The Reasons Sliding Patio Door Repair Is More Difficult Than You Imagine
Sliding Patio Door Repairs
A sliding patio door is an ideal option to let in more natural light and enjoy your outdoor space. But, if the door isn't gliding smoothly or looks dirty it could be a real headache.
Most of these problems are fixable with a few DIY skills. Here are a few common issues and their solutions:
Dirty or Damaged Tracks
Over time, a sliding patio door's tracks could be clogged with dirt, dust and other debris. A regular cleaning routine and lubrication will help to ensure that your door can move smoothly.
Cleaning the track is the first step. A filthy track could cause the door to stick, or even make it impossible to be shut or open. Begin by sweeping off any particles that are floating around. Make use of a brush and an appropriate cleaning solution to get rid of any visible dirt. Be sure to go into the nooks and crevices, as well as any areas where the door meets the frame.
After you've scrubbed your track, wash it by using an bucket or hose filled with clean water. Apply lubricant from a store to stop rusting and to displace moisture. Before reinstalling the door try moving it back and forth to determine whether it can move freely.
If your door continues to stick it could be because the rollers have been damaged or misaligned. This could cause the door to move slower. In most cases, you can fix this by adjusting the wheels and lubricating them. If your door is old, however it might be time to consider a new replacement. Before reassembling the track, lay a piece of 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. Insert a screwdriver in each hole and turn them counterclockwise to retract the rollers. This will allow you the space you'll need to take out 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 thing is that a loose handle can be fixed easily. Make use of a screwdriver to tighten the screws that connect the door handle in place to the strike plate. Be cautious not to tighten too much the screws, as this could cause damage to the inner mechanism, causing the handle to stop working properly.
The issue with a sliding patio door that isn't able to slide is usually caused by debris that blocks the rollers. Dirt, dust, hair and fur are often pushed 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 sliding patio door no longer works properly. It could be due to the lock being misaligned or having damaged handle. The lock mechanism can be repaired or the handle re-aligned.
A screen door that doesn't close or open isn't a pleasurable experience. A broken screen door can also be dangerous. If the screen is not aligned correctly with the door frame, it can rub against the frames and cause wear to the screen and the door. The solution to screen that isn't working properly is fairly simple. First, check whether the rod for latching is still in the correct position. If not, remove it and replace it with a new one. Reinstall the screen after replacing the rod that latches it. Check that the hinges are set correctly. Attach screws to the holes of the frame for a finished appearance.
Faulty Weatherstripping
The weather stripping helps seal the gap between your door and frame, preventing drafts and cold as well as insects. If yours is cracked, discoloured or hardened it's time to replace it. It's usually fairly easy to do. Some people simply cut out the worn section and replace it, but it's easier to replace the entire part.
First, ensure that the gap is not near the seat point where the weather strip is placed on the frame. If so, you will need to reseal the weather strip to the frame using weather strip adhesive.
Then, look around the perimeter of your weather strip. Utilize a dollar bill to check whether the weather strip is sealed. Place the bill halfway across the seal, and then close the door. If it is easy to pull it away from the flange made of metal on the weather strip, you need to replace it. If it is easy to remove, it is time to replace the weather strip.
You may need to lubricate your run channel (the groove composed of rubber and felt on both sides of the door) to prevent the build-up of ice in winter. You can purchase a spray lubricant at your local hardware store that will work however be sure not to splash any on the glass.
Spreading a thin layer of sand under your door will stop it from sticking, much as salt. Be sure to not leave any sand on the bottom of the door, though it may cause damage to the rubber and concrete of the weather strip over time.
Glass that is damaged
Many circumstances can result in sliding glass patio doors becoming damaged or broken. If it's caused by the impact of a bump or a knock or a bump, if your patio door glass becomes damaged, it is important to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your home is sealed and is properly insulated.
Over time, sliding doors are susceptible to damage from frequent use and exposure to elements. Patio doors that are not working properly can be caused by rusty rollers, damaged handles, or bent tracks. Specialists in sliding patio repair are able to quickly pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the part.
A damaged patio door can affect your energy bills in addition to the obvious damage. Drafts and noticeable temperature differences around the door are usually indications that there is a gap there between the frame and the glass. This is costly in both the winter and summer months when you have to pay to cool or heat your home.
It is possible to replace a broken glass panel on your sliding patio door without having to take out the entire door. In some cases it is the best option for you if you want to get your door back up and running as soon as you can. Whatever the case, whether you're replacing the glass or just the frame, it is essential to have all of the necessary tools available so that the job can be done safely and efficiently. This includes gloves, a small pry bar or hammer putty knife, tape a measuring tape and a glass replacement. DIY Door Store has all of these materials available to help you easily and affordably fix your own damaged sliding patio door.
Frame that is damaged or loose.
Sliding patio door systems are designed to permit easy indoor-outdoor movement and provide a natural flow. As with all home appliances, sliding patio doors are subject to wear and tear that could impact their performance. While double glazed patio door repairs can be easy to fix yourself but others require assistance from a professional to ensure your door is in top condition.
If you can see evidence of damage, such as scratches and dents It's time to replace your sliding door. These damages not only reduce the aesthetics of your patio doors, but they also affect security and energy efficiency.
Misaligned track or rollers are common issues that cause your sliding door to not function properly. This is usually due to dirt or debris accumulating on the track. You can solve this problem by using pliers to straighten the rails.
It is crucial to clean the tracks and rollers of your sliding patio doors as dirt can result in stiff or sticky doors that won't move smoothly. 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 aid in smooth operation and prevent premature wear.
Over time, slamming your patio door could cause severe damage to the frame and the glass panel. This can lead to broken or loose frames or tracks that are bent, as well as a handles that become difficult to open and close. Screen doors that slide open are generally more prone to this type of damage because the frames are generally less robust than those on glass sliding doors. However, if you've got damaged or broken frame for your screen door it is usually repaired by resealing the gap with silicone lubricant and then applying a new sealant around the perimeter of the glass.