Repairing Patio Doors
Patio doors can become difficult over time to open and close or latch. This can cause discomfort and security concerns for homeowners.
A professional door technician will evaluate the situation to determine whether the patio doors need to be repaired or replaced. There are a variety of ways homeowners can take to address the most common problems with patio doors.
French patio doors
French patio doors offer an amazing view of the outdoors and allow natural light to flood your home. Like any door, they can experience issues from time to time. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will prolong the lifespan of your door, regardless of whether it's because of a broken lock, a loose handle or if they are not aligned properly.
Traditionally, French doors are made of wood, which offers natural insulation properties and provides warmth to rooms. However, since wood is susceptible to swelling, warping and rot, it requires regular maintenance. Fiberglass is the most sought-after alternative to wood French doors. It is resistant against rot and has a foam-filled core that is energy-efficient. Fiberglass can also resist cold air and heat transfer better than wood.
In addition to their aesthetics and function, French doors add a feeling of security to your home. The large glass panels provide a view of your outdoor space, making it difficult for burglars to gain access to your home. To ensure your security and privacy, your French doors must be secured with proper locks and handles that are simple to operate.
If you're looking to increase the security to your French doors, consider installing a burglar alarm system. These alarms use motion detectors and wireless sensors to detect burglaries and alert you to suspicious activities. reliable patio door repair company can also buy a shatterproof glass film to shield your glass from intruders.
Over time over time, your French doors could become misaligned due to frequent use or changes in the foundation of your home. This could be due to worn or loose hinges and rollers that need to be tightened. A professional door technician can adjust the hinges and track for smooth operation.
Sliding patio doors
Patio sliding doors are an excellent method of transitioning from indoors to outside. They also allow for plenty of natural light into the home. However, with time, these doors may develop problems that range from becoming difficult to close and open as well as creaking or squeaking or letting air into the home. Identifying the specific source of the issue and carrying out timely repairs or maintenance can keep your patio door operating properly for long time to come.
If your sliding glass patio door is dragging or becoming difficult to move, it may be due to dirt and dust accumulation in the track, worn rollers or misalignment. Clean the track thoroughly with a sponge dampened with water and a scrub brush and then apply lubrication using the right product. We recommend using a silicone lubricant spray can, which will protect the track against corrosion. You can purchase these products at any hardware retailer.
A patio door may be difficult to close or open if the handle is loose or wobbly. It is usually a simple issue of tightening the screw that holds the handle in place or replacing it.
It is also essential to replace any damaged or worn weather strip around the sliding glass patio doors. Having the proper weather strip will increase energy efficiency and decrease noise, and it will also stop air leaks. To replace the weather strip, first remove the door, then raise the bottom-supported section of the frame straight up, and quickly incline it to lift the rollers off the track. Then, spread a dropcloth on the floor. Then, remove the plugs that cover the screws for adjusting the rollers. Turn the screw counterclockwise with a flathead driver until the rollers retract back into the track.
Sliding glass patio doors
Sliding glass patio doors allow homeowners to benefit from a myriad of benefits. They let in natural light and allow easy access to patios, backyards, and other outdoor areas. They also make homes more comfortable. They allow occupants to create an environment that is unique and suits their aesthetic and lifestyle. However, just like any other component of a house they are susceptible to being damaged or broken and need repair. Luckily, these kinds of repairs are relatively simple to complete and can save you money and time in the long time.
Many sliding door issues are caused by damaged or dirty tracks or rollers. Over time, dust, debris and even rust can build up on tracks and cause them to become stuck or difficult to move. An easy fix is to clean the tracks before using a silicone-based oil to loosen them. Be careful not to use grease, as it could create more dirt and cause further problems in the future.
A misaligned locking system is another common reason that sliding doors can be difficult to open or close. If your patio door locks are difficult to lock and unlock, or you find that they aren't aligned with the frame of the door, it's recommended to call a professional to inspect the hardware components and determine if an adjustment or replacement is needed.
If a sliding glass door starts to look dull and cloudy, it's possible that the insulated seal between the double-panes has been compromised. This is a problem that is caused by condensation. If you suspect it is the case, consult an expert.
Locks and handles
The handles and locks on patio doors play a crucial part in the functionality as well as security and aesthetics of your outdoor living space. Choose from a range of functional and innovative hardware for your patio doors, ranging from color-matched and upgraded finishes to multipoint locking systems.
Sometimes patio doors are difficult to open due the rollers running between the top and bottom within the runner are wearing out and are rubbing against the track. To avoid this, clean the track of your sliding door each time you vacuum and apply a thin lubricant at least once a year. Don't use WD40. ).
If you are experiencing trouble opening your patio doors, it could be time to replace the handle and lock. Remove the handle on the inside and locking mechanism and check for signs of wear. This could be a bent latch or loose handle, screw for the handle, etc. If the latch is damaged or bent, it may be time to replace your mortise lock.
Glass patio doors that slide open can also be difficult to lock. This is because the lock mechanism is fixed by a rod secured to the frame and operated by an operator. If the lock begins to loosen you can try tightening the rod or replacing it altogether with a new one.
Patio doors that slide open are an easy target for burglars because they allow a view of your home and are typically situated at the back of the property. Installing a door lock jambar and anti snap locks can ensure your family's safety.
Weatherstripping
The purpose of weatherstripping is preventing the entry of air and rain into your home and thereby saving energy on heating and cooling costs. It is a simple, do-it-yourself moisture test to discover which windows and doors need more seals. Wet your hands and run them along the edges of your window or door. If you feel cold air coming in, you'll require more weatherstripping.
Felt weatherstripping can be found at most hardware stores in rolls and is a bargain. It's available in reinforced or plain versions with a flexible metal strip. It is easy to install. It's less durable than other types, however, and might require replacement after two years.
Another option is foam tape, which is available in plain and reinforced varieties. It's also very easy to put in, but it is less durable than rubber weatherstripping and can become vulnerable to moist conditions over time.
Interlocking the weatherstripping with metal is a more durable option however, it requires the removal of threshold and should be left to professionals. It is made up of two V-shaped pieces of metal that lock together to create a tight seal on the door when it is closed.
You can find both rubber and vinyl weatherstripping in a wide range of colors, shapes and thicknesses. The choice between the vinyl and rubber weatherstripping is largely determined by budget and personal preference. Rubber is generally more durable than vinyl and it is more secure in conditions that are wet. Rubber is also an eco-friendly natural resource unlike vinyl, which is an oil-based product.