Patio Door Care 101: Simple Steps for Big Results

1. Weatherstripping: Inspect weatherstripping twice a year (spring and fall) and replace if worn.
2. Sealant: Check caulking around the frame for cracks and reseal as necessary.
3. Glass Sealant: Check for fog or white residue between the glass (if under warranty, notify the vendor you purchased from).
4. Glass Cleaning: Clean glass regularly with a non-abrasive cleaner to maintain visibility.
5. Frame Cleaning: Clean the vinyl frame with mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals.
6. Lubrication: Use silicone-based lubricant on moving parts to ensure smooth operation. Never use WD-40 (the standard version) or heavy grease on patio door tracks. They are "wet" lubricants that actually attract dust and pet hair, creating a "sludge" that will eventually seize the rollers. Stick strictly to Dry Silicone or Teflon sprays.
7. Lock and Handle Inspection: Tighten any loose screws and lubricate locks with graphite lubricant.

The door

1. Track Cleaning: Regularly vacuum or sweep the track to remove debris.
2. Roller Maintenance: Lubricate the rollers every few months with silicone-based lubricant.
3. Alignment: Adjust rollers if the door is difficult to slide to ensure it is level and plumb.
4. Winter Care: Remove ice and snow buildup around the track to prevent obstruction.
5. Over time, the "strike plate" (where the latch hits the frame) can shift. Check that the hook or latch is fully engaging. If the door has "settled," a thief can often lift the door off the track from the outside. Maintenance should include ensuring the anti-lift blocks (at the top of the track) are in place.
6. Close the door on a piece of paper. If you can pull the paper out with no resistance, the seal is gone, and that’s where your drafts are coming from. This is more accurate than just looking for cracks.
7. Most sliding patio doors have small drainage holes (weep holes) on the exterior bottom of the frame. These frequently get clogged with dirt or dead bugs. If they are blocked, water will back up into the interior track and eventually leak into your subfloor or rot your carpet. Use a thin wire or compressed air to ensure they are clear.
8. Maintenance isn't just about the door itself; it’s about the environment around it. High interior humidity in the winter leads to condensation on the glass, which drips down and ruins the wooden trim or creates mould on the silicone. Keeping your home’s humidity between 30–40% in winter is a "maintenance" step for the door's longevity.
9. Roller Height Adjustment - Most sliding doors have adjustment screws at the bottom corners (sometimes hidden by a plastic plug). Turning these clockwise usually raises the door. If your door is hard to slide even after cleaning, it's likely the rollers have settled or worn down and need a height adjustment to stay off the track.
10. If you are considering adding a DIY window tint to reduce heat, be careful. Applying aftermarket tinting film to modern double-pane (Low-E) glass can sometimes cause the glass to overheat and shatter due to thermal stress. Always check if this voids your warranty before applying anything to the glass.

The screens

1. Clean Regularly: Vacuum and wash the screen and tracks.
2. Lubricate Tracks: Use silicone-based lubricant.
3. Inspect for Damage: Patch or replace damaged screens and rollers.
4. Adjust Rollers: Ensure proper alignment.
5. Check Frame and Weatherstripping: Replace if necessary.
6. Handle Gently: Avoid slamming the door.
7. Seasonal Check: Inspect and clean seasonally.

1. Hinge Maintenance: Lubricate hinges regularly with silicone-based lubricant to prevent squeaking.
2. Door Alignment: Ensure the door is properly aligned to prevent air leaks and difficulty in closing.
3. Threshold Cleaning: Keep the threshold clean and free of dirt and debris to ensure a proper seal.
4. Winter Care: Clear snow and ice from around the door to prevent damage and ensure smooth operation.

1. DIY Installation: Use certified installers.
2. Modifications: Do not alter the frame or structure.
3. Harsh Chemicals: Avoid abrasive cleaners and strong solvents.
4. Incorrect Lubrication: Only use silicone-based lubricants.
5. Excessive Force: Do not force the door open or closed.
6. Drilling Holes: Avoid drilling into the door or frame.
7. Weather Neglect: Prepare for extreme weather and remove ice/snow buildup.
8. Unauthorised Repairs: Use authorised service providers.
9. Non-OEM Parts: Use only original manufacturer parts.
10. Neglecting Maintenance: Regularly clean, inspect, and lubricate.
11. Film Tints: Check to see if they will void the warranty; some manufacturers allow only specific brands.