Is Your Patio Door Leaking?
By: Architectural Visions
With the inevitable spring and summer storms, you may notice moisture seeping through your patio door. While temporary fixes can help stop the leaking, such as laying down a towel or replacing a seal, you may often need to replace the patio door entirely. If you think your patio door may be leaking, read on for signs you need to replace the patio door, issues a leaking patio door causes, and the patio door options that may be best for you.
Key takeaways for a leaking patio door:
- If you’ve exhausted your methods of trying to fix your leaking patio door, it’s likely time to replace the door entirely.
- It may be time to replace the door if you see signs of water around the door or trapped in the glass panes during or after a rainstorm.
- Leaking patio doors can result in many potential issues and hazards, such as a rotted door frame, damage to floors and foundation, and mold, among other issues.
- From sliding doors, swinging doors, French doors and more, options for a new patio door are extensive, based on your preferences for material, functionality and aesthetic value.
Signs you need to replace the patio door
Sliding glass door on back deck
If you’ve exhausted your methods of trying to fix your leaking patio door, it’s likely time to replace the door entirely. Read on for additional signs that indicate it’s time to replace the patio door.
- Water comes in through the door: Assess the patio door during and after rain storms. If you see signs of water around the door or trapped in the glass panes, it may be time to replace the door.
- Visible signs of damage: If the patio door frame is cracked, it will require a replacement. While this is determined by the extent of the damage, this is likely structural damage and will require a full replacement. Also, if the glass is cracked, it will likely need to be replaced.
- The door doesn’t close or lock correctly: When the patio door doesn’t close or align with the frame anymore, it’s probably time to replace the door. Also, if the door doesn’t lock anymore, this safety concern should be addressed as soon as possible. A door that doesn’t close correctly means that the door and frame could be warped, or the track may be worn out.
- It’s hard to open and close the door: Particularly if the patio door is a sliding one, it should open and close smoothly on the track. If it’s difficult to open and close or doesn’t glide along the track smoothly, it may be time to replace it. A door that doesn’t open smoothly may mean broken tracks or water damage.
Issues leaky doors cause
Leaking patio doors can result in many potential issues and hazards. Water entering the house can result in condensation and water pooling on and around the patio door. This moisture can result in a rotted door frame, damage to the floors, a compromised foundation and increased heating and cooling bills. A leaking patio door can also damage the structures surrounding the door. In addition, the excess moisture will cause warping and the paint to peel.
Also, mold can develop when moisture enters a space and can’t escape. For example, mold may begin by discoloring the door frame and surrounding materials and eventually expand to the walls. This level of mold can cause health issues.
Patio door options
The options for a new patio door are extensive, based on your preferences for material, functionality and aesthetic value. There are also countless features to personalize your design.
Types of patio doors and coordinating architectural elements include:
- Sliding patio doors
- Swinging patio doors
- French doors
- Scenic doors, such as multi-slide doors, bi-fold doors and lift-and-slide doors
- Grilles or divided lite patterns add interest to the glass door
- Architectural hardware acts as a statement and comes in various styles and finishes to complement home styles that range from historic to traditional.
AVI Windows & Doors
Turn to a professional to help you find a new patio door by contacting the experts at AVI. AVI is your one-stop-shop for all types of doors, with in-person and online service options. Please don’t hesitate to contact us online or come by one of our Southeast locations and let us help you!