Why You Should Hire a Professional Patio Door Repair Company
French patio doors are a great method to connect your indoors and outdoors. However, they could require periodic repairs to fix common issues. Incorrect alignment, damaged seals, faulty locks and handles glass that is foggy or cracked and drafts are a few examples.
Foggy glass is a sign of a compromised seal, which can lead to moisture and air leaks. This can compromise energy efficiency and increase your utility bills.
Misalignment
All sliding patio doors will become worn out over time. They lose their original form and can be difficult to open or close. These issues can be easily fixed by adjusting your door and restoring it to its original size.
The sliding patio doors depend on rollers to slide smoothly across the tracks, and when they're misaligned it can cause them to become stuck and even damage your track system and glass panels. This could be caused by excessive use of the door, improper maintenance and cleaning, or simply due to the aging process of. In order to prevent this from happening, you should periodically check your patio door for signs that it is out of alignment and immediately take action when you notice it.
If the operating panel isn't able to open or shut, especially when trying to lock your patio door, it is a sign that it is out of alignment. This can be caused by various issues however the most common is that the rollers have lost their traction and aren't moving along the track as effortlessly. This can be easily fixed by loosening the adjusting screws which are usually located on the bottom corners of your door. You can then turn them clockwise or anticlockwise to adjust the door's height.
It is possible that your patio door is out of alignment due to an unbalanced frame, which is tricky to diagnose and require professional intervention. In this case, you may need to install a wood shim over the door jamb at the point where it meets the operating panel.
It's also normal for a double French patio door to become uneven over time. This makes it difficult to lock them and let drafts into your home. This is typically caused by the weight of doors, which makes them to move differently on each side of the opening. It is essential to check and tighten your French doors immediately you notice any loose fasteners to avoid any further damage.
Weatherstripping damaged
A worn or damaged weatherstripping seal can create gaps around your patio door that allow drafts to get in. This can impact the efficiency of your home's energy use and comfort. You can repair or replace the weatherstripping to stop drafts and increase the insulation around your doors.
Misaligned Rollers
Your patio door could be hindered by loose or damaged rollers. Regular cleaning and lubrication will aid in restoring the smooth operation.
Dirty Tracks
A layer of dirt or dust on the tracks can cause bumping or sticking when you open or close your patio door. Cleaning and lubricating the tracks and rollers can solve this issue.
Broken Glass
French patio doors feature large glass panels that let in ample natural light and beautiful views. However, if the glass develops cracks or chips, this can compromise the integrity of the door. It should be repaired immediately.
Handles are faulty Handles
Handles that are worn or loose can affect the functioning of your patio doors. The tightening or replacement of loose handles can improve performance and give you a firm grip on the handlebar.
Missing or damaged weatherstripping
Worn or missing weatherstripping creates gaps which allow drafts to enter your home. Weatherstripping that is damaged or replaced may improve energy efficiency and reduce noise.
You can inspect the weatherstripping for signs of damage like obvious wear, missing chunks, or a swelling appearance. If the weatherstripping has worn-out you can buy and install new strips following the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific model of door.
You can also use a high-quality caulk to fill in cracks or gaps around your doors and frames. This is a simple solution that can be completed quickly and is less expensive than replacing the existing weatherstripping. Make sure to regularly check the seal of your door and fix any issues to avoid costly repairs in the future. Along with improving efficiency, properly maintaining your doors and windows will help prevent pests, moisture and rot, as well as maintain the beauty of your home. A professional can evaluate the condition of your door and suggest the best course for replacement or maintenance.
Broken or foggy Glass
If you notice cracks or chips in your patio door glass, it's time to replace it. Broken or foggy patio doors can be a source of displeasure and can also pose a security threat by allowing intruders into the home. It is crucial to fix your patio doors as quickly as possible if you spot any damage.
The best way to determine if your glass needs to be replaced is to examine the appearance and condition of your door frame. Most of the time, chips and cracks can be repaired by our professionals without needing complete replacement. You can then use caulk, flexible seal or other sealants to fill cracks and close any gaps.
If your patio doors start to fog up, they are likely made from double- or triple-paned windows that are insulated. This is a clear sign that your window panes may be leaky and the inert gas that keeps them warm during cold weather has moved on out. The loss of gas in the windows can cause windows to be less energy efficient than they were previously and is one of the main reasons why people decide to replace their patio doors rather than fixing them.
It's also possible that your windows are creating excessive moisture in the first place. Installing a dehumidifier in the area where your patio doors are will help keep humidity levels low. This can make your home more comfortable and reduce the likelihood that you'll need to replace your patio doors.
Wear safety gear like gloves and shoes when you remove broken glass to avoid causing cuts. To avoid patio door lock repair near me to yourself and others, it is recommended to take your pets and children from the area while it is being cleaned.
Once you've taken out the broken glass and cleaned the area of work and get ready to install the new patio door. It is recommended to seal the joints first with flex-seal or caulk. This will prevent any future water from getting into the joints. Then, you can add a desiccant to the inside of your sliding door glass to take away any condensation that may appear in the future.
Drafts
Sliding patio doors are one of the largest pieces of glass that can be found in a house. They are often used and can result in drafts and air leakage. Drafts are caused by a number of different factors such as the lack of proper maintenance or repair, aging or wear and tear and the misalignment. A professional can help identify and fix the problem, restoring comfort and boosting energy efficiency in your home.
Over time, the seal around your patio door will expand and contract as it adjusts to changing weather conditions. This can lead to air leaks or drafts which can be uncomfortable for your family and friends, as well as consume energy. Regularly cleaning your doors, the lubrication of moving parts and replacing worn-out parts is the best way to prevent drafts and air leaking. If you notice a draft, do the "Draft Test" to see if it is due to a poorly sealing door: Place yourself close to your patio doors using an open flame from a match or lighter. If the flame moves in response to the draft, this is a sign that your doors are no longer properly sealed and should be replaced as soon as possible.
A damaged or worn-out weather stripping can be another reason for drafts. This can be easily fixed by taking off the old stripping and installing new, higher quality weather stripping, which will give more of a seal, which will reduce drafts and improve your energy efficiency.
If the locking mechanism of your sliding patio door has been damaged, it is recommended to consult a professional to fix it. A damaged patio door lock could raise your energy bills and also present the risk of security. The replacement of the lock is a straightforward repair that can be completed quickly by a professional. This will not only improve your safety and security but also increase the value of your home and increase curb appeal. It is important to evaluate your own abilities and time available against the cost of a professional service before attempting DIY patio door repairs.