Patio doors. Care & Maintenance

Operating your Patio Door

Your sliding patio door is designed with a locking handle for easy operation and security, The handle should be used at all times to properly open and close the operating door panel. The finger operated toggle switch located on the handle is used to prevent the door from opening. Therefore, by moving the panel to its fully closed position, and moving the toggle button to its opposite position, the latch mechanism will engage the jamb and secure the operating panel. Your door may also come with an optional trailing spring-loaded lock located on the center rail at either the sill or head position of the door. This is a simple trigger-operating device that offers additional security. Make sure you disengage and engage when the sliding panel is in a stationary position, otherwise you could damage the keeper or throw bolt if it is prematurely activated.

Cleaning your Screen

Your sliding patio door comes complete with a sliding screen. To clean your screen, remove it and lay it down on a flat surface. Apply a cleaning solution to the screen and let it soak for a minute. Rinse the screen using a garden hose, or other low-pressure spray.The operating panels of your patio door are equipped with rollers that move horizontally along a sill track. These tracks are exposed to outside elements and can collect dust, dirt, and debris. A semi-annual cleaning is recommended to prevent this material from disturbing the proper operation of your door. The roller mechanisms are self-lubricating – no additional lubrication is required. Your patio door is equipped with adjustable rollers to ensure proper installation and operation. If your patio door becomes difficult to operate, even after you have completed all of the above care and cleaning guidelines, do not attempt to adjust the rollers. You should contact your installer.

Cleaning Glass Surfaces

Apply a mild soap to the glass using a clean, grit-free cloth or sponge saturated with cleaning solution. Avoid using alcohol based cleaners and ammonia, which can cause streaking. Be careful not to damage glazing, frame finish, or insulating unit seals by overgenerous application of cleaners. Follow the cleaning solution manufacturer’s directions on the label for toxicity, handling, and flammability warnings. Wipe the cleaning solution on the glass in a circular motion, applying light to moderate pressure. If streaks appear, rinse the glass surface with clean water. Using a clean, lint-free cloth, wipe the interior glazing surfaces dry, including any interior frame or hardware components. This will prevent spotting or water damage.

Cleaning Exterior Frames

The exterior surfaces of your patio door frame may collect a layer of surface dirt over time, depending on your local environment conditions. Under most conditions, occasional rainfall should be sufficient to remove accumulated dirt on exterior surfaces. However, in conditions with smog, excess smoke or dirt, the exterior surfaces should be cleaned more regularly to prevent damage to exterior finishes and discoloration. Use a mild soap or diluted cleaning solution with clean, warm water, and wipe surfaces gently using a clean cloth, or pressure spray cleaner. Rinse surfaces thoroughly with clean water before soap or detergent dries.