Patio Doors Repair - How to Fix a Wet Dog and Save Your Dog From Cold, Wet Feet
Patio doors provide a comfortable and comfortable transition between your home and outdoor space. By keeping the air inside your home, they will save you cash on cooling or heating costs.
Over time the luster of your sliding glass or French door will fade. Fortunately, simple repairs can keep them looking and operating as new.
Weatherstripping
You're walking your dog to the park around 5 AM when you step into a puddle close to your sliding patio door. You turn around and see that the rain of last night ripped through the patio door seals. Don't panic, this isn't going to be a five-minute project. With a little patience and a few tools you can fix the problem and save your dog's feet from becoming wet and cold.
It is important to replace the weatherstripping that closes the gap between your door and jamb. This 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 needs replacing.
There are a variety of weatherstripping, such as felt, open-cell foam and vinyl, thermoplastic rubber and metals such as bronze or copper. Each has its pros and drawbacks. Open cell foam and felt are inexpensive however they can be ineffective and visible at blocking airflow. Vinyl is more expensive, but it's durable and resistant to moisture. Rubber is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas since it won't deteriorate as quickly.
To install new weatherstripping, you must first remove the patio door from the frame by loosening the roller adjustment screws using a screwdriver. Then using a flathead screwdriver loosen the screws that hold the weatherstripping in place on the bottom of the frame. Remove the weatherstripping that was previously installed from the frame and clean any adhesive residue. Then, cut the replacement to the correct length, peel back the plastic strip on one side and then apply it to the jamb using a putty knife.
Reinstall the door, and adjust the roller screws to ensure it is properly seated in the track. Apply waterproof caulk where the stationary panel is positioned to block sliding doors and at the point where the edge of the panel joins the frame. This is not a more secure seal than weatherstripping, however it will last for a while.
Handles and locks
Patio door handles and locks play an important role in the security of your home. As time passes, they may get worn or damaged and need to be replaced. The spindle that connects the inside and exterior handles can also be replaced.
To replace the handle on the patio door, take out the old one first by unscrewing any screws holding it in place. After you have removed the old handle, you can use a level and make sure that the door is straight. If the door isn't straight, it could interfere with the lock and cause issues in the future.
After you have the new handle Close and open it several times to make sure it works effectively. If you encounter any issues ask the manufacturer or a professional in the field for assistance. To avoid problems in the future it is a good idea also to lubricate your lock mechanism with silicone-based lubricant.
The most common type of patio door lock is a mortise latch. It is usually made of steel and fits inside a pocket which has been cut into the door frame. These locks are typically used on sliding wood and aluminum doors. Before you purchase a new mortise lock it is important to measure. The measurements you require include the location of the mounting holes and the location of the keyway inside the lock.
Some patio door handles are equipped with the ability to lock the handle. These handles feature a rectangular key cylinder which is inserted into the handle's keyway. This type of patio door includes the exterior and inside locks in one unit. This kind of patio door is often found on sliding aluminum doors.
If the latch on your patio door isn't able to stay closed, the lock tongue may not be catching the hasp in the right way. Another possibility is that your sliding door isn't parallel to the jamb's side. Try opening the door up to 1 inch and then spotting it against the frame to see whether there is a gap between the door and the jamb. If there is a gap, you can adjust the rollers to the bottom left or right side of the patio so that it is perfectly parallel with jamb.
Misalignment
As time passes the tracks and rollers can lose their proper alignment. Repair My Windows And Doors could cause doors to become stuck or difficult to move. It can also allow cold air and draughts into your home, which can reduce energy efficiency. Misalignment can be easily fixed and prevented. Applying a silicone-based grease to the rollers and tracks will allow your doors to glide again. It's a good idea do this periodically to ensure that your doors are in peak operating condition.
A damaged screen could also be a problem. It could be a hassle or a danger. It could also stop the doors from opening and closing properly, causing energy loss. In some cases, the screen can be repaired, however in other instances, the door must be replaced. If you're experiencing a ripped screen, wash it thoroughly and make sure not to turn the handles of the door the wrong way when closing and opening.
Over time, hinges will loosen due to normal wear and tear or excessive usage. This can be fixed by tightening screws regularly. It's a simple task that you can perform yourself. If you're not confident, it is best to seek out a professional.
It's recommended to regularly clean your patio doors tracks and rollers. A simple brushing or vacuuming will get rid of dust and debris that could impede the smooth operation of your patio doors. You can also use an instrument specifically designed to clear away rust or dirt that has accumulated. The inspection and tightening of the screws on the hinges can aid in re-alignment but in some cases, it's best to replace them altogether to ensure a solid, durable seal.
The performance and alignment of your patio doors can be affected if the frames are warped or sliding. Shifting or warping can occur due to changes in the foundation of your home, but it could be caused by poor installation or simply due to frequent use. A professional can fix or replace the frame of your patio door and ensure it's aligned properly and functioning at its peak.
Rollers
The sliding patio doors can be an excellent way to let the outside in and let in plenty of light, however they require some maintenance to ensure that they're moving smoothly. If you find that you have to really pull the handle to get the door to move, or it simply doesn't move as smoothly as it did in the past it could be due to the rollers. In time the lower track may become clogged with dirt, sand, and mud. This makes it difficult for rollers to move. You can clean it up and spray it with a lubricant, such as 2Slick to determine if it 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. These can be purchased at many hardware stores, however you'll need a partner to assist you in the removal and installation of the rollers. Before you order replacements, make sure to take an accurate picture of the roller assembly installed in the door frame, so experts can identify the exact model and the type you require. They can also look for identifying characteristics such as bumps, dimples, flared edges and cut-outs that could narrow your the options for replacement.
After replacing the rollers you'll have to reinstall the sliding door 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 so you must ensure that they are loose enough for the door's bottom to drop into the channel that is above the frame. If there is a screen door, take it from the opening and ensure it's clear of the track and rollers.
After putting in the new rollers, gently place the door into the frame. Swing it down to ensure it is secured. If your new rollers are adjustable you can adjust them to give the door clearance in the areas it requires it.