Why The Biggest "Myths" About Patio Doors Repair May Actually Be Right
Patio Doors Repair - How to Fix a Wet Dog and Save Your Dog From Cold, Wet Feet
Patio doors create a convenient and comfortable transition between your indoor and outdoor space. They also help save money on heating and cooling bills by keeping air within your home.
Over time the shine of your sliding glass or French door may fade. However, simple repairs can keep them looking and functioning like new.
Weatherstripping
It's 5 AM and you're letting your dog out for his morning constitutional when you stumble into an emerald-colored pool of water right in front of your sliding patio doors. You look around and realize that the rain of last night blew through the patio door seals. This is not going to be an easy task. With a bit of patience and a few simple tools to fix it, you can get it fixed and prevent your dog's feet from becoming wet and cold.
It is crucial to replace the weatherstripping, which closes the gap between your door and jamb. This will prevent drafts, pests and moisture. It also keeps your energy bills lower. If you look at your doors and windows you can tell whether the weatherstripping should be replaced or not.
There are several types of weatherstripping available such as open-cell and felt foam, thermoplastic rubber, and metals like bronze or copper. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Felt and open-cell foam are not expensive, but they also tend to be visible and ineffective 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 remove the patio door from the frame by loosening the screws that adjust the rollers using the help of a screwdriver. Then, with a flathead screwscrew, unscrew plugs that hold the weatherstripping to the bottom of frame. Then, take out the weatherstripping that was previously in place and take off any remaining adhesive from the bottom of the frame. Then, cut the new to the proper length, then peel back the plastic strip at one end and apply it to the jamb with the putty knife.
Reinstall the door, and adjust the roller screws to ensure that it sits properly in the track. Then, apply waterproof caulk to the area where the stationary panel is positioned to bypass the sliding door, and where the edge of the stationary panel reaches the frame. This is not as secure a seal than the weatherstripping however, it will last for a few days.
Locks and handles
Patio door handles and locks are important for the security of your home. Over time, they may become worn or damaged and require replacement. In addition, the spindle that connects the exterior and interior handles could also need to be replaced.
To replace the handle on the patio door, take out the previous one first by taking off any screws that hold it in the place. Once the old handle has been removed using a level, make sure the patio door is straight prior to installing the new handle. If the door isn't in a straight line, it can interfere with the lock. This could cause issues in the future.
Close and open the handle several times after installation to ensure that it's functioning properly. If you experience any issues you are having trouble, contact the manufacturer or a hardware expert for assistance. It is recommended to lubricate the lock mechanism by using a silicone-based oil to avoid any future issues.
The most commonly used patio door lock is the mortise latch. It is typically made of metal and sits inside a pocket that has been cut into the door frame. These locks are typically used on sliding doors made of aluminum and wood. Before purchasing a replacement mortise lock, you need to take some measurements. You will need to know the location of mounting holes and the position within the keyway lock.
Some handles for patio doors are equipped with an locking mechanism that is built into the handle. These handles have a rectangular key cylinder that fits in the handle's keyway. This type of patio door has both the exterior and interior locks in one unit. This kind of patio door are typically found on sliding aluminum doors.
If the latch on your patio door doesn't stay latched the lock tongue might not be properly catching the hasp. Another possibility is that your sliding door isn't aligned to the jamb on the side. The door should be opened by about an inch, then place it against the frame. sliding patio door repair near me will show you if there is a gap between the door jamb and the door. If there is a gap, adjust the rollers at the bottom left or the right of the patio until it is perfectly parallel with jamb.
Misalignment
Over time the tracks and rollers of the door can lose their alignment. This can cause the door to sag or become difficult to move. This can also let cold air and draughts into your home, reducing energy efficiency. Misalignment can be easily fixed and prevented. Applying a silicone-based oil to the tracks and rollers can allow your doors to glide again. It's a good idea regularly do this to ensure your doors are in top operating condition.
A damaged or ripped screen can be an issue. It can cause inconvenience or even risky. In addition, it can hinder the doors from opening and closing correctly, which could lead to loss of energy. In some instances, the screen can be repaired, but in other cases the door must be replaced. If you've damaged your window screen, make sure to clean it thoroughly. Don't also turn the handles of the door in the wrong way.
Over time, hinges may become loose due to normal wear and tear or heavy usage. This can be corrected by tightening screws frequently. This is a simple task that can be done yourself, but if you're not confident doing it, consult an expert to make sure your doors are properly aligned and secure.
It's also a good idea to clean your patio doors track and rollers. Simple vacuuming or brushing can remove dust and debris which can hinder the smooth operation your patio doors. You can make use of a specific tool to remove tough dirt or corrosion. It is possible to correct any misalignment by tightening, or examining the screws. Sometimes, it is necessary to replace the hinges to ensure a durable seal.
If your frames for your patio doors are warped or sagging it can affect their alignment and performance. Warping or shifting can be caused by foundation issues, however, it can also result due to poor installation or regular use. A professional can repair or replace the frame of your patio door, and make sure it is properly aligned. This will allow it to perform its best.
Rollers
The sliding patio doors are a great way to bring the outdoors in and let in lots of light, but they need some care to ensure they are moving smoothly. If you find yourself having to pull the handle to get the door to move, or it doesn't slide like it did in the past, it could be the rollers. Over time, the lower track can fill with dirt, sand, and mud, making it difficult for the rollers to move over. You can clean it up and spray it with a lubricant such as 2Slick to see if it helps.
If the tracks are cleaned and the rollers still aren't able to move freely, it's time to replace them. There are many replacement rollers to fit your door and the type of track you have. These can be purchased at many hardware stores, however you'll need a friend to help with the removal and installation of the rollers. Take a photo of the roller assembly installed within the frame to help the experts determine the exact type and model you need. They can also look for features that can be identified, such as dimples or bumps or cutouts, flared edges or cutouts to narrow down alternatives for replacement.
When the rollers are replaced then you'll need to install your sliding door in its frame. This is a heavy door, and you might need some help. Check to see if there are screws that hold the track on either side of frame. If so you must ensure that they are loose enough for the bottom of door to drop into the channel above the frame. If you have a screen door, take it from the opening and ensure that it is free of the track and rollers.
When the new rollers have been installed, carefully insert the door into the frame and swing it down into place. If the rollers are adjustable you can adjust them to ensure that the door has enough clearance.