How to Repair a Sliding Patio Door
A variety of problems can cause difficulties in operating sliding patio doors. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be fixed easily.
Cleaning your patio door sliding will make it easier to fix it. You'll need brushes and soapy water to thoroughly clean the tracks. You can then lubricate the tracks to improve their performance.
1. Dirty or Damaged Tracks
One of the main causes of a squeaky or sticky patio door is dirt and debris that has accumulated in the track. Bird droppings, pine straw, sand and salt from winter roads, and other nasties things can cause a blockage in the track. It is essential to regularly lubricate and scrub your sliding doors.
Put on some rubber gloves and goggles to shield your eyes. Make use of a shop vacuum or a brush to get rid of any loose gunk. Then, mix equal amounts of water and white vinegar in the spray bottle. Spray a small amount of the solution on your cleaning brushes, and scrub the track. Rinse and dry the area with paper towels. This will prevent scratching and further damage to the sill and track.
After the tracks have been cleaned, use a toothbrush to scrub the areas that are stuck. You can also smooth rough spots on the bottom tracks and then relubricate the wheels to restore smooth operation.
Another reason for a squeaky door is the misalignment of the rollers that can be remedied by adjusting the height and positioning of the rollers. When replacing the weather stripping, it's a great idea to do it to ensure a secure fitting and increase energy efficiency.
Leaking tracks are also an issue that can result in to structural damage and mold growth in your home. If the leak is confined to a particular section of the track, you may be able fix it yourself by resealing the joint. However, if the problem is widespread, it's recommended to call in an expert to fix the patio door.
2. Broken or damaged screen
A patio door that doesn't allow for a good air flow can make your home feel stale and uncomfortable. It could also be a perfect entry point for pests like mosquitoes and flies. You should call a professional immediately if you notice a broken screen or fog that has formed between the glass panes.
If you have an old screen on your patio door, it's easiest to replace it with a new screen. Screen material is available in pre-measured rolls that will fit most common door sizes. You can also purchase full screen repair kit that includes the screen, spline, and roller in one package.
To install the new screen, begin by locating a flat surface you can work from and then lay out your replacement material on it. Then, using your scissors, cut it into lengths so that about an inch or two of the screen overlaps on both sides of the frame. Then, take the old spline along with any screen that is left over from the window frame with your utility knife.
Now you can lay out the new screen spline starting at the bottom-left corner of the frame. Then, work your way up to the edges. Once the spline has been put in place, run the screen rolling tool across it several times, pushing it in the groove of the frame. Trim any excess screen and spline with your utility knife, making sure not to cut through the inside of the window frame. Check the spline and see if there are any distortions or ripples. Adjust the screen if needed.
3. Seals that leak
If you notice that water is building up around the patio door, or getting stuck between the glass panes, it's a clear indication that your frame and seals are deteriorating. This can lead to rot and mold as well as increased energy costs due to drafts and air leakage.
Leaking seals are usually caused by improperly installed caulking or flashing. It is crucial to employ an experienced professional who is able to install patio doors and make sure that the frame is caulked and flashed.
In addition to installing the flashing, you'll also be sure that any cracks or gaps are sealed with caulking that is rated for use with your specific type of weather conditions. If you live in an area with a humid climate, like Ontario or the province of Ontario, you'll want to select the caulking product that is able to withstand humidity.
The shims that are placed under the door frame may also cause leaks. These are usually made of wood and help keep the sheathing at a level with the framing. But in the event that they aren't properly installed, they may create a gap which allows moisture to enter your home.
One method to test your seals is by spraying the frame using the help of a garden nozzle or hose. If you see the presence of a mist in these areas, call an expert to visit and conduct a more thorough examination of the installation. It's possible to add a few caulks or change the shims. In either case, fixing the issue quickly will prevent future damage and costly repairs. It is always better to be proactive about repairing your patio door and frame instead of waiting until it's too late!
4. Warped Frame
When wood is exposed outside forces, such as a change of humidity, it can absorb or lose moisture, which could cause warping. When a sagging frame develops, it can make the door harder to operate and eventually lead to damage or complete failure. This is especially true for doors that separate garages and basements with damp living areas.
A warped frame can usually be corrected by a few minor repairs. Start by examining the frame to make sure that all of the screws and bolts are tight and secure. Replace any screws that are missing or loose. Then, you can replace hinge screws with longer ones that are 2 or more inches long. This will allow the screw to bite into the wall framing instead of the door jamb, and pull the frame back into position.
You can also add shims. These are thin pieces that can be placed in front of the hinges. This allows you to adjust how the frame is positioned. Shims can help support the frame and spread the weight evenly over a larger area. This will prevent the frame becoming more distorted over time.
You may want to hire an expert to repair more severe frame warps. A professional can perform an exhaustive examination to determine the severity of the problem and provide you with a complete repair solution. They can also install bracing in order to strengthen the frame and stop it from sagging. In most instances, this is a more cost-effective and durable solution than simply purchasing new patio door parts. If patio door lock repairs near me is significantly warped, it may be necessary to replace the entire jamb of the door instead of just the door itself.
5. Cosmetic Damage
Over time, patio doors experience a fair amount of wear and tear. Surface damage can leave your doors looking less than desirable and impact the look of your home. The good news: most cosmetic damage can be easily repaired with bonding fillers and paint. However when the door has significant dents or cracks, it will be best to replace it instead of trying to repair it.
Weatherstripping on doors can lose its effectiveness with time, just like the seal around windows. This can lead to gaps that allow air from outside to get into your home, causing an increase in energy bills. A door repair professional can install new weatherstripping to decrease energy loss and improve insulation.
Moisture on the outside of your door is never good news however patio doors are especially vulnerable to it. This moisture can lead to wood rot that is costly and difficult to repair. Water leaks should be addressed immediately by a professional.
Over time, a patio door can become misaligned due to normal use or foundation changes. This can cause the patio doors to become jammed, or make it difficult to open and close. A door repair technician can adjust the hinges and tracks to ensure smooth operation. They can also replace worn rollers and hinges in order to restore functionality.