Repairing Patio Doors Patio doors may become difficult to open and close, or latch. This can create discomfort and security issues for homeowners. A trained door technician can assess the situation to determine if the patio doors should be repaired or replaced. There are a myriad of ways that homeowners can tackle the common issues with patio doors. French patio doors French patio doors let you to enjoy the outdoors while allowing natural light into your home. However, just like any other door, they will encounter issues from time to time. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will extend the lifespan of your door, regardless of whether it's because of a damaged lock, loose handle, or if they aren't aligned correctly. Traditionally, French doors are made of wood, which offers natural insulation and adds warmth to a room. However, because wood is susceptible to swelling, warping and rot, it requires regular maintenance. Fiberglass is the most sought-after alternative to wood French doors. It is resistant against rot and has a foam-filled core that is energy efficient. Fiberglass is also more resistant to cold air and heat transmission than wood. In addition to their aesthetics and function, French doors add a sense of security to your home. The large glass panes offer an expansive view of your outdoor space, making it difficult for burglars to get into your home. French doors that are secured with locks and handles should be easy to operate. This will guarantee privacy and security. If you're looking to add extra security to your French doors, think about installing a burglar alarm. These alarms use motion detectors and wireless sensors to detect burglaries and alert you to suspicious activities. You can also purchase a shatterproof film that will protect your glass and shield it from intruders. Over time, your French doors can become skewed due to frequent use or changes in the foundation of your home. This could be due loose or worn hinges as well as rollers that need to be tightened. A professional door technician will adjust the track and hinges to ensure smooth operation. Sliding patio doors Patio sliding doors are a great way to transition from indoors to outside. They also allow for plenty of sunlight to enter the home. However, over time these doors may develop problems in the form of being difficult to open and close as well as creaking or squeaking or letting air into the home. Finding the source of the issue and executing timely maintenance or repairs can keep your patio door operating well for many years to come. If your sliding patio door is dragging it could be because of dirt or debris inside the track. It could also be due to worn rollers or misalignment. Clean the track thoroughly using a scrub brush and sponge and then lubricate the tracks using the right product. We recommend using a spray bottle of silicone lubricant that protects the track against corrosion. You can purchase these products at any hardware store. A patio door might be difficult to close or open when the handle is slack or wobbly. Most of the time, it's just a the matter of tightening or replacing the loose screw that is holding the handle in place. It is also important to examine and replace the weather strip around your sliding glass patio door if it's cracked or worn. A properly installed weather strip can improve energy efficiency and decrease noise, and also help prevent air leaks. To replace the weatherstrip, remove the door, then lift up the bottom part of the frame. Then, incline it in a sharp way to lift the rollers off the track. Next, lay a drop cloth on the floor and then remove the plugs that cover the screws for adjustment of the rollers at the bottom of the frame. Turn the screw counterclockwise with a flathead driver until the rollers retract back to the track. Sliding glass patio doors Sliding patio doors provide homeowners with many advantages. They allow in natural light and allow easy access to patios, backyards and other outdoor spaces. They also help to make homes more comfortable. They allow homeowners to create an area that is distinctive and suits their aesthetic and lifestyle preferences. As with any other area of the home, they are prone to damage or breakage and need to be repaired. These types of repairs can be completed quickly and efficiently making it easier to save time and money. Most times, issues with sliding doors are the result of damaged or dirty tracks or rollers. Over time, dust and debris and even rust can accumulate on the tracks, which can cause them to become difficult to move or become stuck. This can be easily fixed by cleaning the tracks, and then applying the lubricant based on silicone. Be cautious when using grease as it can attract additional dirt and cause more issues in the future. Another common reason that sliding doors may become more difficult to open and close is due to a misaligned locking mechanism. If you find that your patio door locks are difficult to lock or unlock, or if they aren't aligned properly with the frame of the doors, it is a good idea to speak with an expert who will examine the hardware and determine if an adjustment or replacement is required. If your sliding glass door appears dull and cloudy, it could be because the insulated seal has become damaged. This issue is caused by condensation. If you suspect that it's the case, contact a professional. Handles and locks The handles and locks on patio doors are essential to the appearance, function, and security of your outdoor living area. Select from a selection of functional and innovative hardware for your patio doors, ranging including color-matched and upgraded finishes to multipoint locking systems. In many cases, patio doors become hard to open due the rollers that run at the top and bottom of the runner are wearing down and rubbing against the track. To prevent this, clean the sliding-door track every time you vacuum, and apply a thin lubricant once every year. Do not use WD40. ). If you're having difficulty opening your patio doors, it may be time to replace the handle and lock. Take off the handle inside and lock mechanism, and look for signs of wear. This could include bent latches or a loose handle, handle screw, etc. If the latch is bent or damaged it's time to replace the mortise lock and handle. The sliding glass patio doors can also be difficult to lock. This is because the mechanism for locking is fixed by a rod fixed to the frame and operated by a handle. If the lock is loose, you can tighten the rod or replace it by a a brand new one. Sliding patio doors that have glass are a favorite target for burglars because they provide a clear view of the house and are usually located in the rear of the house. Installing a door jambar as well as anti-snap locks will keep your family secure. Weatherstripping Weatherstripping blocks air and rain from entering into your home, saving you money on heating and cooling. You can perform a simple moisture test yourself to determine if you require more seals. Wet your hand and then run it across the edges of your door or window. You need more weatherstripping if you feel cold air entering your home. Felt weatherstripping is sold at many hardware stores in rolls and is inexpensive. It is available in plain or reinforced with a pliable metal strip, and is simple to install. It's less durable than other types, but may require replacement in about two years. Foam tape is a different option. It is available in both reinforced and plain varieties. It's also easy to install however it's less durable than rubber weatherstripping and is susceptible to moisture conditions over time. An alternative that is more durable is to use interlocking weatherstripping made of metal that requires the removal of the threshold and should be left to the professionals. It has two V-shaped pieces that lock together and create an enveloping seal when the door is shut. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/southend-patio-door-repairs-near-me/ can find both rubber and vinyl weatherstripping in a variety of colors, shapes and thicknesses. The decision between vinyl and rubber weatherstripping is mostly determined by the budget and personal preferences. Rubber is generally more durable than vinyl and it also seals better in humid conditions. Rubber is also a renewable natural resource, unlike vinyl, which is a petroleum-based product.