Transform Your Cottage With a Simple Fix or a New Patio Door Installation
Cottage patio doors get a lot of use during the summer. And when they aren’t in use during the winter, they are still exposed to extreme weather that can cause warping over time.
Like home windows and doors, cottage patio doors keep bugs and elements out and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
But if your patio doors are showing signs of wear and tear, they could let in pesky mosquitoes and outdoor elements this summer.
Consider the following DIY fixes, or a new patio door installation, to improve the look and function of your patio doors and transform the appearance of your cottage.
Signs of Damage to Watch For
When you open your cottage this spring, check the quality of your patio doors to see if you need to fix or replace the screens and doors. Here are a few common signs to keep an out for that your doors need fixing:
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- Broken-down plastic rollers;
- Broken-down spline—the rubber tubing that holds the screen in place around the frame;
- Dirt and debris stuck in the rollers and tracks;
- Warped tracks; and
- Tears or holes in the sliding screen door.
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Quick DIY Fixes
Clean or Replace the Rollers
If the roller wheels are warped, broken down, or full of dirt and debris, the sliding screen door won’t open and close properly. So remove the screen door to clean or replace the rollers.
Repair or Replace the Tracks
A sliding screen door won’t slide if the tracks are warped. You can either bang them back into place with a hammer, or install new replacement tracks.
Patch or Replace the Screen
If there are holes or tears in the screen, patch using a screen patch kit that matches your screen. Or, you can replace the entire screen if you don’t want to see the patch.
How to Make Patio Doors Look Expensive
You can add a touch of style and class by making your patio doors look like French doors. French doors consist of 15 glass panes separated by thin strips of wood called muntins. To transform your patio doors into French doors, secure muntins to the glass using a clear silicone adhesive.
The Best Types of Patio Doors For Cottages
Whether you use your cottage in the summer only, or year-round, look for energy-efficient patio doors with Energy Star ratings. These doors will keep your cottage interior comfortable year-round.
When it comes to the material of patio doors, there are many options to choose from, including hybrid materials. Ottawa patio door installation experts can help you decide which type is best for your cottage.
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- Wood: Although wood is high-maintenance, it does provide good insulation for doors and windows.
- Vinyl: Vinyl doors are practical, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is humidity resistant, which is great for cottages by the water.
- Fibreglass: Fibreglass composite doors are strong, durable, and energy-efficient.
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When in Doubt…
If your cottage patio doors need replacement, contact the pros for a patio door installation.
While some simple repairs are easy to fix on your own, a replacement door installation is best left to the pros. They can ensure your new patio doors are installed properly to provide the best insulation and protection from the outdoors for many summers to come.