The 3 Greatest Moments In Patio Doors Repair History
Patio Doors Repair - How to Fix a Wet Dog and Save Your Dog From Cold, Wet Feet
Patio doors are an excellent way to connect your home with the outdoors. They offer a relaxing and easy transition. By keeping the air in your home, they could help you save cash on cooling or heating costs.
However, over time your sliding glass or French doors could lose their appeal. However, simple repairs can keep them looking and working like new.
Weatherstripping
You're walking your dog to the park at 5 AM when you step into a puddle next to your sliding patio door. You look around and realize that the rain of last night ripped through the seals of your patio doors. This won't be an easy task. With a bit of patience and a few tools to fix the issue, you'll be able to do it and protect your dog from wet, cold feet as well.
It is important to replace the weatherstripping that seals off the gap between your door and jamb. patio door replacement glass will prevent drafts, pests, and moisture. This will also keep your energy bills low. A quick inspection of your windows or doors will tell you if the weatherstripping is in good condition or requires replacement.
There are a variety of weatherstripping available such as open-cell and felt foam, thermoplastic rubber, and metals like bronze or copper. Each type has advantages and disadvantages. Felt and open cell foam are inexpensive however they can be ineffective and noticeable at blocking airflow. Vinyl is more expensive, but it's durable and resistant to moisture. Rubber is a great option for areas that have high traffic because it will not wear out as fast.
To install new weatherstripping, you must first remove the patio door from the frame by loosening the roller adjustment screws using the aid of a screwdriver. Then, using a flathead screwdriver, remove the plugs that hold weatherstripping at the bottom of the frame. Remove the weatherstripping that was previously installed from the frame and remove any adhesive remnants. Then, trim the new to the correct length, peel off the plastic strip at one end, and apply it using a putty blade to the jamb.
After you're done, put back the door and readjust the roller screws to ensure that the door is positioned in the track and shuts properly. Then, apply caulk on the area where the stationary panel bypasses the sliding door, and where the edge of the stationary panel reaches the frame. This is a less-reliable seal than the weatherstripping however, it should last for a few days.
Handles and locks
Patio door handles and locks are essential to ensure the security of your home. Over time, they may get damaged or worn out and require replacement. Additionally, the spindle which connects the exterior and interior handles may also need to be replaced.
To replace a handle on a patio door first remove the previous handle by removing any screws that are holding it in place. After the handle has been removed using a level, ensure that the patio door is straight prior to installing the new handle. If the door is not straight it could hinder the lock and cause problems in the future.
Close and open the handle several times after installation to make sure it's working correctly. If you encounter any issues ask the manufacturer or a hardware expert for assistance. To avoid problems in the future it is recommended to also lubricate your lock mechanism using lubricant made of silicone.
The most common type of patio door lock is a mortise latch. It is usually made of steel and sits in a pocket that is cut into the door frame. They are usually used on sliding wood and aluminum doors. Before purchasing a replacement mortise lock, it is essential to measure. The measurements you require include the location of the mounting holes and the position of the keyway within the lock.
Certain patio door handles have the ability to lock the handle. These handles have a rectangular key cylinder that fits into the handle's keyway. This kind of patio door has both the exterior and inside locks in one piece. This type of patio door is most often found on aluminum sliding doors.
If your patio door latch isn't able to stay closed it could be because the lock tongue may not be catching the hasp in the right way. Another possibility is that your sliding door isn't aligned to the jamb's 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 at the bottom left or the right side of the patio to make it exactly parallel to the jamb.
Misalignment
Over time the tracks and rollers will lose their proper alignment. This can cause the doors to become stuck or difficult to move. It could also allow cold air and drafts to enter your home, which can reduce energy efficiency. Misalignment can be easily fixed and prevented. Applying a silicone-based lubricant to the rollers and tracks will allow your doors to move smoothly once again. It's a good idea to do this periodically to ensure your doors are in top operating condition.
Another issue that is common to patio doors is a torn screen, which could be a nuisance or even a safety risk. It can also prevent the doors from opening and closing properly, leading to energy loss. In some cases, the screen can be repaired, but in other cases the door needs to be replaced. If you're experiencing a torn screen, clean it thoroughly and make sure not to turn the handles of the door the wrong way when closing and opening.
Over time, hinges can loosen due to wear and tear or use. This can be fixed by tightening screws regularly. It's a simple job you can tackle on your own. However, if you're not confident with the task, you should seek out an expert.
It is also recommended to clean the tracks and rollers of your patio doors frequently. A simple brushing or vacuuming can get rid of dust and debris that could hinder the smooth operation of your patio doors. You can also use a specific tool to clean away stubborn dirt or rust. It is possible to correct misalignment by tightening or inspecting the screws. However, sometimes it is necessary to replace the hinges in order to ensure a durable seal.
If your patio doors' frames are warped or sagging, this can affect their alignment and performance. The warping or shifting may occur due to changes in the foundation of your home, but can be caused by poor installation or simply due to frequent use. A professional can replace or repair your patio door frame, and ensure that it is properly aligned. This will allow it to perform its best.
Rollers
The sliding patio doors can be a great way to bring the outdoors in and let in plenty of light, but they need some care to ensure they are running smoothly. If you notice that you need to really push the handle to get the door to move, or if it isn't as easy to slide as it used to then the problem could be the rollers. In time, the lower track can get clogged by dirt, sand, and mud. This makes it difficult for rollers to move. You can clean it and spray it with a lubricant like 2Slick to determine if it helps.
If the tracks are cleaned but the rollers aren't able to move freely it's time to replace them. There is a variety of replacement rollers to fit your door and the kind of track you have. They can be found at most hardware stores, but 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 placed in the door frame so the experts can identify the exact model and type you need. They can also look out for specific features like bumps or dimples or cutouts, flared edges or cutouts to narrow down the replacement options.
After replacing the rollers, you'll need to put the sliding door into its frame. Get some help in this regard as the door is very heavy. Begin by making sure there aren't any screws holding the track in position on either side of the frame, and that they are loose enough to allow the bottom of the door to drop into the channel on the top of the frame. If there's screen doors, take it from the opening and ensure it's free of track and rollers.
When the new rollers have been installed, carefully insert the door into the frame, then swing it back into position. If the new rollers are adjustable, you can adjust them to allow the door to move to the extent it requires.