How to Repair Patio Doors
Patio doors that slide open enhance the look of your home and provide convenience and energy efficiency. They require regular maintenance in order to function as intended.
Doing these simple tasks can extend the life of your doors, and also reduce expensive repairs. In some instances the expertise of a professional may be necessary for more severe damage.
Clear the Tracks
If the sliding patio door gets stuck in its tracks, it may be difficult to open and close. This is typically a simple problem to fix. In the majority of cases, lubricating the door is all that's needed to move it.
Cleaning your patio's sliding doors and their tracks can help prevent the accumulation of dirt that could hinder the operation of the tracks. It's important to clean or scrub the tracks and sill every week to remove larger pieces of dirt. Then employ an absorbent sponge or a soft cloth with mild soap and warm water to wipe them down and wash them thoroughly. You can scrub the staining using a small brush, but you must be careful to not scratch or damage the tracks. Make sure you reach all the nooks and crannies of the tracks and sill, including tight spaces and corners.
After the sill and tracks are clean, they need to be cleaned with a lint-free cloth and then dried using paper towels. If you have white vinegar in your house you can use it to remove stains that are stubborn on the sill and tracks. Apply a small amount to a clean, soft cloth and rub the area with the stain. If the stain is persistent, try scrubbing with a small toothbrush or a small brush.
Maintaining your sliding patio doors and their tracks clean will make them last longer and make them operate more smoothly. It's recommended to clean them as often like you would your windows. Be sure to check the weather strip around the patio doors frequently and replace it if it's worn or damaged. This is a crucial step towards reducing energy costs and ensuring comfort indoors. If you notice drafts or a significant increase in your heating or cooling costs, it could be time to invest in new patio doors with improved insulation and weather stripping.
Lubricate the Locks
The lock mechanism needs to be kept in good condition to ensure smooth operation of the patio door. This can also prolong the lifespan of the lock as it will not be subjected to unnecessary wear and tears. You can apply graphite lock grease or light machine oil. The right lubricant can help to avoid gunk buildup which could cause the delicate pins in the lock to become damaged.
Graphite powder is an excellent method to lubricate the lock cylinder since it does not wash away or attract dirt. This dry lubricant can be found at most hardware stores. It is available in a squeeze bottle that lets you blow the powder directly into the lock. Insert your key, then move it forward and back to distribute the graphite throughout the lock.
Spray WD-40 directly onto the lock's cylinder. This will provide an instant rush of lubrication but it may be too strong for certain locks. If the cylinder is really stuck, try working your key into and out of the lock numerous times to spread the WD-40 over all the internal parts that need it.
Teflon-based lubricants are another option. These lubricants can withstand extreme temperatures and are extremely durable, which makes them a fantastic choice for a lock. They are also water-resistant, and can help prevent rust, which can affect other types lubricants.
If you find that your sliding patio door is a bit difficult to open or close, the problem may be caused by the locking mechanism not being aligned correctly with the frame. If you're unable solve the issue on your own, it's recommended to call in an expert locksmith. They will take a closer inspection of your lock to determine what's making it stiff or difficult to use, and they can also install new rollers and springs to make your patio door more functional. They'll even help you choose the right locks to replace the old ones with, if needed. You'll never have to worry over losing your keys or the possibility of damaged locks on your door.
Adjust the Rollers
A difficult time opening and closing a patio door could be caused by misaligned or faulty rollers, tracks or latches. The solution to a stuck door can be simple if one or more of the above problems are present. However If the issue continues to persist and you are feeling drafts or are seeing an increase in your cooling and heating bills, it could be time to consider replacing your doors.
The next step is to check the rollers. The rollers are an essential component in the sliding track of a door and if they're damaged or worn, they could cause the door to stick. To remove the rollers with a Phillips screwdriver, push them gently up by removing screw that holds them into the position.
You can easily take off the screws and replace the rollers if needed. Most patio door systems use steel wheels that can be rusty with time. Most newer doors have plastic wheels that last longer than the metal ones do. If your wheels have become rusted and worn-out, you'll need to replace all the rollers and tracks.
If the rollers are in good shape, you can often adjust the alignment using the adjustment screws at the bottom of the track (the screwdriver you used to remove them will work well). These screws adjust track tension or loosen it to ensure it is properly positioned. When you've got the adjustment correct, your door should be in full contact with the track, and there shouldn’t be any gaps.
After the adjustment, spray lubricant that contains silicone on the rollers and tracks. Apply a generous coat of lubricant and slide the door back and forth several times to spread it. After the lubricant is dry you should be capable of opening and closing your patio door without becoming stuck or making any noises. If you're having issues, call your Milgard dealer for assistance. Repair My Windows And Doors can guide you on how to replace the parts and help you find the problem.
Replace the Glass
Patio doors are a great option to fill your home with sunlight and stunning views of the outside. However, they can also be security-related as a broken window pane could easily allow intruders to break into your home. Replacement of the glass on these doors is important to keep them safe and in good working order.
It may seem impossible to replace a patio door's glass when the glass is broken. But, if you follow the right directions, replacing a window in your patio is actually very easy. The job can be completed without taking the patio door off its frame. To begin, take off the trim around the glass, also referred to as the mull. Use a putty knife to slide between the trim and the door, and then employ a small pry bar and hammer to ease the trim off. Be careful not to break or bend the trim, and make sure you wear gloves and long sleeves.
After removing the old glass, vacuum and sweep the area to remove any broken glass. Wipe the frame. If there are any cracks within the frame, duct tape them to strengthen it. Then, you can begin assembling the door. Before doing so, be certain to measure the exact dimensions (and thickness) of the original glass. This will help you ensure that the replacement glass is of the right size and thickness.
After reassembling the frame, apply a clear silicone caulk around the edges of the opening. This will prevent water or air from seeping into the gap and damaging the new glass. Once the caulk has dried then slide the new window into place. Then use the glazing points as a way to secure it. Once the glass is secured, replace the stops and then tack in the brad nails using a nail punch.
Patio doors do not only offer an amazing view, but they can improve the energy efficiency of your home by reducing the transfer of heat and cold from the inside to the outside. They can also provide an extra level of protection from storms and other elements that could damage your windows and create leaks.