Step-by-Step Guide: How to Adjust Patio Doors that Have Dropped
Patio doors provide easy access to your garden, and having them open during the warmer months is a big advantage. However, as they are in regular use, this can cause wear and tear, resulting in problems over time.
Patio doors provide easy access to your exterior garden, and you can enjoy their advantages during the warmer months. Since they are regularly used, they can cause wear and tear, resulting in problems over time.
In this article, we discuss how to fix dropped sliding patio doors and adjust the patio door hinges.
What are patio doors?
Patio doors are a type of sliding door that provides an outdoor patio or deck. They usually comprise two or more panels gliding on a track, allowing them to open and close smoothly.
Various materials, like wood, vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass, can be used to make patio doors.
Patio doors allow easy accessibility to the outdoors, natural light, and outside view, making them a popular choice among homeowners.
How to fix a dropped sliding patio door?
Sliding doors run along a track, and the track usually causes issues with the door opening smoothly after some time. Here are some steps to get your sliding patio doors back to their best.
Clean the crack
Over time, the track will likely accumulate debris, such as dirt, leaves, etc., at the bottom of the sliding door. The first step is to clean all the debris using a stiff hand brush to remove the bulk of the debris, followed by the vacuum.
Adjust the rollers
If the rollers are in good condition, adjust the track and ensure that the track is level and no debris is left even after cleaning to prevent the door from sliding smoothly.
Lubricate the track
Once you are done with cleaning the track and adjusting the rollers, it is time to lubricate the track and the rollers to help with a smooth and easy sliding action. Check if the door is sliding smoothly.
Check the weatherstripping
Ensure the weatherstripping is in good condition and that it is sealing nicely.
If your patio door is not fixed even after following all the steps, it may be time to replace the track or the door. If you are not sure you can do it by yourself, it is best to hire a professional to do the job.
How to adjust patio door hinges?
The correct methods to adjust patio door hinges depend on the direction of misalignment. If there is a gap at the bottom of your door, it requires some adjusting on the hinge side. Often these methods follow the same steps as given below:
1. Measure the awkward distance between the leaf and the distance
2. Take off the plastic covers that protect the hinge adjustment screws.
3. Depending on the need for fine-tuning, turn the screw clockwise or anticlockwise using a Phillips screwdriver.
There are three ways to adjust internal door hinges to solve alignment issues. The steps are:
- Swap to longer screws
Longer screws help pull the door closer to the door frame and realign it.
- Pack out the door hinge
Loosen the door hinge and slip cardboard between the hinge and the frame until the hinge is adjusted properly. Then tighten the screws, and your problem will be fixed.
- Widen the gap between the door & the frame
Remove the hinge fastened to the door frame by unscrewing it to solve this issue. Create a deeper hollow for the hinge to rest by cutting around the edge of the compression marks and chipping away at the wood. Reapply the hinges.
Also, read Types of uPVC door hinges.
For more information on patio doors, composite or uPVC doors, visit Trade Windows Online.
FAQs
1. How much are patio doors?
ANS: The cost of a modern sliding patio door ranges from £500 to £2,500, whereas the price of a classic French patio door is between £500 and £1,500.
2. Are double sliding patio doors energy efficient?
ANS: Double sliding patio doors can be energy-efficient with insulated glass and a good seal around the frame. For the greatest efficiency, look for Energy Star-rated doors.
