Most homes get appreciation due to their exteriors and a door is a significant part of a home’s exterior. While the landscaping, greenery and some furniture will take care of the decor to a large extent. Often, it is only patio door that catches the eyes of the onlooker. Many people like to decorate their patio doors with wreaths and other such things but it is important to maintain the door in a good condition. Being an exterior door, the patio door is prone to easily get damaged. A broken window pane or any other form of damage to the patio door will hamper the entire look and feel of the decor. Here is how you can easily replace your patio door and bring back the beauty to your exteriors.
Complexity level: Moderate
Time required: 4 hours to 6 hours
Resources Required:
1. Screwdriver,
2. Circular saw,
3. Utility knife
4. Hammer
5. Nails
6. Pry bar
7. Tube of caulking
8. Caulk gun
9. Drill
10. Shim.
Instructions:
1. Removing the old door: The first step in replacing the old patio door is to carefully remove the existing door keeping the door frame intact. You can do this by prying away the interior trim of the door using a pry bar. You will then need to unscrew and remove the stile cover.
2. Unscrewing and removing the sliding panel: Once you remove the stile cover, you will be able to easily grip the sliding panel and tip the top in, lifting the bottom out of its track. By removing the sliding panel this way, you will be able to still use the sliding track with the new panel if it is in good shape.
3. Removing caulk or paint: There might be times that the caulk or paint may hold the door in place. In such a case, you will need to use the utility knife to cut away the caulk or paint so that the door or the sliding panel can be conveniently lift out of the track.
4. Removing the old frame: After you have removed the old door, you will have to pry off the exterior trim using the pry bar and the circular or reciprocating saw. The nails that join the frame and framing also have to be cut and the frame can then be removed from the opening.
5. Fixing the new frame: Before the new frame is fixed, check the window sill level. Use a level and shim to check the center of the frame then make any adjustments if needed. Lean the sliding door carefully into the frame and screw it in to place. Adjust the roller height until the gap between the door jamb and the door is even. Lastly, replace the trim on the exterior and interior wall. The new patio door is ready to function.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What types of window coverings can be used for patio doors?
There are several options of window covering that look good on a patio door. Blinds in fabric or wooden blinds can be used. Wooden blinds give a rustic feel which blends well with the exteriors. You can also use curtains. However, the benefit with blinds is that you can pull them down when you need privacy and pull them up when you want sunshine.
Quick tips:
It is time saving to have the useful tools with you, while replacing the patio door.
Things to watch out for:
1. Always wear protective gear to ensure your safety.
2. Follow the instructions and guidelines as per the manuals for the tools you are using.
3. If you working with the glass, keep children out of reach.