How to Repair Patio Doors
A sliding patio door can enhance the appearance of a house and provides comfort and energy efficiency. However, they require regular maintenance in order to function as intended.
Doing these simple tasks will extend the life of your doors, and also reduce costly repairs. In some instances the expertise of a professional might be required for more severe damage.
Clear the Tracks
If the sliding patio door gets stuck in its tracks, it can be difficult to open and close. This is usually an easy problem to fix. In the majority of cases, the door simply needs to be lubricated to allow it to move.
Regularly cleaning your sliding patio doors and tracks can reduce the accumulation of dirt, which can hinder track operation. It is important to sweep or brush 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 clean them clean and wash them thoroughly. You can scrub stubborn staining using a small toothbrush, but be careful not to scratch or damage the tracks. Be sure to get into all the crevices and nooks of the tracks and sill as well as corners and tight spaces.
After the sill and tracks have been cleaned, they should be cleaned with a lint free cloth and dried with paper towel. If you have white wine vinegar in your house you can use it to get rid of staining that is difficult to remove. To do this simply apply a small amount vinegar to an absorbent cloth and then rub the area where the stain is located. If the stains persist, you can try scrubbing them with a small brush or an old toothbrush, and then rinsing again.
Keep your sliding patio door tracks and doors clean to extend their life and increase their efficiency. It's a good idea to clean them with the same frequency like you would your windows. Be sure to check the weather strip that surrounds the patio doors frequently and replace it if worn or damaged. This is a crucial measure to cut down on the cost of energy while maintaining the comfort of your home. If you are experiencing drafts or an increase in your cooling or heating costs, it may be time to invest in new patio doors that have 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 extend the life of the lock itself because it won't be subject to unnecessary wear and tear. You can apply graphite lock grease or light machine oil. The right lubricant can aid in preventing the buildup of gunk that can cause the delicate pins within the lock to break.
Graphite powder is a great method to lubricate the lock cylinder because it doesn't sludge away or draw dirt. This dry lubricant can be found at most hardware stores. It is available in a squeeze bottle that lets you to blow the powder directly into the lock. Insert your key and then move it forward and back to distribute the graphite throughout the lock.
You can also spray WD-40 directly into the lock's the cylinder. This will provide an instant rush of lubrication but it may be too strong for some locks. If the cylinder is stuck it is possible to try moving the key in and out several times to distribute the WD-40 on all the internal parts.
Teflon based Lubricants made of Teflon can also be used. These lubricants are able to withstand high temperatures and are extremely durable, making them a great option for locking. They're also water resistant, so they'll help you avoid the rust that can sometimes affect other lubricants.
If patio doors repair near me notice that your sliding patio door is difficult to close or open it could be caused by the locking mechanism not being properly aligned with the frame. If you're unable fix the issue by yourself, it's best to seek out a professional locksmith. They'll examine your lock and determine what is causing it to be stiff and difficult to operate. They can also install new springs and rollers to improve the function of your patio door. If needed, they'll assist you in choosing the appropriate locks to replace those that are damaged. You'll never have to think over losing your keys or getting damaged locks on your door.
Adjust the Rollers
Misaligned rollers or tracks can cause patio doors to be difficult to open and close. The solution to stuck doors can be easy if one or more of the above problems are present. If the problem continues to persist, and you feel drafts, or see an increase in your cooling and heating costs, it may be time for you to change your doors.
The next thing to do is check the rollers. The rollers are a crucial component of a sliding track, and if they're damaged or worn they could cause the doors to slam. To remove the rollers, gently pry them up by taking out the screw that holds them in place with the aid of a Phillips head screwdriver.
You can easily take off the screws and replace the rollers if necessary. The wheels that are used in most patio door systems are usually made of steel and may get rusty over time. Most newer doors have plastic wheels that last longer than the metal ones do. If your wheels are worn out and rusty, you'll probably need to replace the entire set of rollers and track.
If your rollers work, you can usually correct the alignment using the adjustment screws at the bottom of the track. (The screwdriver you used to remove the rollers can also work). These adjustment screws tighten or loosen track to ensure it is properly positioned. When you've got the adjustment right, your door should be in full contact with the track, and there shouldn’t be any gaps.
After the adjustment has been completed, lubricate the rollers and track by using a silicone-based spray lubricant. Apply a large amount of lubricant to the rollers and track. Then, slide the door backwards and forwards several times to spread it. Once the lubricant is dry and you are able to open and shut your patio door with no issues. If you still have trouble then contact your Milgard window dealer for assistance. They can help you find the right replacement parts and guide you on how to install them.
Replace the Glass
Patio doors are a great option to provide your home with sunlight and breathtaking views of the outdoors. However, they can also be an issue for security because a damaged window can easily allow intruders to break into your home. It is essential to replace the glass on these doors to ensure they are in good working order and secure.
If your patio door glass has shattered, it may appear to be a difficult task to replace the glass. If you follow the correct instructions replacing a window on the patio door is very simple. The job can be completed without taking the patio door out of its frame. To begin, remove the trim around the glass, also known as the mull. Use a putty blade to slide between the trim and door and then use a small pry-bar and hammer. Wear gloves and long sleeves to avoid damaging the trim.
After the old glass has been removed Clean and sweep the area to remove any pieces of broken glass. After that, wipe clean the frame. Tape any cracks that appear on the frame to strengthen it. Then, you can start to reassemble the door. Make sure to take measurements of (and note the thickness) the original glass before you begin. This will ensure that you purchase and install the correct glass replacement.
After reassembling the frame, apply a clear silicone caulk over the opening. This will stop water or air from entering the gap, which could damage the new glass. After the caulk has dried and the glass is slid into place and then use the glazing points to secure it in place. After the glass is secured to the stop, replace them with brad nails and use nail tools to press them into.
Patio doors do not only offer stunning views, but they can improve the energy efficiency of your home by reducing the heat and cold transfer from the inside to the outside. They also offer an additional layer of protection against elements like storms and rain that could cause damage to your windows or cause leaks.