10 Things We All Hate About Repairing Patio Doors
Repairing Patio Doors
Over time, patio doors become difficult to close, open or latch. This can make homeowners be uncomfortable and have security concerns.
A professional door repair technician can evaluate the situation and determine if it's worth repairing or replacing the patio doors. There are a variety of steps a homeowner can take to address common patio door problems.
French patio doors
French patio doors offer an amazing view of the outdoors and let natural light to flood into your home. However, just like any other door, they may encounter issues from time to time. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will extend the lifespan of your door, regardless of whether it's due to a broken lock, a loose handle or are misaligned.
French doors are traditionally made from wood. The wood has natural insulation properties and adds warmth. However, since wood is susceptible to swelling, warping, and rotting, it requires regular maintenance. Fiberglass is the most well-known alternative to wood French doors. It is resistant against mold and has a foam-filled center that is energy-efficient. Fiberglass also resists cold air and heat transfer better than wood.
In addition to their aesthetics and practicality, French doors add a sense of security to your home. The large glass panels let you view your outdoor space and make it difficult for burglars. French doors secured with locks and handles should be simple to operate. This will ensure security and privacy.
Installing an alarm system for burglars on your French doors can give you extra security. These systems use motion sensors and wireless sensors to detect break-ins and alert you to suspicious activity. You can also purchase a shatterproof film to protect your glass from damage and protect it from intruders.
Your French doors can become dislocated over time due to frequent use or changes in your home's foundation. This can be caused by loose or worn rollers and hinges, which need to be tightened or replaced. A trained technician for door repair can adjust your track and hinges to ensure smooth operation.
Sliding patio doors
Patio sliding doors are a fantastic method of transitioning from indoors to outdoors. They also allow for plenty of natural light into the home. However, over time, these doors may develop problems in the form of becoming difficult to open and close, squeaking or creaking, or letting air into the home. If you identify the source of the issue, and make timely maintenance or repairs, your patio door will work properly for many years.
If your sliding glass patio door is sliding or is becoming difficult to move, it could be due to dirt and debris accumulation on the track, worn rollers, or misalignment. After cleaning the track using a wet sponge and scrubber, lubricate it using the correct product. We recommend using a spray bottle of silicone lubricant. It can also help protect the track from corrosion. You can purchase these products at any hardware store.
Another issue that is common is that a patio door may become difficult to open and close because the handle being wobbly or loose. Often, this is simply an issue of tightening or replacing the loose screw that is holding the handle in place.
Lastly, it's important to check and replace the weather strip on your sliding glass patio door in the event that it's damaged or cracked. The right weather strip can improve energy efficiency and reduce noise, and also stop air leaks. To replace the weather strip, first take off the door, then raise the bottom supported section of the frame straight up and carefully angle it to lift the rollers from the track. Then, place a dropcloth on the floor and remove the plugs that protect the screws that adjust the rollers. Turn the screw counterclockwise using a flathead driver until the rollers retract back into the track.
Sliding glass patio doors

Sliding patio doors offer homeowners numerous benefits. They allow in natural light and allow easy access to patios, backyards, and other outdoor areas. They also make homes more comfortable. They allow occupants to create a space that is unique and reflects their personal style and lifestyle preferences. However, as with any other part of a home, they can be damaged or broken and need repair. Fortunately, these repairs are relatively simple to carry out and could save you money and time in the long time.
Most often, problems with sliding doors are caused by dirty or damaged tracks or rollers. Over time, dust and dirt and even rust can accumulate on the tracks, which can cause them to become difficult to move or stuck. An easy fix is cleaning the tracks and using a silicone-based oil to loosen them. Avoid using grease since it can attract more dirt and cause further problems.
Another reason sliding doors might become more difficult to open and close is due to a misaligned locking mechanism. If your patio door locks have become hard to lock and unlock or you notice that they're not aligned with the frame of the door it's recommended to consult a professional for a thorough inspection of the hardware components and determine whether an adjustment or replacement is required.
If the sliding glass door begins to appear dull and cloudy, it's possible that the insulated seal between the double-panes has been compromised. This issue is caused by condensation. If you suspect this you should consult an expert.
Handles and locks
The handles and locks of patio doors are vital to the design, aesthetics and security of your outdoor living space. Pick from a range of functional and innovative patio door hardware. From finishes that match color and are upgraded to multipoint locking system, there are a variety of choices.
Sometimes, patio doors become hard to open because the rollers that run between the top and bottom within the runner are wearing down and are rubbing against the track. The best way to avoid this from happening is to clean the tracks of your sliding doors each time you vacuum, and apply a thin oil one time every year (do not use WD40! ).
If you have trouble opening your patio door, it may be time to replace both the lock and handle. To determine if patio doors repairs RepairMyWindowsAndDoors is the case, remove the handle and lock from inside and look for indications of wear, such as a bent latch or loose handle and screw. If the latch is damaged or bent it's likely time to replace the mortise lock and handle.
Glass patio doors that slide open are also difficult to lock. This is because the mechanism that locks them is held in place by a rod that is secured to the frame and is operated by the handle. If the lock becomes loose you can tighten the rod or replace it with a an entirely new one.
The sliding glass patio doors are an easy target for burglars because they allow a view of your home and are typically situated in the rear of the property. To ensure your family's safety it is essential to install a door jam bar and anti snap locks to ensure that the patio doors aren't easily opened by burglars.
Weatherstripping
The purpose of weatherstripping is preventing air and rain from getting into your home, and to save energy in cooling and heating costs. You can conduct a simple test of moisture on your own to determine where you need more seals. Wet your hands and then run them along the edges of your window or door. If you feel cold air coming in, you'll require more weatherstripping.
Most hardware stores sell weatherstripping in rolls. It is a bargain. It can be plain or reinforced with a flexible metal strip that is easy to install. It is less durable than other types and may need to be replaced in two years.
Another option is foam tape, that is available in plain and reinforced versions. It is also easy to install, however it is less durable than rubber and can become susceptible to moist conditions with time.
A more permanent option is interlocking metal weatherstripping, which requires the removal of the threshold and should be left to the professionals. It has two V-shaped pieces of steel that interlock and form an enveloping seal when the door is closed.
There are weatherstripping made of vinyl and rubber in a variety of colors, shapes and thicknesses. The decision between vinyl and rubber weatherstripping is mostly determined by your budget and personal preference. In general rubber is more durable than vinyl and provides better sealing in wet conditions. It also uses the natural, renewable resources, while vinyl is a petroleum-based product.