Ah, springtime. The wonderful time of year when the kids are able to play out in the backyard. And then come in for a drink. And then go back out to play some more. And then run in to use the bathroom. And then run back out to play some more. And then back in for a snack.
How’s that patio door doing? While the useful life of a sliding glass door averages around 30 years, families with active young children often discover the door might not last that long. Signs your patio door needs repair or replacement include:
Damage to the Glass: Cracks, chips, dings and other damage to the glass – even if it’s small – is a sign that the door needs some attention. Small damages make the glass vulnerable to big, dramatic, dangerous damage later – such as when a child who’s not watching where they’re going runs into that door. A door with undamaged glass will have a much greater ability to resist being broken in this situation than a door where the glass is already cracked.
A Door that Will Not Open or Close Easily: If the kids have to really tug or pull to get the door open or closed, it’s time to have your South Shore window and door company come give it a little TLC. Sliding glass doors operate on a track, and if that track has become twisted, bent, or otherwise compromised, it’s going to need repair or replacement.
The Door Leaks Water Into the Home: With lots of heavy use, the seals that surround a patio door can become compromised. If your door is letting water into the home – especially if you see puddles develop around it at a time when no one is going in and out of the doorway – it’s a clear sign the door is past its prime and needs replacement.