Patio Doors Repair - How to Fix a Wet Dog and Save Your Dog From Cold, Wet Feet
Patio doors are a great option to connect your home to the outdoors. They provide a comfortable and easy transition. By keeping the air in your home, they could help you save cash on cooling or heating bills.
Over time the luster of your sliding glass or French door can fade. However, simple repairs can keep them looking and functioning as new.
Weatherstripping
You're walking your dog to the park at 5 am when you get in a puddle right close to your sliding patio door. You look around and see that the rain of last night blew in through the seals on your patio doors. This is not going to be a simple task. However, with a little patience and some tools to fix this, you can get it fixed and save your dog from wet, cold feet in the process.
It is crucial to replace the weatherstripping which seals off the gap between your door and jamb. This will keep out drafts, pests, and moisture. It also keeps your energy bills lower. A quick inspection of your windows and doors will show you whether the weatherstripping is in good condition or requires replacement.
There are many types of weatherstripping available that include open-cell and felt foam, thermoplastic rubber, as well as metals like bronze or copper. Each has its pros and disadvantages. Foam and open-cell foam are not expensive however, they are also known to be noticeable and ineffective at blocking airflow. Vinyl is more expensive however, it is durable and resists moisture. Rubber is a great option for areas with high traffic because it does not wear out as fast.
To install new weatherstripping, you must first remove the patio door from the frame by loosening the screws that adjust the rollers using the aid of a screwdriver. Then, using a flathead screwdriver unscrew the plugs that secure the weatherstripping at the bottom of the frame. Remove the old weatherstripping from the frame and remove any adhesive remnants. Then, cut the new to the proper length, then peel off the plastic strip at one end, and then apply it using a putty-blade to the jamb.
After that, you can reinstall the door and adjust the roller screws to ensure that the door sits in the track and shuts properly. Then, apply www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk to the place that the stationary panel passes through the sliding door, and where the edge of the stationary panel meets the frame. This is a less secure seal than the weatherstripping, however, it will last for a while.
Locks and handles
Locks and handles for patio doors are essential to ensure the security of your home. Over time, they can get damaged or worn out and require replacement. The spindle that connects the interior handles and the exterior handles may also be replaced.
To replace a handle for a patio door first, remove the old handle by removing any screws that hold it in place. After the handle has been removed, use a level to ensure that the patio door is straight prior to installing the new handle. If the door isn't straight, it could cause problems for the lock. This could cause problems in the future.
Close and open the handle several times after installing it to ensure that it is working properly. If you have any problems, consult the manufacturer or a specialist in hardware for assistance. It's recommended to grease the lock mechanism using a silicone-based lubricant in order to prevent future problems.
The most common type of patio door lock is a mortise lock. It is typically made of metal and sits in a pocket that has been cut into the frame of the door. These locks are commonly used on sliding doors made of aluminum and wood. Before ordering a replacement mortise lock, you need to measure. The measurements you need to take include the location of the mounting holes and the position of the keyway inside the lock.
Certain patio door handles come with a locking mechanism built into the handle. The handles have an elongated key cylinder that is inserted into the handle's keyway. If you have this kind of patio door, the inside and outside locks are combined into one unit. This kind of patio door is most often found on aluminum sliding doors.
If the latch on your patio door doesn't stay latched, the lock tongue may not be catching the hasp in the right way. Another possibility is that your sliding door isn't aligned to the jamb's side. Try opening the door for about an inch and spotting it against the frame to determine whether there is any gap between the door and the jamb. If there is, adjust the rollers on the left or right sides of the patio door until you can get it perfectly parallel with the jamb.
Misalignment
As time passes over time, the tracks and rollers of the door can lose their alignment. This could cause the door to become stuck or become difficult to move. It also allows cold air and draughts to enter your home, which can reduce the efficiency of your home's energy usage. It is possible to correct the misalignment and prevented. Applying a silicone-based oil to the rollers and tracks will allow your doors to glide again. This is a good option if you want to keep your doors operating at their top performance.
Another common issue with patio doors is a torn screen, which can be an inconvenience or even a safety risk. In addition, it can hinder the doors from opening and closing properly, which can lead to loss of energy. In some instances, the screen can be repaired, but in other cases the door must be replaced. If you have a torn window screen, make sure to clean it thoroughly. Don't also turn the handles of the door in the wrong way.
Hinges can become looser over time due to heavy use or normal wear. This can be fixed by regularly tightening screws. It's an easy task you can tackle on your own. If you're not confident with the task, you should seek out an expert.
It is also recommended to clean the tracks and rollers of your patio doors regularly. Simple brushing or vacuuming will take away dust and other debris that can hinder the smooth operation your patio doors. You can also use a specific tool to clean away rust or dirt that has accumulated. It is possible to correct the misalignment by tightening or checking the screws. But, at times, it is necessary to replace the hinges to ensure a durable seal.
The alignment and performance of your patio doors may be affected if the frames are warped or sagging. The warping or shifting may occur due to changes in the foundation of your home, but could also be caused by poor installation or simply due to frequent use. A professional can replace or repair your patio door frame and make sure it is properly aligned. This will allow it to function at its best.
Rollers
Patio doors that slide open are ideal to let the outside in and letting plenty of natural light, however they do require a bit of maintenance to ensure they are sliding smoothly. If you find that you need to push the handle to get your door to move, or just doesn't slide as easily as it used to, the culprit may be the rollers. Over time the lower track could be clogged with dirt, dust, and mud. This makes it difficult for rollers to move. You can try cleaning it by spraying it with a lubricant such as 2Slick.
If the tracks have been cleaned, but the rollers aren't moving freely, then it is time to replace them. Replacement rollers are available for your door and track type. They can be found at many hardware stores, however you'll need a friend 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 that is installed in the door frame, so the experts can identify the specific model and type you need. They can also search for identifying characteristics such as dimples, bumps, flared edges and cut-outs that can narrow down replacement options.
After replacing the rollers, you will need to reinstall the sliding door into its frame. This is a very heavy door, and you might need some help. Make sure there are screws securing the track on either side of frame. If they are, make sure they are loose enough to allow the bottom of door to fall into the channel above the frame. If you have a screen door, remove it from the opening and make sure it's clear of the track and rollers.
Once the new rollers have been installed then carefully insert the door into the frame and then swing it down into place. If your rollers are adjustable, you can adjust them so that the door is able to be opened.
