Patio Sliding Doors Repair
Patio sliding doors are exposed to lots of abuse from pets, toys and dust. They also face the extreme temperatures of the season and blow-in debris. Your doors will function optimally by cleaning them regularly and lubricate them.
Replacing a sliding doors costs more than repair however it's an option to look into when the damage to your door prevents it from ensuring security and energy efficiency.
Dirty or damaged tracks
Sliding doors are convenient and functional, but the track or rollers may get gunked up with dust, dirt, and pollen over time, making the door difficult to open. If you're experiencing this issue, try cleaning the tracks and relubricating them with silicone spray or a different lubricant to resolve the issue. This simple DIY will save you money over the long run on repair and replacement costs.
Start by cleaning the track or sweeping it, being sure to reach into corners and tight spaces. Make use of a brush and mild soap such as dishwashing liquid to scrub the dirt and grime out of the track. After cleaning the tracks, wash them with clean water.
Spray a non-abrasive cleaner over the track, and wipe it clean with a cloth. You can also make an equal amount of water and vinegar to give your sliding door tracks a more thorough clean.
Be wary of using WD-40 to clean your sliding door tracks because it can exacerbate the issues you're trying solve by adding more grease and dirt to the track. Select a degreaser designed for use at home, such as this one, to avoid damaging the tracks of your sliding doors.
After cleaning your track, let it to completely dry before applying lubrication again. This is a simple step that many people fail to do, but it's crucial to keeping your sliding door in good condition.
If you're feeling particularly thorough, you can loosen the screws that hold the track in place, and then reposition it if it's unbalanced. You should not overdo this however, as it could cause further damage, and you could need to hire an expert to fix or replace the track. This can be a costly and time-consuming headache to manage, so it's always recommended to identify issues early on by addressing minor issues before they escalate into major ones. This way, you'll be able to enjoy your patio sliding doors for as long as you can without having to worry about frequent or even periodic problems.
Rollers that are not aligned
The rollers of your sliding door are the components that allow it to slide along the track. If they are out of alignment, the door can become difficult to open or close and stick. These misalignments are usually caused by everyday use. It is important to check and adjust the door as required to avoid becoming sticky. If you've noticed your door is sticking, the first thing to do is clean the rollers and track. To accomplish this, you'll need to remove the door and frame from the frame. Then, locate the screw that adjusts the roller. They are usually located on the side of the door. With a screwdriver, loosen up the screws, then pull the rollers out. The rollers can be cleaned using ruby alcohol. This will get rid of any dirt and allow the rollers to spin again. Once the rollers have been cleaned they can be reinstalled in place.
The alignment of the new rollers is essential after the door has been installed in the frame. If the door slides easily and smoothly it is now possible to make any further adjustments that are necessary. If your door is still having issues, it may be an indication that there are other issues that require attention. A specialist for patio doors can help you identify the problem.
Many people think that oiling the track is the answer when their doors become stuck. However, the issue isn't the track itself, it's usually the bearings that are worn or damaged and causing the door to move unevenly or to move with friction. A professional can replace the old rollers with new ones and have your sliding doors moving as new in no time.
A damaged or loose frame is a common issue that can make it difficult to open or close your sliding door. This is often harder to identify than a damaged or dirty track or rollers. A professional will be able to fix this for you by either tightening the frame or replacing it completely.
Lack of Lubrication
Over time, the normal wear and tear on patio doors can cause problems like stuck or misaligned rollers. Cleaning and lubricating the track on a regular basis is a good method to prevent these issues from happening, and can help your door last for a long time.
One of the most common issues with sliding doors is that they can be difficult to open or close. This is usually due to dirty, rusted rollers that have lost their ability to move freely on the track. This can be easily corrected by thoroughly washing the tracks with water and soap, then rubbing them with a dry rag towel to remove any dust. Apply a generous amount lubricant on the rollers and track for smooth movement.
It is crucial to select a lubricant that is appropriate for the vehicle you are using it on. Avoid grease or oil-based lubricants that can cause tracks to become sticky and attract dirt, which can block the track. Instead, opt for a graphite or silicone spray lubricant for smooth movement.
If your door is stuck, even after you've cleaned the track and lubricated it, the problem could be related to the locking mechanism. This can be corrected by re-aligning your door by changing the locking mechanism, or latch, and lubricating the lock to ensure that it engages correctly and smoothly.
Drafts or air leaks around the frame of the sliding door could also affect the performance of the door. This is usually caused by worn or damaged weatherstripping that allows air seep in, which can be fixed by replacing the weatherstripping, or adding additional weather-sealing materials.
If you're unfamiliar with the procedure removal of the sliding door from the track and lubricating it can be a challenging task. Contact Glass Doctor to have your patio door inspected and serviced today by a professional if aren't sure whether you are able to do it safely or unsure if you are using the correct lubricant. They have the knowledge and tools necessary to service any type of patio door. They can supply all the necessary lubricants required for your specific track material.
Warped Glass
The sliding patio doors are stunning and practical elements to any home. However, they need some maintenance. If your sliding patio door starts to begin to show signs of wear it is crucial to take care of these issues as soon as possible. In patio door repairs that it doesn't, your sliding door could become unsafe and inefficient.
If you are having difficulty opening or closing your patio doors, it might be time to replace the rollers and tracks. This issue is usually caused by dirt, rust and misalignment. These problems are easily fixed by regular cleaning and lubrication.
As time passes the wood and vinyl frames that support your sliding glass doors can warp due to exposure to sunlight, rain and snow. This can lead to drafts and air leaks that increase your energy costs. It can also make it easier for pests and other critters in your home.
If you notice condensation between the glass panes of your sliding patio door this could indicate that the seal has been damaged. This can also impact the insulation of your door as well as its visibility, so it should be addressed as soon as possible.
Dents and cracks are another common issue with sliding glass patio doors. They can be caused by repeated use, weather and even the aging process. Damaged or dented door can impact the appearance and value of your home, and decrease the privacy and security it offers.
It is important to keep in mind that replacing the glass on your sliding door can be a delicate process. The best glass will provide the best quality of durability and safety, while preserving the aesthetics of your home. It's important to consult an expert to ensure that the replacement is done properly.
Sliding glass doors can be an stylish and a practical addition to any house. However, they have some unique challenges that other doors do not. You can keep your patio door in good condition for many years by performing regular maintenance. If your sliding door needs repair or replacement, call Alderfer Glass for expert assistance in Coopersburg and the surrounding areas!