Patio Door Repair - Simple and Inexpensive
Patio doors allow easy access to your backyard, and also provide an appealing touch to the exterior of your home. They may have issues like misalignment, defective locks and handles as well as foggy glasses or drafts which can compromise your comfort.
Repairing many of these problems is simple and requires only just a few steps. Here are some common patio door repair tips that will help you save time and money:
Damaged Rollers
If your sliding glass door is difficult to open or makes a loud screeching sound when it moves, don't panic. You can fix the problem in a straightforward, affordable way. Remove the rollers by unscrewing and removing the bracket holding them. Bring patio door lock repair to your local hardware store and purchase a new set. You will likely need both top and bottom roller. However, always check with the manufacturer to determine the correct amount.
Before installing the new rollers, spray them down with a small amount of WD-40 and let them soak for several minutes to loosen them up. If needed you can put a flat-head screwdriver into the roller between it and the bracket to lift it off. It is better to hire a machine shop to repair the damaged roller. The damaged roller may need to be welded up again or its point surface re-machined flat. Both of these can be repaired easily. Rollers can be damaged due to rough handling during installation or transportation.
Warped Glass
Patio doors are large door that can slide or swing open, giving easy access to the outdoor space. They usually consist of a large amount of glass to let in plenty of light and allow for unobstructed viewing. They are constructed with uPVC frames or aluminium frames and are designed for durability, strength and safety.
Damage to the seals, frame, and insulation of a patio doors can not only affect the look of a house, but also affect its functionality and energy efficiency. Replacing damaged or outdated patio doors with more energy efficient models can help reduce household expenses and increase the indoor environment.
When you glue in place or working with separate glass panels the procedure is the same when repair of warped glass. The crucial thing to remember is to use a two-part epoxy that includes both hardener and resin inside a double-cylinder syringe. This lets you regulate the flow of each component and make sure you are using the right proportion.
Dirty Tracks
The tracks of your sliding patio door can be covered with a lot of dirt, sand, and other debris over time and make them difficult to slide. This is often exacerbated by dust, pet hair and lint that get stuck on the track as you open and close the door. Fortunately, it's not required to spend a lot of money on repairs or replacements to get your sliding door working properly once more. Cleaning and lubrication may be all you need to get your patio door functioning again.
Vacuuming tracks is the first step in fixing a sticky sliding door. A small vacuum attachment is the most efficient way to do this, but you can also make use of a brush. Make a cleaning solution using baking soda and vinegar. This is a popular way to clean up, and a great opportunity to involve your children in the process.
It is recommended to begin by using the brush and cleaning solution on a small portion of the track. You don't want to damage the delicate track system so it's crucial not to go overboard with the scrubbing. If the tracks are particularly dirty, you can sprinkle more baking soda and vinegar on the areas most soiled. Let the solution bubble for around 10 minutes, then scrub it off using a toothbrush. You can also scrub the grooves and corners of the track, however you should be gentle to avoid scratching the glass of your patio door.
If your track is clean, you can apply a silicone-based lubricant on it. You'll need to test it again by sliding the door forward and back over it. This will allow you to find any areas of concern and fix them if needed, for example loose bolt or screw that holds the handle in place.
It's easy to make your sliding patio door open and close smoothly especially if it is going to enhance the efficiency of your home. A few easy fixes, like replacing the weather stripping, or relubricating the track, can go a long way in making your sliding patio door more practical and enjoyable to use.