Patio Door Repair - How to Keep Your Door in Good Shape
Patio doors are a wonderful feature for any home because they bridge the gap between indoors and outdoors. However, they are susceptible to wear and tear and require to be properly maintained.
(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Replacement-Doors-300x200.jpg)Damaged doors are not only an issue for security, but can also result in high energy bills because they allow cold air into the home.
Damaged Glass
Patio doors are an excellent way to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces. They can improve the appearance of your house and increase the efficiency of your home's energy usage. As time passes the sliding mechanisms can be affected by issues that affect their overall performance and functionality.
One of the most common issues homeowners encounter with their patio doors is cracked or broken glass. It can be caused by various reasons. It could be due to tracks that aren't aligned properly, cold draughts coming into the home or even if the door was set up incorrectly. If you're not sure about the cause of the issue, it's best to speak with an expert.
Windows that are damaged are not just a security risk, but also cause colder air to enter the home, water ingress, or make your home more attractive to criminals. It is also important to fix a damaged window as soon as you can, to avoid further damage.
If your patio door is shattered it is necessary to get in contact with a glazier to replace the glass. This is a quicker and less expensive option than replacing the whole door.
Glass panels for sliding patio doors are generally secured into the frame using glazing beads, which may become loose over time. They can also crack or break if they are exposed to extreme heat. You may be able do the work yourself, depending on the severity, however it is best to consult an expert to ensure an impeccable finish and secure installation.
Sliding Tracks
Over time, dirt, dust and even rust may build up on the tracks of your patio door. This can impede its smooth moving, so it's essential to keep the tracks clean. This can be accomplished using a brush and mild detergent. You can also use a degreaser remove more severe build-ups. If your door still doesn't slide smoothly, it could be that the track is bent or damaged.
This is usually caused by heavy doors or pets who drag dirt through the door. The cogs or spindles can break. This can result in the handle becoming stuck and making it difficult to open.
Another common cause of the sliding patio door's malfunctioning is the lack of lubrication. Preventing future problems can be accomplished by applying a silicone-based grease to the tracks and rollers. Make sure you thoroughly clean the track prior to applying lubricant. This will prevent it from accumulating more dirt.
Test the door after applying the lubricant by moving it both ways. Reapply the lubricant if it's not moving smoothly. You'll eventually be able get your sliding patio doors moving without needing a repair service.
You might need to take out your door to straighten the tracks in case they are bent. It's a large task, so you should have someone assist you. Begin by laying some cloth on the floor and dislodging the plugs that protect the screws for adjusting the roller. These screws are usually located at the corner of both sides of the frame. Once the screws have been removed, the track should be able to pull away from the wall. Utilize a rubber mallet as well as a block and rubber mallet if you find an area that is bent outward. The block of wood should be placed on the bent-outward part of track, and then use the mallet to straighten it. Repeat the process on opposite side of the track, if required. Once the tracks are straight, you'll be able to reinstall your door and attach any hardware that was removed.
Broken Rollers
If your patio door repairs London door is demanding much effort to open, and is sliding along the track or even getting caught on it, then you may require a new bottom roller. Like all moving parts, the bottom roller is going to wear out over time and if you leave it for too long, you'll notice that the door is really difficult to use. This could cause an excessive strain on other components like handles that could break, or the track, which could be broken.
Replacing the rollers can be an arduous task and requires removing the whole panel from the frame. First, you'll need to pull the roller wheels back. Then, give the panel a gentle tug to see if the panel will be able to come loose. If it does, you need someone else to help you remove the panel and then place it on the floor. After the panel is removed, it is time to examine it for indications of damage.
After you've completed that, you're now able working on the rollers themselves. You'll likely require the use of a screwdriver, a plier bar or a strong putty blade to take them off. After removing the old ones, make an outline of their design and size so that you can replace them with the same ones.
There may be no obvious damage, and the rollers just need lubricating. If this is the case, simply spray some silicone-based grease on the rollers and try sliding the panel once more.
In more serious instances, the bogies that sit beneath the rollers may fail or the tracks they roll on will break. In this case the entire track will require replacement. It's typically a two-person job as the panel needs to be removed from the frame made of aluminum so that the builder can take it away. This stage is usually the longest portion of the repair process and it is important to take care to avoid any cracks or broken glass.
Weather Treatment
Paul and his wife were sick of their old patio door letting drafts in when they were relaxing in the living room watching the TV or in their recliner. They also noticed icicles on their frame this winter. The couple spoke to our expert on products who informed them that their doors were in need of weather treatment. The door was old and had some corrosion due to age and British weather. However it could be fixed to enhance the look. They decided to proceed with the installation of the new patio door and window replacement in london treatments that would go with their home's decor.