How to Repair a Sliding Patio Door
A variety of issues can cause difficulties in operating sliding patio doors. Fortunately, the majority of these problems can be fixed easily.
The easiest method to repair your sliding patio door is by cleaning it. You'll need a brush and soapy water to thoroughly clean the tracks. Next you can lubricate them to improve their movement.
1. Tracks that are damaged or dirty Tracks
Dirt and debris in the track are the most common cause of a sticky patio door. Bird droppings, pine straw and salt, sand, winter roads and other nasty things can block the track. It is important to regularly lubricate and scrub your sliding doors.
Start by putting on some rubber gloves and a pair of safety goggles to protect your eyes. Utilize a shop vacuum cleaner or a brush to get rid of any loose gunk. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray a small amount the solution onto your cleaning brushes and scrub the track. Rinse and dry the area with paper towels. This will stop scratching and further damage to the track and sill.
Once the tracks are clean then grab the toothbrush and go there to scrub the tougher areas that are stuck. You can also smooth rough spots on the bottom tracks and then replenish the wheels with lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
A door that is not aligned properly could be caused by rollers that are not aligned properly. This can be corrected by adjusting the rollers' height as well as their position. When you replace the weather stripping, it's a good idea to do so to ensure that it fits snugly and increase energy efficiency.
Leaks from the track are an issue that could lead to mold growth and structural damage to your home. You may be able fix the problem yourself when the leak is restricted to a specific section of the track. Simply replace the joint. If however, the issue is extensive, it's best to call in an expert to fix the patio door.
2. Broken or damaged screen
A patio door that isn't designed for adequate airflow could make your home feel stuffy and uncomfortable. It can also create a cozy entryway for pests like mosquitoes and flies. It is recommended to contact a professional when you spot the screen is damaged or there is a fog in between the glass panes.
If you have a standard sliding patio door, the simplest solution is to replace your screen with a new one. Screen material is available in pre-measured roll sizes that will fit most common door sizes. You can also purchase a complete screen repair kit that includes the screen, spline and roller all in one package.
repairmywindowsanddoors of installing a new screen begins by laying the replacement material on a solid surface. Then, use your scissors to cut it to length to ensure that an inch or two of the screen overlaps on each side of the frame. Next, remove the old spline and any screen that's left from the window frame with your utility knife.
Now you can put down the new screen spline beginning at the bottom left corner of the frame and work through the entire perimeter. Once the spline is in place, run your screen rolling tool over it several times to push it tightly into the groove of the frame. Cut off any excess screen and spline using your utility knife, being careful not to cut the inside of the window frame. You should also check the spline for any ripples or distortions and adjust the screen as needed.
3. Seals that leak
If you notice water getting trapped or pooling between the glass panes of your patio door, it is an indication that the frame and seals have lost their strength. This can lead to rot and mold, not to mention increased costs for energy due to drafts and air leakage.
Leaking seals can be caused by improperly installed flashing or caulking. It is important to hire an experienced professional who will install patio doors and ensure that the frame is caulked and flashed.
You'll want to fill in any cracks or gaps with caulking that is designed for your specific type of weather. If you live in a region that has humid climates, such as Ontario and the like, then you'll need to choose caulking products that are able to withstand humidity.
The shims that are placed under the door frame may also cause leaks. They are typically made of wood and help keep the sheathing at a level with the framing. But, if they are not properly installed, they may create a gap which allows moisture to get into your home.
Spraying the frame using a garden nozzle or hose is an excellent method to test seals. If you notice a mist coming in through these areas, you need to call a professional come take a closer look at the installation. You may only need to apply a bit of caulking or replace the shims. In any case it's important to address these issues promptly. will prevent costly repairs and damages down the road. It is always better to take the initiative in repairing your patio door and frame rather than wait until it is too late!
4. Warped Frame
When wood is exposed to external forces like a fluctuation in humidity, it will absorb and lose moisture, which could cause the frame to warp. If a frame is sagging, it can make the door less functional and ultimately cause damage or even complete failure. This is particularly the case for doors that divide garages and basements with damp living spaces.
A warped frame can usually be fixed with minor repairs. Begin by checking the frame to ensure that all the screws and bolts have been tightened and secured. Replace any screws that are missing or loose. Replace the hinge screws by larger ones, with a preference of 2 inches or more. This allows the screw get into the wall framing instead of the door jamb, which will pull the frame back in place.
You can also add shims. These are thin pieces that can be placed on top of the hinges. This will allow you to fine-tune the way that the frame is placed. Shims can assist in supporting the frame and distribute the weight evenly over more of a larger area, which will prevent the frame from becoming more warped over time.
You might want to engage an expert to repair severe frame warps. A professional will inspect the frame in depth to determine the severity and provide a complete solution. They can also install bracing in order to strengthen the frame to prevent it from sagging. This is usually the most durable and cost-effective alternative to buying new patio door components. If the frame is significantly warped, it may be necessary to replace the entire jamb of the door instead of just the door.
5. Cosmetic Damage
Over time, patio doors can show the effects of wear and tear. Damage to the surface can make your doors look less appealing and impact the overall appearance of your home. The positive side is that the majority of cosmetic damage can be repaired by using bonding fillers and paint. However should the door have significant dents or cracks, it will be best to replace it rather than trying to repair it.
Similar to the seal around windows, a door's weatherstripping may become less effective as time passes. It could result in gaps that allow outside air to get into your home, which leads to higher energy bills. A professional door repair specialist can install new weatherstripping to decrease energy loss and increase insulation.
Moisture on the exterior of doors is always a bad thing, but it's especially risky when it comes to your patio doors. This moisture can cause wood rot, which can be costly and difficult to repair. Water leaks should be repaired immediately by an expert.
Over time, a patio door can be misaligned due to regular use or foundation changes. This can cause the patio doors to jam, or make it difficult to open and shut. A technician for door repair can realign the hinges and tracks to ensure smooth operation. They can also replace worn-out hinges and rollers to restore proper functionality.