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Sliding patio doors used to get negative reviews due to a variety of issues. But with the advanced manufacturing of sliding doors these days, this type of door has become more durable and can better withstand storms and other weather events. They can last for many years if given the proper care and maintenance.
Nevertheless, some circumstances may still cause a sliding door to fail. These can range from bad maintenance habits and poor use to age and severe weather conditions. If you have a sliding door in your Nashville home, you might benefit from knowing the most common reasons for the failure of this type of door.
The rolling bearings typically have grease, which enable them to function smoothly. However, the service life of the grease can be shortened or lengthened depending on various factors, such as temperature, bearing arrangement and type, speed and load. Relubricating the bearings should be part of your patio door maintenance routine. Neglecting this can worsen the condition of your bearings.
Proper lubrication enables the bearings to roll without a hitch, and this usually entails using the right kind of lube. If you happen to be using the wrong lube, your sliding door could malfunction. The bearing could create unnecessary friction and excessive heat, which could contribute to metal fatigue and wear.
You might want to inspect your rollers on your sliding doors from time to time. The rollers are usually made of plastic, and they are connected to a metal housing. Make sure that they are in good condition. Because if they are badly corroded or completely broken, the wheel won’t turn, and your door won’t slide properly. Roller failure often requires a simple repair, so call a professional to get it fixed right away.
Sliding doors must be installed correctly in order to function properly. That said, you should make it a priority to hire an experienced and reliable contractor to do the installation. Any errors during the installation process can cause the door to act up later on in its lifespan. And, of course, correcting any mistakes in the installation means wasted time and money for you. So, do your research. Check the contractors’ qualifications and the quality of the previous jobs they have done.
Alignment issues are often caused by improper door installation, loose screws or everyday wear and tear. If you notice that your sliding door has fallen out of alignment, don’t worry because you simply need to adjust it. Make sure to do this immediately so that you can avoid more serious problems or damage to your sliding door.
Pets shed hair all the time, and some of their hair could end up in the bearings of your sliding door. Make it a habit to check your sliding door for any hair buildup. Clean the bearings thoroughly so that accumulation of hair and, even dirt, can be prevented. Keep in mind that hair or dirt buildup in the bearings can result in difficulty opening and closing the door. And, if worse comes to worse, the bearings might even stop working completely.
Renewal by Andersen® of Nashville is a trusted provider of replacement doors and windows. Rest assured, we are committed to providing homeowners with top-notch services. Call us at (866) 609-5033, or fill out our contact form to request a free consultation. We serve customers in Nashville, TN, and the surrounding areas.