Replacing Your own Patio Doors

Is your patio door looking tired and weather beaten, has it seen better days? Patio doors do tend to get a bit of a hammering with all that Mother Nature throws at it.

If bits are stiff or falling off it may be time to replace your patio door. "That's going to be expensive". I hear you say. Well, I say, not necessarily, even with some basic DIY skills and tools you could, quite easily, replace the doors yourself.

A Guide to Replacing Your Own Patio Doors:

1. Removal of the patio door should be straight forward, just be careful when handling any glass panels. Take your door apart in sections by removing the sliding door and the fixed unit and any screws.

2. Remove the security panel that prevents the sliding door from being raised, and then remove the door from its slide rail, removing any screws.

3. Take the second panel out using the same method, removing any screws. Take out the rollers using a screwdriver.

4. Removal of the main frame should be easy. Inspect the area that was under the frame making sure that it is clear of any remaining screws, bits of wood or metal.

5. Using wedges make sure the new patio door frame is straight, square and level ready to receive the new door. Secure the door frame with frame fixers.

6. Insert the new sliding door by threading the top of the door so that it locates on the top slide rail of the frame then swing the bottom of the door in and let it gently drop on to the lower slide rail.

7. Make any adjustment to the door, door lock and slide mechanism and make sure the door opens and closes fully and smoothly and that it locks and unlocks easily.

8. Fit any trim pieces to make a nice tidy looking job. Repair any plaster work that may have been damaged when removing the old frame.

9. Seal the outside frame with mastic or silicon for a good weather seal.

If in doubt about replacing your patio door consult a professional. Read the instructions that were provided with your new door and follow any safety recommendations.

Patio doors enhance your property's appearance and have great practical value they may even add value to your property so it’s worth making sure they look good and are regularly checked for smooth running.

Make sure the slide rails stay clear of debris and little stones that may hinder the sliding action of the door and may cause damage.