Patios are a lovely addition to any home. As with any home feature, components of a patio will require maintenance. One such component is the sliding patio door. Weather conditions, constant use of the sliding patio doors, and changes in the temperature, can cause problems resulting in the need to make adjustments. Adjusting a sliding patio door is simple when you know what you are doing. Below is a guide on how to adjust a sliding patio door.
1. If the sliding door is not opening easy, such as if it is sticking, you can make the correction by adjusting the bottom track roller or glider. There is a screw that keeps the wheel in position so you will need to loosen it. A slotted screw will require a slotted screwdriver. If the glides or rollers are worn or broken, you can buy replacements at any hardware store. If it does not need replacement, you can just readjust the wheel to see if that fixes the problem. You should also make sure all components are properly greased.
2. If the problem is not something as simple as sticking, you can make further adjustments by first, opening the patio door several inches. Take out the plugs that are located above the door's rollers. Use a flat head screwdriver to pull out the plugs. Check the length between the frame of the bottom and top of the sliding door. You should see if the 'reveal' is level all the way across. If it is not level, you will be able to identify the side of the door that needs to be either lowered or raised. Turn the screwdriver in the hole where the plug was located. The purpose is to make the 'reveal' uniform along both the top and bottom. Turn the screwdriver left to lower the door and right to lift the door. Slide the patio door back and forth to see if the problem is resolved.
3. A sticking door can be caused by a dirty track. Remove the patio door from the frame and use a broom to clean out the debris. Check the track holes to make sure they are not clogged and preventing water from draining away from the track. Wash the tracks with a detergent and warm water. Let it air dry and then grease the track. Re-install the door and slide the door back and forth to test it.
4. Dirty rollers or guides can cause patio doors to stick. It is easy to clean and then lubricate. If they are damaged, you will have to replace them. Kerosene is effective at removing sticky material. After cleaning out any sticky gunk, make sure all of the kerosene is properly washed off and let the rollers air dry before adding lubricant.
After making any adjustment to the sliding patio door, make sure you test it before completely reinstalling it in case you have to make further adjustments. The advantage of sliding patio doors is that they allow for easy removal so that one can get to the parts that need adjustments.
Author Resource:
Windows manufacturer uses state of the art technology for replacement windows and patio doors products. View our selection of quality doors and windows including bay/bow windows - all backed by our Stellar Lifetime warranty.