Patio doors: Proper maintenance for better durability

Patio doors: Proper maintenance for better durability

It’s no secret: If you want your patio door to stay in top shape for the long haul, you need to stay on top of maintaining it. The good news is that with these tips from our team, it’ll take you no time at all.


As warmer weather arrives, so does the urge to do a deep spring cleaning! Why not start with the patio door? It’s soon to be seeing a lot more traffic from the whole household! Even when you choose a model that stands out for its high-quality construction, regular maintenance is the best way to keep your door clean and in good working order for many summers to come.

6 simple steps for effective maintenance

Depending on how much back and forth your patio door sees, it’s a good idea to repeat these steps once or twice a year (with the exception of window washing, which you can keep up with as needed). Early spring and late fall are the best times to tackle these chores.

  • Remove dust and grime from the sill track
    First, use your vacuum cleaner and a damp cloth to remove any dirt and debris. Pay particular attention to corners where dirt tends to build up, causing unwanted discolouration. This step can be repeated frequently, as part of your regular housekeeping tasks.
  • Clean the frames and the handle
    Whether your patio door is made of aluminum or PVC, use a mild all-purpose soap to clean the frames, handle and other visible parts of the structure. Make sure to avoid using corrosive products—they can damage the finish.
  • poignee-handle
  • Lubricate the track and check the handle
    Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the track to keep the door sliding smoothly. This will keep your hardware in good working order and extend its lifespan. Important note: Oil-based lubricants should be avoided at all costs. Next, check to ensure the handle is still firmly attached by tightening the screws that hold it in place on the inside.
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  • Check the silicone seals
    If they are generally in good condition, you can simply clean them with a cloth and mild soap. But if you notice signs of wear or aging, it’s important to remove any damaged seals and replace them to ensure your door closes properly.
  • screen
  • Replace the screen and make adjustments
    To prevent your screen from sagging and aging before its time, we strongly recommend removing it during the winter. When spring comes, give it a cleaning with a damp cloth or the garden hose, then put it back in place, making sure it fits properly. To keep it moving smoothly, use a screwdriver to tighten or loosen the rollers at the bottom of the screen door as needed.
  • Wash the windows
    Last but not least (after all, don’t we have glass patio doors to admire the view!): washing the windows! You can use a cleaning product specifically designed for this purpose, or the classic homemade mixture of water and vinegar for an eco-friendly and economical solution. The perfect way to get those windows sparkling again!

Now that your patio door is clean, check out our top tips for getting your balcony ready for summer in 5 easy steps!