Patio Sliding Doors Repair
Patio sliding doors are subjected to a lot of abuse from pet hair, toys, and dust. They also endure seasonal temperature extremes as well as blown-in debris. Regular cleaning and lubrication will keep your doors working properly.
Replacing a sliding door costs more than repair but it's a possibility to consider if the damage to your door stops it from providing security and energy efficiency.
Tracks that are dirty or damaged Tracks
Doors that slide can be convenient and functional but over time, the tracks or rollers could get blocked by pollen, dirt and dust. This can make it difficult to open the door. If you're experiencing this issue clean the tracks and relubricating them with silicone spray or another lubricant to fix the problem. This simple DIY will save you money in the long-term on repair and replacement costs.
Begin by cleaning or sweeping the track and sill, making sure you reach into corners and narrow spaces. Scrub the track using a brush and mild detergent, such as dishwashing soap. After you're done, wash the sill and track with clean water to ensure there's no soap residue.
Then spray a non-abrasive household cleaner onto the track, then wipe it off with a clean cloth. You can also use equal parts of water and vinegar to clean your sliding door tracks.
Avoid using WD-40 on your sliding door tracks. It can exacerbate the problem by adding more grease. Instead, use a degreaser that's made specifically for cleaning at home (like this one) to avoid causing damage.
After cleaning your track, allow it to dry completely before applying lubrication again. Many people don't think of this essential step, but it is vital to keep your sliding door in great condition.
If you want to go all-out You can also loosen the screws that hold the track and reposition it in the case that it has become misaligned or is hanging loose from the frame. Be careful not to overdo it however, as this can cause further damage and could lead to the need for professional repairs or replacement. It can be a time-consuming and costly hassle to resolve these issues and it is recommended to tackle minor issues before they become serious. You can then enjoy your patio sliding door for as long and as often as you want without worrying about the constant or periodic issues.
Rollers that are not aligned
The rollers are the part of your sliding door that help it to slide along its track. When they are out of alignment, the door will become difficult to open or close and stick. Misalignments are typically caused by the use of the door in a regular manner. To avoid the door becoming stuck, it is crucial to examine and adjust it frequently. If you have noticed that your door is stuck the first thing to do is clean the track and rollers. To do this, remove the door from the frame and locate the screws for adjustment of the rollers. These are usually located at the bottom of doors. Using a screwdriver, loosen the screws, then pull out the rollers. Clean the rollers using ruby alcohol. This will eliminate all dirt, allowing the rollers to rotate again. After the rollers are cleaned and dried, they can be put back in their original position.
Alignment of the new rollers is crucial after the door has been reinstalled in the frame. You can make any adjustments that are needed if the door slides smoothly and easily. If you are still experiencing issues with your door it could be an indication of other issues that need to addressed. A patio door specialist can assist you in identifying the issue.
Many people believe that oiling the track is the solution when their doors get stuck. The problem is not the track. It's the worn or damaged bearings that cause the door to slide crookedly. A professional can replace the worn-out rollers with new ones and have your sliding door running as new in no time.
A damaged or loose frame is another issue that can make it difficult to open or close your sliding door. This is harder to detect than a filthy track or damaged rollers. A professional will be able to repair this for you by strengthening the frame or replacing it completely.
Lack of Lubrication
Over time, wear and tear on patio doors can lead to issues like misaligned or stuck rollers. Cleaning and lubricating the track regularly is a simple way to avoid these issues from happening, and can help your door last for many years.
The sliding door is difficult to open or shut. This is usually caused by dirty, rusted track rollers that are no longer able to move freely. This can be easily fixed by thoroughly cleaning the tracks using water and soap, then rubbing them using a dry rag or towel to remove any dust. Apply a generous amount grease on the rollers and track to ensure smooth movement.
However, it is essential to choose a lubricant which is appropriate for the vehicle you are using it on. Avoid grease or oil-based lubricants that cause tracks to become sticky and attract dirt, which can block the track. Use a graphite-based or silicone spray lubricant instead to ensure smooth movement.
If your door is stuck, even after you've cleaned the track and lubricated it, the problem could be with the locking mechanism. You can fix it by re-aligning your door, altering the locking mechanism or latch and lubricating it so that the lock engages correctly and smoothly.
Air leaks or drafts around the frame of the sliding door could also affect its performance. This is due to damaged or worn weatherstripping that allows air to enter the frame. The problem can be solved by replacing the weatherstripping, or by putting in additional weather-sealing material.
If you're not aware of the procedure, removing the sliding door from its track and lubricating it can be a daunting task. If you're unsure whether you are able to perform this task in a safe manner, or are worried about using the wrong kind of lubricant, call Glass Doctor today to have your patio doors checked and maintained by a professional. They have all the tools and know-how to repair any patio door. DIY patio door repair can also supply the correct lubricants for your track material.
Warped Glass
Sliding patio doors are beautiful and functional addition to any home, but they do require some care in time. If your sliding patio doors begin to appear to be worn out, you should fix the problem as soon as possible. The sliding door may become unsafe and inefficient.
If you're having trouble opening or closing your patio doors, it could be time to replace the tracks and rollers. This issue is usually caused by dirt, rust and misalignment. These issues can be easily corrected with regular cleaning and lubrication.
As time passes the wood and vinyl frames surrounding the sliding glass doors may warp due to exposure to rain, sunlight and snow. This can cause air leaks and drafts, increasing your energy bills. Additionally, it can also make it easier for critters and pests to get into your home.
If you notice condensation between the glass panes on your sliding patio door, it could be a sign that the seal has been damaged. This can also impact your door's insulation and visibility, and should be addressed as soon as possible.
Cracks and dents are a frequent issue with sliding glass patio doors. These are often caused by repeated usage, weather, or even age. A damaged or dented door could impact the appearance and value of your home, as well as decrease the privacy and security that it provides.
It's important to keep in mind that replacing the glass in your sliding doors is a delicate task. The best glass will provide the best quality of durability and security, while also preserving the aesthetics of your home. It is essential to consult an expert to ensure that the replacement is done properly.
Sliding glass door can be an attractive and convenient addition to any house. However, they have certain unique issues that other doors do not. By performing regular maintenance, you can be sure that your patio door stays in good condition for years to be. If your sliding door requires repair or replacement, contact Alderfer Glass for expert assistance in Coopersburg and the surrounding areas!