Windows aren’t the only source of drafts in the winter. Patio doors can be a culprit, too, especially if the door is old. There are a ton of signs that it’s time to invest in a new sliding door for your patio or backyard. Here are four of them:
1. Your patio door is sticking
Over time, patio doors begin sticking with use. Like your front door, your patio door warps over time, too. Therefore, if your patio door needs some elbow grease to open, it’s time to start looking at a new one. Worse, if it won’t open at all (and obviously, you’ve checked to ensure it’s not locked or barred), it’s well past time to invest in a new door!
The good news about this problem is that the entire door, plus the frames, might not need replacing. If it’s just the sliding door that’s warped or bent, it could be a breeze to just get a new sliding door. Ask your contractor, inspector, or repair technician if this is possible.
2. Is there a gap around the door?
Like windows, if the patio door has warp4ed with age, cracks around the frame can appear, letting in both cold and hot weather and unwanted guests like bugs and rodents. Worn-out weatherstripping can also let drafts in, costing you higher energy bills.
If there’s a draft around your patio door, inspect the frame and the weatherstripping. If you find a crack or any wear and tear, then you’ve found your culprit.
3. Is the glass cracked or frosty?
Cracks in the glass can seem obvious. A crack is a crack; you know it when you see it. However, cracks or leaks can also happen in places where you can’t see them. How do you catch them? Condensation.
If there’s frost or condensation in your patio door, that means moisture can get in and out, signaling a leak.
4. Does your door leak?
Worse, if there’s a crack in the siding between your door and wall, water can get in, causing floor damage, mold, and more damage to your house that can spell out costly repair bills. If there’s unexplained water puddles around the wall or floor of your patio door, check your siding for leaks.
If you’re ready to replace your old patio door, contact us today and we’ll get the process started right away! Meanwhile, see what we have to offer for a new, stylish, high-quality patio door!