Patio Doors Repair - How to Fix a Wet Dog and Save Your Dog From Cold, Wet Feet
Patio doors can provide a convenient and comfortable transition between your indoor and outdoor space. They can also help you save money on heating and cooling costs by keeping the air inside your home.
But with time your sliding glass or French doors could lose their appeal. However, simple repairs can keep them looking and working like new.
Weatherstripping
It's 5 am and you're taking your dog out for his morning constitutional when you step into the puddle of water by your sliding patio doors. You look around and realize that the rain of last night has blown through the seals of your patio doors. This won't be an easy task. With a bit of patience and a few tools to fix the issue, you'll be able to do it and keep your dog safe from cold, wet feet.
The key is to replace the weatherstripping, which seals the gap between your door and jamb, preventing the entry of pests, drafts and moisture. It also helps keep your energy bills lower. A quick inspection of your windows and doors will let you know whether the weatherstripping is in good shape or needs replacement.
There are a variety of weatherstripping to choose from, including felt and open-cell foam, vinyl and thermoplastic rubber, and metals such as copper or bronze. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Felt and open-cell foam are both inexpensive, but they also tend to be visible and ineffective at blocking airflow. Vinyl is more expensive, but it's durable and resists moisture. Rubber is a good option for areas with heavy traffic since it will not wear out as fast.
To install new weatherstripping you must first remove the doors from the frame using a screwdriver to loosen the roller adjustment screws. Then, with a flathead screwdriver, loosen the plugs that secure the weatherstripping at the bottom of the frame. Then, take out the weatherstripping that was previously in place and scrape any adhesive from the bottom of the frame. Then, cut the new to the appropriate length, peel off the plastic strip at one end, and then apply it with a putty knife to the jamb.
Reinstall the door, and then adjust the roller screws to ensure that 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 is the frame. This is not as secure a seal than the weatherstripping however, it will last for a time.
door repair london and handles
Locks and handles for patio doors are essential to the security of your home. Over time, they can get damaged or worn out and require replacement. The spindle connecting the interior and exterior handles could also require replacement.
To replace a handle on a patio door, you must remove the old one first, unscrewing any screws holding it in the place. Once the old handle is removed, use a level to make sure the patio door is straight before installing the new handle. If the door isn't straight it could hinder the lock and cause issues in the future.
Close and open the handle a few times after installing it to ensure that it's functioning properly. If you encounter any issues, consult the manufacturer's instructions or a hardware expert for assistance. It is recommended to lubricate the lock mechanism by using a silicone-based oil to avoid any future issues.
The most popular door lock for patio doors is a mortise latch. It's typically constructed of steel and is placed in a pocket that is cut into the door frame. These types of locks are typically used on aluminum and wood sliding doors. Before ordering a replacement mortise lock, it is essential to take some measurements. The measurements you need include the locations of the mounting holes as well as the position of the keyway inside the lock.
Certain patio door handles come with a built-in locking mechanism that's integrated into the handle. These handles feature an elongated key cylinder that fits into the handle's keyway. If you have this kind of patio door both the outside and inside locks are combined into one. This kind of patio door is commonly found on aluminum sliding doors.
If the latch on your patio door isn't able to stay closed it could be because the lock tongue may not be catching the hasp correctly. Another possibility is that the sliding door isn't parallel to the jamb's side. The door should be opened by about an inch, then place it against the frame. This will reveal the gap between the jamb and the door. If there is a gap, reposition the rollers at the bottom left or the right of the patio so that it is perfectly parallel with jamb.
Misalignment
Over time, the door's tracks and rollers may lose their proper alignment. This could cause the door to stick or become difficult to move. It also allows cold air and drafts to enter your home, which could decrease energy efficiency. Misalignment can be easily fixed and prevented. Applying a silicone-based lubricant to the rollers and tracks will allow your doors to move smoothly once more. It's a good idea regularly do this to ensure your doors are in peak operating condition.
Another common problem with patio doors is a ripped screen, which is a nuisance or even a safety risk. In addition, it may prevent the doors from closing and opening properly, which can lead to loss of energy. In some cases the damaged screen can be replaced however, in some cases it's necessary to replace the entire door. If you're experiencing a torn screen, make sure you clean it thoroughly and make sure not to turn the handles of the door the wrong way when you open and close the door.
Over time, hinges can loosen due to wear and tear or heavy usage. This can be corrected by regularly tightening screws. This is a simple task that you can do yourself, but if not sure about it, consult an expert to make sure your doors are securely aligned and secure.
You should also clean the tracks and rollers of your patio doors regularly. Simple brushing or vacuuming will take away dust and other debris that could hinder the smooth operation your patio doors. You can also employ a special tool to clear away stubborn dirt or rust. It is possible to fix misalignment by tightening or inspecting the screws. Sometimes, it is necessary to replace the hinges in order to ensure a durable seal.
If your frames for your patio doors are warped or sagging it can affect their alignment and performance. The warping or shifting may occur due to changes in the foundation of your home, but can be caused by poor installation or simply through frequent use. A professional can repair or replace your patio door frame and ensure that it is properly aligned, allowing it to perform at its best.
Rollers
Patio doors that slide open are ideal for bringing the outside in and letting ample natural light, but they do require some attention to ensure they slide smoothly. If you have to yank the handle hard to get the door to move, or it doesn't move as smoothly as it used to it could be due to the rollers. Over time, the lower track can become clogged with dirt, dust, and mud. This makes it difficult for rollers to move. It is possible to clean it and spraying it with a lubricant like 2Slick.
If the tracks have been cleaned but the rollers aren't moving freely, then it's time to replace them. Replacement rollers are available for your door and track. They can be found at most hardware stores, but you'll need a partner to help with the removal and installation of the rollers. Before you purchase replacements, take an image of the roller assembly installed within the door frame so that experts can determine the specific model and type you require. You can also look for identifying characteristics such as bumps, dimples, flared edges, and cut-outs that can narrow down alternatives for replacement.
After replacing the rollers, you'll have to reinstall the sliding door in its frame. It's a heavy door, so you may require assistance. Check to see if there are screws securing the track on either side of the frame. If they are you must ensure that they are loose enough to allow the bottom of door to drop into the channel above the frame. Remove the screen door from the opening. Make sure it's free of the track rollers, track and track.
Once the new rollers are installed then carefully insert the door into the frame and then swing it back into position. If your rollers are adjustable you can adjust them to ensure that the door has enough clearance.