Top tips for post-winter patio door maintenance

Replacing Weatherstrips

Low and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on many internal and external hardware, with patio sliding door systems being no exception. When combined with consistent use, the weatherstripping designed to protect your property from the elements can become worn and brittle.

Therefore, proper maintenance would require you to remove the old weatherstrips, thoroughly cleaning the area, then installing new weatherstrips according to supplier instructions.

It is also vital to then test your doors functionality with these new weatherstrips installed to ensure they are positioned correctly. You can shop our range of Weatherstrips here.

Thorough cleaning

Due to the fact that patio door systems are subjected to users moving from internal and external spaces and vice versa, they can be prone to a build-up of dirt and debris, which can cause far more issues beyond aesthetics.

With any type of sliding door system being heavily reliant on moving parts such as tracks and rollers, this type of organic matter can build up and cause clogged systems and even possibly damage.

These types of doors should be easy to move and control, so if this is not the case, every part of your patio door system should be thoroughly cleaned around once a month. This should be done by first removing the larger items of debris either by hand or using a vacuum.

When it comes to the moving parts, a small wire brush or even a simple toothbrush can be used alongside warm, soapy water to ensure your patio door system is sparkling clean and working properly.

Proper lubrication

If you find that even after cleaning the moving parts of your patio door system that it is still not operating as smoothly as it should be, the issue may be that these parts need lubricating.

For this type of system, silicone-based lubricant is highly recommended, as this type of lubricant is less likely to attract the dirt that can cause the issues previously mentioned. Once the lubricant has been applied, ensure that any excess is wiped away and that the door is opened and closed several times to spread the lubricant evenly and thoroughly.

You can find silicone-based lubricants within our expansive range of Screws, Fixings and Adhesives.

Checking handles and locks

A vital aspect to consider when it comes to patio door maintenance is protecting some of the security aspects of the system.

Defective locks and bolts on patio door systems create an obvious security risk, as a patio door can be an easy access to your premises, and handles not functioning properly can cause a variety of issues, even the risk of losing access through the door.

Unlike the moving parts of the patio door system, oil-based lubricants are recommended in this case, to prevent rust, corrosion, and stiffness. You should be checking your locks and handles regularly for signs such as these.

Patio Door Handle

 A patio door system can be a standout feature in a property and making sure that the functionality of the system is maintained all year round can be a very easy process if these simple tips are followed. Whether you’re looking to install a Patio or Sliding Door into your property, or just replacing or upgrading parts of an existing system, you can find it all within our range.