. The lock mechanism can be replaced or the handle realigned.
A screen door that doesn't close or unlock isn't a pleasant experience. A damaged screen door could also be dangerous. If the screen isn't aligned correctly with the door frame it can rub against the frames and cause wear to the screen and the door. If your screen isn't functioning correctly, the solution is pretty easy. First, verify whether the rod for latching is still in the correct position. If it's not in its place, remove it and replace with the replacement. Reinstall the screen after replacing the rod for latching. Make sure the hinges are properly set. Install screws into the holes in the frame for a neat appearance.
Afflicted Weatherstripping
The weather stripping is used to seal the gap between your frame and door, preventing drafts and cold as well as insects. It's time to replace it if it's cracked, discoloured or hardened. It's generally not a difficult task. sliding patio door repairs near me replace the worn part, but it is much easier to replace the entire thing.
First, ensure that there isn't a gap near the seat where the weather strip is bonded to the frame. If it is, you'll need to seal the weather strip to the frame using weather strip adhesive.
Then, look around the perimeter of your weather strip. Utilize a dollar bill to determine whether the weather strip is sealed. Place the bill part-way across the seal, then close the door. If it's easy to pull it away from the flange of metal on the weather strip, it's time to replace it. If it's simple to do you're ready to replace it.
It is possible to lubricate your run channel (the groove made of felt and rubber on both sides of the door) to avoid ice buildup during winter. You can buy an oil spray at your local hardware store that works however be sure not to splash any on your glass.
Another option is to spread a thin layer of sand under your door before the snow starts falling, which will keep it from sticking to the door as salt does. Be careful not to leave any sand on the bottom of the door, however it could harm the rubber and concrete of the weather strip in time.
Damaged Glass
A variety of circumstances can lead to the glass of a sliding patio being damaged or broken. If your glass patio door is damaged by a knock or bump, or any other cause, it is vital to replace it immediately to ensure your home is adequately insulated and sealed.
Doors that slide can be damaged over time because of their regular use and exposure. Doors that aren't functioning properly could be caused by rusty rollers, defective handles or bent tracks. Repair experts for sliding patio doors are able to pinpoint the cause of the problem and fix any issues or replacements.
In addition to obvious damage, a broken patio door could also impact your energy costs. A gap between the frame of the patio door and the glass can result in drafts and temperature fluctuations. This can be costly in the summer and winter, when you have to pay for heating or cool your home.
You can repair a damaged panel on your sliding patio without having to remove the whole door. This is the ideal solution in certain situations when you want to get your sliding patio door up and running in a short time. Whatever the case, whether you're replacing the glass or the frame, it's essential to have all the required tools in your arsenal to ensure the task can be completed safely and efficiently. These include gloves and a small pry bar or hammer putty knife, tape a measuring tape and a replacement glass. DIY Door Store offers all the necessary tools to repair your broken patio doors quickly and easily.
Frames that are loose or damaged
Sliding patio doors are designed to allow easy outdoor-indoor movement and offer the natural flow. But, just like any other home appliance they're susceptible to wear and tear over time, which impacts their functionality. Some damages are easy to repair, while others require expert assistance to keep your door in top condition.
If you can see evidence of damage, such as scratches and dents It's likely time to replace your sliding door. These damages not only reduce the appearance of your patio doors but they also impact energy efficiency and security.
Rollers or tracks that are not aligned properly are common problems that cause your sliding door to not function properly. This is usually due to dirt or debris that have accumulated on the track. It is possible to fix this by using the 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 stuck, preventing them from moving easily. Using a hand brush or vacuum cleaner, or spray-down using jet washing can help to clear away any obstructive build-up. Use a silicone-based grease on your tracks to ensure smooth operation and avoid premature wear.
When repeated, slamming on the door to the patio could cause severe damage to the frame and the glass panel. This can result in a loose or broken frame or tracks that are bent, as well as a handles that are difficult to open and close. Screen door frames that slide tend to be less durable than glass sliding doors, which makes them more prone to damage. Fortunately, if you have damaged or broken frame for your screen door, this can often be repaired by sealing the gap using silicone lubricant, and then applying new sealant around the perimeter of the glass.