Sliding doors are great space-saving solutions that provide natural lighting, ventilation and easy access between your indoor and outdoor living areas. As with other types of patio and entry doors, sliding doors have problems inherent to their design. Patio door and window replacement contractor StateWide Energy Solutions shares common sliding patio door problems and how to address them.
- Inoperable Doors — A typical sliding patio door features rollers set into the bottom part of the door frame. Sometimes dirt or debris get into the areas where the rollers are, which can make the doors hard to open and close. In some cases, the door sashes may get stuck. Should this happen, do not force the door open. Have someone assist you with removing the sashes as instructed in the care and maintenance manual, then use a brush to clean the track and rollers. You may also have to apply lubricant.
- Misaligned Sashes — Materials that make up patio door frames and sashes, as well as all manner of premade and custom windows, expand and contract from temperature changes. When this happens, the sashes can become misaligned. Often, this can be resolved by simply sliding the door open and closed a few times. Failing that, you may need to call a patio door contractor for repairs. Investing in patio doors made of quality materials can help minimize dealing with problems related to thermal expansion and contraction.
- Latches Won’t Catch — Sliding patio doors are equipped with latches that pull the sash toward the frame once engaged. If the latches fail to catch, apply oil or lubrication (as stated in your care and maintenance guide) then try opening and closing it a few times. If this fails to work, you may need to replace the lock assembly. Depending on the type of patio door, you can either purchase a drop-in replacement or ask your contractor if they have replacements.
- Damaged Weatherstripping — Weatherstripping is typically made of rubber and designed to create a seal between the door frame and sashes. Cracked, worn-out, or damaged weatherstripping needs to be replaced, which, fortunately, is an easy task. Make sure you get the correct weatherstripping size for your patio door. Follow the installation process as described in the package.
StateWide Energy Solutions is your leading provider of energy efficient windows and patio doors. Give us a call at (214) 302-0557 or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Dallas, TX and the surrounding areas.
