What NOT To Do When It Comes To The Patio Doors Repair Industry
Patio Doors Repair - How to Fix a Wet Dog and Save Your Dog From Cold, Wet Feet
Patio doors can provide a convenient and comfortable transition between your outdoor and indoor space. They also help save money on cooling and heating bills by keeping air inside your home.
But over time, your sliding glass or French doors could lose their shine. However, simple repairs can keep them looking and operating like new.
Weatherstripping
You're walking your dog to the park around 5 AM, and you end up into a puddle near your sliding patio door. You turn around to see that the rain of last night has blown through the seals of your patio doors. Don't panic and be prepared for this to be a quick fix. But with a little patience and some tools to fix this, you can get it fixed and keep your dog safe from cold, wet feet.
It is crucial to replace the weatherstripping which seals off the gap between your door and jamb. This will prevent drafts, pests and moisture. This will also help keep your energy bills low. If you inspect your doors and windows you can tell whether the weatherstripping has to be replaced or not.
There are many types of weatherstripping that you can choose from such as open-cell and felt foam, vinyl and thermoplastic rubber, as well as metals like copper or bronze. Each type has advantages and disadvantages. Open-cell foam and felt are both inexpensive, but they also tend to be visible and not effective at blocking airflow. Vinyl is more expensive, but it's also durable and resistant to moisture. Rubber is a great choice for areas that are heavily used because it won't wear out as easily.
To install new weatherstripping, you must first remove the patio door from the frame by loosening the screws that adjust the rollers using the aid of a screwdriver. Then, with a flathead screwscrew, unscrew plugs that hold the weatherstripping to the bottom of the frame. Then, pull out the old weatherstripping and scrape any adhesive from the frame's bottom. Then, cut the new to the proper length, peel off the plastic strip at one end, and then apply it using a putty-blade to the jamb.
After that, you can reinstall the door and adjust the roller screws so that the door sits in the track and is closed properly. Apply caulk that is waterproof where the stationary panel is positioned to block sliding doors and where the edge of the panel is the frame. This is a less secure seal than the weatherstripping, but it should work for a while.
Locks and handles
Patio door handles and locks play a crucial role in the security of your home. Over time, they can get damaged or worn out and require replacement. Additionally, the spindle which connects the exterior and interior handles could also require to be replaced.
To replace the handle on the patio door, take out the old one first, unscrewing any screws holding it in the place. After the handle has been removed, use a level to make sure the door is straight prior to installing the new handle. If the door isn't straight, it could interfere with the lock. This could cause issues in the future.
After you have the new handle Close and open it several times to make sure it works correctly. If you experience any issues you are having trouble, contact the manufacturer or a specialist in hardware for assistance. It's recommended to lubricate the lock mechanism by using a silicone-based oil to avoid any future issues.
The most common type of patio door lock is a mortise latch. It is usually made of steel and fits inside a pocket which has been cut into the frame of the door. These locks are used on wood and aluminum sliding doors. When replacing patio door repair is important to measure a few things prior to ordering a new one. You'll need to be aware of the location of the mounting holes as well as the location in the lock of the keyway.
Certain patio door handles come with a built-in locking mechanism that's integrated into the handle. The handles have the key cylinder in a rectangular shape that fits into the handle's keyway. This type of patio door includes the inside and exterior locks in one piece. This type of patio door is most commonly found on aluminum sliding doors.
If your patio door latch does not stay locked the lock tongue might not be catching the hasp correctly. Another possibility is that your sliding door isn't parallel to the jamb on the side. Try opening the door about 1 inch and then spotting it against the frame to see if there is any gap between the door and the jamb. If there is a gap, adjust the rollers on the bottom left or right side of the patio until it is perfectly parallel with jamb.
Misalignment
As time passes the door's tracks and rollers can lose their proper alignment. This could cause the doors to become stuck or difficult to move. This can also let drafts and cold air into your home, which can reduce the efficiency of your energy. It is possible to correct the misalignment and prevented. Applying a silicone-based grease the rollers and tracks can make your doors glide again. This is a good option in order to ensure that your doors are operating at their best.
Another common issue with patio doors is a ripped screen, which is an issue or even a security risk. It may also hinder the doors from opening and closing properly, causing energy loss. In some cases the damaged screen can be replaced, however in other cases, it's best to replace the entire door. If you're experiencing a torn screen, make sure you clean it thoroughly and try not to turn the handles of the door the wrong way when closing and opening.
Over time, hinges may become loose due to normal wear and tear or excessive usage. This can be corrected by tightening screws regularly. It's a simple job you can perform yourself. If you're not confident, it is best to seek out a professional.
It's also a good idea to regularly clean your patio doors track and rollers. Simple vacuuming or brushing can take away dust and other debris that could interfere with the smooth operation your patio doors. You can make use of a specific tool for stubborn dirt or rust. It is possible to correct misalignment by tightening or inspecting the screws. Sometimes, it is necessary to replace the hinges to ensure a durable seal.
The alignment and performance of your patio doors may be affected when the frames are sagging or sliding. The shifting or warping could be caused by foundation changes but it could also result due to poor installation or regular use. A professional can repair or replace your patio door frame and ensure it's aligned properly so that it can function optimally.
Rollers
The sliding patio doors can be an excellent way to let the outdoors in and let in lots of light, but they need some attention to ensure they are moving smoothly. If you notice that you need to push the handle to get your door to move, or if it isn't as easy to slide as it used to it could be due to the rollers. Over time, the lower track can get clogged by dirt, sand, and mud. This makes it difficult for rollers to move. You can clean it up and spray it with a lubricant like 2Slick to see if it helps.
If the tracks are cleaned but the rollers don't glide freely it's time to replace them. There are a variety of replacement rollers to fit your door and the kind of track you have. They can be found at many hardware stores, however you'll need a partner to help with the removal and installation of the rollers. Before ordering replacements, get an accurate picture of the roller assembly installed in the door frame, so experts can identify the exact model and type you require. You can also look for distinctive characteristics like bumps, dimples, cut-outs and flared edges which can narrow down replacement options.
After replacing the rollers, you will need to reinstall the sliding door back into its frame. This is a heavy door, so you may require assistance. Check to see if there are any screws holding the track on either side of the frame. If they are you must ensure that they are loose enough to allow the door's bottom to fall into the channel that is above the frame. Remove the screen door from the opening. Make sure that it is clear of the track rollers, track and track.
After putting in the new rollers, gently slide the door into the frame. It should be lowered to make sure it is secure. If the rollers are adjustable you can adjust them so that the door has enough clearance.