Repairing Patio Doors Patio doors are often difficult to open and close or latch. This can make homeowners feel uncomfortable and may cause security concerns. A professional door technician will assess the situation to determine if the patio doors should be repaired or replaced. However, there are many ways a homeowner can take to solve common issues with patio doors. French patio doors French patio doors allow you to enjoy the outdoors while allowing natural light into your home. Like any door, they may encounter issues from time-to-time. Whether it's a loose handle, a broken lock, or an issue with alignment, regular maintenance and timely repairs can prolong their lifespan and ensure they continue to improve your home. French doors are usually constructed from wood. This material has natural insulation properties and also adds warmth. Wood is prone to swelling and warping, and also rot. It requires regular maintenance. Fiberglass is the most sought-after alternative to wood French doors. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/patio-door-repairs-luton/ is abrasive against mold and has a foam-filled inner core that is energy-efficient. Fiberglass is also more resistant to cold air and heat transmission than wood. French doors aren't just stylish and practical but they also bring a sense security to your home. The large glass panes offer an expansive view of your outdoor space and make it difficult for burglars to enter your home. To ensure your privacy and safety the French doors should be secured with proper locks and handles that are simple to operate. Installing a burglar alarm on your French doors can provide you with extra security. These systems utilize motion sensors and wireless sensors to detect burglaries and alert you to suspicious activities. You can also purchase a shatterproof film that will cover your glass and protect it from intruders. Your French doors may become misaligned over time due to frequent use or changes to the foundation of your home. This can be caused by worn or damaged rollers and hinges, which need to be tightened or replaced. A trained technician for door repair can adjust your hinges and track to restore smooth operation. Sliding patio doors Patio sliding doors offer a beautiful transition between indoors and outdoor spaces and let plenty of light into the home. However, over time these doors may experience issues, from becoming difficult to open and close as well as creaking or squeaking or letting air into the home. If you can identify the cause of the issue, and take care to perform regular maintenance or repairs, your patio door will work properly for many years. If your sliding patio door is moving, it could be due to dirt or debris that has accumulated in the track. It could also be due to worn rollers or an issue with alignment. Clean the track thoroughly using a damp sponge and scrub brush Then, grease the tracks with the correct product. We recommend using the spray can of silicone lubricant that will shield the track from corrosion. You can purchase these products at any hardware store. A patio door could be difficult to open or close when the handle is slack or wobbly. This is usually a straightforward matter of tightening the screw that holds the handle in place or replacing the handle. It is also important to examine and replace the weather strip that surrounds your sliding glass patio door if it's cracked or worn. A properly installed weather strip will increase energy efficiency and reduce noise, and also prevent air leaks. To replace the weather strip, first take off the door, then lift the bottom supported section of the frame straight up, and carefully angle it to lift the rollers off the track. Then, spread a dropcloth on the floor. Then, remove the plugs that protect the screws that adjust the rollers. 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 a number of advantages. They let in natural light and allow easy access to backyards, patios, and other outdoor areas. They also help to make homes more comfortable. They also offer homeowners the chance to create an environment that is unique to their lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Like any other part of the home, they are susceptible to breakage or damage and need to be repaired. These types of repairs can be completed quickly and easily, saving you time and money. Many sliding door problems are caused by dirty or damaged rollers or tracks. Over time, dust and debris, and even rust, can build up on the tracks, causing them to become difficult to move or become stuck. The easiest solution is to clean the tracks and using a silicone-based lubricant to loosen them. Avoid using grease as it can attract more dirt and cause further issues. Another common reason that sliding doors can become more difficult to open and close is due to a misaligned locking mechanism. If your patio door locks are hard to lock and unlock, or you notice that they're not aligned with the door's frame, it's a good idea call a professional to inspect the hardware components and determine whether an adjustment or replacement is needed. If a sliding glass door starts to appear dull and cloudy, it's possible that the sealed seal between the double-panes may have been compromised. This is a problem that is caused by condensation. If you suspect it, contact a professional. Locks and handles The handles and locks on patio doors play a critical role in the functionality, security, and aesthetics of your outdoor living space. Pick from a range of innovative and functional hardware for your patio door. From color-matched and upgraded finishings to multipoint locking systems there are many choices. In many cases, patio doors become hard to open due to the rollers that run at the top and bottom of the runner are wearing down and getting caught against the track. The best way to avoid this from happening is to clean the tracks of your sliding doors every time you vacuum and apply a thin oil one time each year (do not use WD40! ). If you have trouble opening your patio door, it could be time to replace the handle and lock. Remove the handle on the inside and locking mechanism and check for signs of wear. This could be bent latches or a loose handle, screw that holds the handle, for example. If the latch is bent or damaged it's time to replace the mortise lock and handle. Glass patio doors that slide open can also be difficult to lock. The lock mechanism is held in position by a rod which is connected to the frame. It is then operated by an operator. If the lock becomes loose you can tighten the rod or replace it with a brand new one. Sliding glass patio doors are a prime target for burglars since they offer a clear view of the house and are usually located at the rear of the property. Installing a door lock jambar and anti-snap locks will help keep your family safe. Weatherstripping Weatherstripping prevents rain and air from entering into your home, thus saving you cash on heating and cooling. It is a simple, do-it-yourself moisture test to determine which windows and doors require additional seals. Wet your hands and run it along the edges of your window or door. If you feel cold air coming in, you need to add more weatherstripping. Felt weatherstripping is available at many hardware stores in rolls and is a bargain. It is available in reinforced or plain versions that have a flexible metal strip. It is easy to install. It's less durable than other types, but might require replacement after two years. Another alternative is foam tape that is available in plain and reinforced versions. It is also simple to install but less durable than rubber and it can be more prone to moisture with time. Another option that is more permanent is to use interlocking weatherstripping made of metal that requires the removal of the threshold and is best left to experts. It is comprised of two V-shaped metal pieces that lock together to create an impervious seal to the door when closed. Both rubber and vinyl weatherstripping are available in a variety of shapes, colors, and thicknesses. The decision between the two is mostly a matter of your preference and budget. Rubber is generally more durable than vinyl and it is more secure in humid conditions. It also makes use of a natural, renewable resource, while vinyl is a petroleum product.