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10 Unexpected Patio Doors Repairs Tips
Patio Doors Repairs

Patio doors provide homeowners with natural sunlight and fresh air, and they enhance the value of a house. Over time, however, they may develop problems that require immediate attention.

Understanding how patio doors work can help homeowners communicate better with contractors about problems they face. Here are some common repairs for patio doors:.

Rollers that are not aligned

It's sometimes difficult to open a patio sliding door. However, unless there's an underlying structural issue, most doors that aren't cooperating can be fixed by a bit of cleaning and lubrication. The most common culprit is dirt on the lower track, which can cause the rollers to be pushed against the track below and cause them to become misaligned. In this situation, you'll need to clean the track and apply a light coating of lubricant to let the rollers glide smoothly.

The misalignment could also be due to wear or damage in the hinges that connect the door panels, which house some of the rollers, springs, whether torsion or extension; and cables, which raise the door. These components, when damaged or worn, may alter the alignment of rollers and cause resistance and other issues, such as the door feeling heavier or a rise in energy costs. Regular maintenance checks and periodic professional inspections can ensure that all the components work harmoniously to keep your patio door functioning smoothly.

To verify the alignment between rollers and alignment, place the crow's feet at the one end of the track. Then use a tramming stick to sweep across both rollers, observing the distance that each travels. Repeat the same process at the opposite end of the track and divide by two to determine the alignment of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as precise as using a pi tape to measure diameter directly. However, it's quicker and easier than using a carpenter's level to measure each rail.

You can also verify the alignment of the rollers by taking off the head stop. It is a flat plate that is situated at the bottom of your door jamb. It stops the rollers. This requires removing any grilles or shades that are removable and, in the event that the door is heavy, you should seek assistance in this process. After the head stop has been removed, remove the screws that adjust the head track by removing them with an screwdriver. Reinstall the assembly by aligning each adjustment screw with its access hole and tapping it in with a Hammer.

Tracks that are damaged or dirty

Sliding patio doors are magnets for dirt, debris and other elements outside. They are also prone to misalignment, and other issues which may require professional assistance to fix. To prolong the lifespan of your patio doors, it's essential to find and fix these issues as soon as possible.

Dirty tracks are one of the most frequent causes of problems with sliding patio doors. Over time,, food debris, pet hair, and yard debris can get stuck in the small spaces of the track of your sliding door which can cause the door to become stuck or become difficult to open. To avoid these issues it is recommended to clean and vacuum your patio door tracks at least once every month. After you've removed all of the debris that is loose then you can use a non-abrasive home cleaning solution or warm soapy water to wipe down your patio door tracks. If you notice that certain parts of the track are difficult to clean, use a butter knife or toothbrush to clean these tiny areas.

It is also recommended to lubricate the tracks frequently to prevent sliding doors from 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 regular basis. You can also rub paraffin wax on the track to enhance the glide.

Air leaks or drafts can also impact your sliding patio doors. This could occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has worn out or is damaged. This can cause a gap between your sliding patio door and the frame. This lets air in and decreases the efficiency of energy. Check that your weather stripping is in good working order and replace it if required.

Over time your patio door could experience normal wear. However these issues are usually not a sign of a significant issue. In most cases, minor repairs can prolong the lifespan of your patio door and ensure it is functioning properly. Get in touch with a professional as soon as you notice any problems to avoid costly repairs.

Glass that is cracked or warped

A patio door that's cracked or warped could be a major eye-sore and can pose an security risk. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors can also permit unwanted animals to enter your home and cause the temperature to fluctuate. Fortunately, these issues are usually fixable if you catch them early.

A quick glance at the glass will help determine what type of repair is needed. Cracks in glass are usually caused by impact or stress. These are more difficult to repair than chips on the surface. A professional will probably require re-leading the panel. This would require taking the glass off and cleaning, as well as replacing any broken pieces. This is why an expert will require precise documentation of the piece as it was originally viewed to aid in comparing the new glass to the original.

Plastic epoxy can be used to fill in a crack. You can buy this at a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will use the soldering tool to melt the plastic then apply it on the crack. After it has been cool, the professional can clean any excess.


If the glass crack is small, there may be a chance to repair it with clear sealant. You can purchase this type of sealant at any hardware retailer. It is essential to thoroughly dry the crack before applying sealant. This will ensure that the repair is successful. A hair dryer or other fan can be used to expedite this process.

Weatherstripping damaged

A worn-out weather stripping is not just ugly and poses a security threat it also lets outside air and heat out. You can save money by replacing the weather stripping in your home.

First, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes a replacement weather stripping kit, or caulk sealant or adhesive (depending on your chosen repair method) and scissors, pliers, a utility knife, and a pair of gloves or goggles that are protective. Remove the old weather stripping, by cutting through an end piece and pulling up using any screws that are attached, if applicable. Then take care to remove any pieces still left in the pliers or pry bar.

Begin by measuring the space around the door frame. Make use of the measurements to determine the size of weather stripping you need. Be sure to leave an extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you've found the perfect size, apply the adhesive backing and press it against the frame. If you wish, nail it to the frame with the nail or hammer.

Apply wood filler to the frame to fill any holes or divots. Let the filler dry completely before applying paint. It is recommended to use oil-based paints however, latex paint can also be used.

Lastly, make sure to clean your tracks and sliding doors regularly. Taking the time to do this prevents sticking and other problems in the future. Maintaining and repairing your patio doors will ensure that they remain attractive, functional and energy efficient. When you do this, you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence, and save money in the process! Happy home-fixing!

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