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 outdoor and indoor space. They can also save you money on cooling and heating costs by keeping the air inside your home.
But with time your sliding glass or French doors can lose their appeal. Simple repairs can keep your sliding glass or French doors looking and working like new.
Weatherstripping
You're walking your dog to the park at 5 am when you get into a puddle near your sliding patio door. You turn around and see that the rain from last night has blown through the seals of your patio doors. Be prepared it's not going to be a quick fix. However, with a little patience and some tools to fix the issue, you'll be able to do it and keep your dog safe from cold, wet feet as well.
The most important thing is to replace the weatherstripping which seals the gap between your door and the jamb, which prevents drafts, pests and moisture. This will also keep your energy bills down. A quick examination of your windows and doors will let you know whether the weatherstripping is in good condition or requires replacement.
There are a variety of weatherstripping that are available, including felt, open-cell foam, thermoplastic rubber, and metals such as bronze or copper. Each type has advantages and disadvantages. Open cell foam and felt are both inexpensive however they can be ineffective and visible at blocking airflow. Vinyl is more costly, however, it's more durable and resistant to moisture. Rubber is an excellent choice for areas with high traffic because it does not wear as fast.
To install new weatherstripping, you must first remove the patio doors from the frame using a screwdriver to loosen the roller adjustment screws. Then using upvc patio door repairs near me Repair My Windows And Doors , loosen the screws that secure the weatherstripping on the bottom of the frame. Remove the weatherstripping you have previously removed from the frame and remove any adhesive residue. Then, cut the replacement to the correct length, then peel back the plastic strip on one side and then apply it to the jamb using a putty knife.
After that, you can reinstall the door and readjust the roller screws to ensure that the door is in the track and is closed properly. Apply waterproof caulk where the stationary panel bypasses sliding doors and at the point where the edge of the panel joins the frame. This is a less secure seal than the weatherstripping, however, it will last for a few days.
Handles and locks
Locks and handles for your patio door are crucial to the security of your home. Over time, they may get damaged or worn out and require replacement. Additionally, the spindle that connects the exterior and interior handles may also need to be replaced.
To replace the handle on a patio door, you must remove the old one first by dislodging any screws that held it in the place. After you have removed the old handle, you can use a level and make sure that the patio door is straight. If the door isn't straight, it could cause problems for the lock. This could lead to problems in the future.
Once you have the new handle, close and open it a few times to ensure it functions properly. If you have any issues, check the instructions of the manufacturer or a hardware specialist for assistance. It's also a good idea to lubricate the lock mechanism by using a silicone-based oil to avoid future issues.
The most commonly used type of patio door lock is a mortise lock. It's usually made of steel and sits inside a pocket carved into the door frame. These types of locks are found on aluminum and wood sliding doors. Before purchasing a replacement mortise lock, it is essential to take some measurements. It is essential to know the location of the mounting holes and the location in the lock of the keyway.
Some handles for patio doors are equipped with a locking mechanism built into the handle. These handles have a rectangular key cylinder that fits inside the handle's keyway. This type of patio door includes the inside and exterior locks in one piece. This kind of patio door are typically found on sliding aluminum doors.
If your patio door latch does not stay locked the lock tongue might not be properly catching the hasp. Another possibility is that the sliding door isn't completely parallel with the jamb on the side. Try opening the door for about an inch and placing it against the frame to see whether there is any gap between the door and the jamb. If there is a gap, reposition the rollers on the bottom left or right of the patio until it is exactly parallel to the jamb.
Misalignment
As time passes over time, the tracks and rollers of the door may lose their alignment. This can cause the doors to become stuck or difficult to move. It could also allow cold air and draughts infiltrate your home, which can reduce the efficiency of your home's energy usage. Fortunately, misalignment can be easy to correct and prevent. Applying a silicone-based grease the rollers and tracks can make your doors glide again. It's a good idea to do this periodically to ensure that your doors are in peak operating condition.
Another common problem with patio doors is a ripped screen, which could be an inconvenience or even a security risk. It could also stop the doors from closing and opening properly, causing energy loss. In some instances the damaged screen can be replaced, but in others it's necessary to replace the entire door. If you're experiencing a tear in your screen, make sure you clean it thoroughly and make sure to avoid turning the handles of the door the wrong way when you open and close the door.
Over time, hinges may become loose due to normal wear and tear or excessive usage. This can be corrected by regularly tightening screws. It's a simple job you can tackle on your own. However, if you're not confident with the task, you should consult a professional.
You should also clean the tracks and rollers of your patio doors frequently. A simple brushing or vacuuming can remove dirt and dust that could impede the smooth operation of your patio doors. You can also employ a specific tool to clean away stubborn dirt or rust. Checking and tightening the screws on the hinges may help with misalignment however, sometimes it's necessary to replace them all together to ensure a solid and long-lasting seal.
If your frames for your patio doors are warped or sagging, this can affect their alignment and performance. Shifting or warping can occur due to changes in the foundation of your home, but could be caused due to poor installation or due to frequent use. A professional can repair or replace your patio door frame, and ensure that it is properly aligned. This will allow it to function at its best.
Rollers
The sliding patio doors are a great way to bring the outdoors in and let in plenty of light, however they need some care to ensure that they're running smoothly. If you need to pull the handle hard to get the door to move or it isn't sliding as it used to, it could be the rollers. Over time, the lower track can be clogged with dirt, sand, and mud. This makes it difficult for rollers to move. Clean it and spray it with a lubricant, such as 2Slick to see if that helps.
If the tracks are cleaned and the rollers still aren't able to move freely It's time to replace the tracks. Replacement rollers are available for your door and track. You can buy these at most hardware stores, but will need someone to assist you in the removal and install the rollers. Take a picture of the roller assembly within the frame to help the experts determine the exact type and model you require. You can also look for specific characteristics like bumps, dimples and cut-outs and flared edges that could narrow your the options for replacement.
After replacing the rollers, you'll have to reinstall the sliding door back into its frame. This is a very heavy door, and you might require help. Make sure there are screws that hold the track on either side of the frame. If they are, make sure they are loose enough to allow the bottom of door to slide into the channel that is above the frame. Remove the screen door from the opening. Make sure that it is free of the track rollers, track and track.
After you have installed the new rollers, gently insert the door into the frame. Swing it down to make sure it is secure. If your new rollers are adjustable, you can adjust them to allow the door to move in the areas it requires it.