Undoubtedly, aluminum is one of the most stable and robust building materials. In many cases, simple hardware repairs (such as fixing hinges, handles, or opening and closing mechanisms) or minor modifications can prevent further door failure and wear.
Minor aluminum door repairs can often address common issues, such as difficulty engaging with the latch or lock, hard-to-open doors, slamming shut too quickly, or the door dropping or catching (which can cause floor damage).
Below, you’ll learn more about how to fix issues with aluminum doors and frames.
Troubleshooting Aluminum Doors: Solutions for Common Issues
Aluminum doors are one of the most popular door types, frequently used in commercial and residential buildings due to their durability and low-maintenance requirements. However, much like other doors, they may eventually run into problems like:
Scuffs and dents
Accidental collisions or bumps on aluminum doors (that lead to dents and scratches) are the most common problems that property owners have to deal with. Immediately fixing the issues is the best solution to avoid further harm and damage.
Rust
Another frequent issue concerning residential or commercial aluminum door repairs is rust. Exposure to humidity or moisture is a vital source of this. After noticing the rust on your door, remove it, then apply a new paint coat or sealant.
Warping
Extreme fluctuations in humidity and temperature are common causes of warping in aluminum doors. This occurs when the material expands or contracts due to moisture or temperature changes, causing the door to lose its original shape. To address warping, it's essential to first identify the severity of the issue. For minor warping, you may be able to correct it by gently applying heat and pressure, which can help return the door to its original position. In more severe cases, you may need to remove the door, place it on a flat surface, and use a clamp or other tools to straighten it. If warping is extensive or persistent, replacing the door or seeking professional repair may be necessary to restore functionality and prevent further damage
Read More: Aluminum Door Frame Repair
How to Replace Glass in an Aluminum Door?
Replacing glass in aluminum doors is a quick and easy process that only requires a couple of essential tools. Here are all the tools you need:
- A utility knife with a sharp blade.
- Philips screwdrivers or power drill
- Safety gloves
- Safety glasses
It is also a good idea to ask a friend, family member, or neighbor to help with this project. Having an extra set of hands can always avoid potential damage to the new glass.
Pro Tip:
If your broken glass is still intact, we recommend using duct tape or packing tape to laminate the entire broken surface. During the removal process, this can prevent broken chips from falling out.
Steps for Aluminum Glass Door Repairs
- Step 1: Use screwdrivers (or a power drill) to remove screws from the entire frame. Ensure safety during this step.
- Step 2: Have a partner stand on the outside for assistance.
- Step 3: Score the paint line with a knife to loosen old adhesives, then remove the door glass.
- Step 4: Use a knife to clear any remaining adhesive from the frame.
- Step 5: With your partner’s help, place the new door glass into the opening from the outside.
- Step 6: Install the inside frame using the screws. Be cautious not to overtighten.
- Step 7: Install screw covers.
- Step 8: Clean the new door glass with your preferred window cleaner.
Read More: Aluminum Door Repair In Mississauga
How to Remove Scratches from Aluminum Doors?
There are two easy ways to remove the scratches from aluminum doors & frames.
- The best way to remove the light scratches and scuffs is to use a scouring pad to rub over the scuffed area gently.
- Spray WD-40 on the affected area for more severe scratches, then use 220-grit sandpaper to remove the scratches. To smooth out the scuffed area, proceed with 1500-grit and 3000-grit sandpaper.
Regardless of the technique you select for aluminum door repair, make sure to give the area extra shine and protection by applying metal polish or sealant.
Aluminum Door Service Offered by EsnaGlass
Here are some aluminum door services we offer:
Aluminum Door Lock Repair
It’s not always necessary to replace an aluminum door when its lock malfunctions. You can save both time and money by:
- Adjusting and servicing the mechanism
- Replacing damaged parts
- Installing new handles
- Conducting a thorough cleaning and alignment check
Over time, aluminum doors can experience issues such as stiffness, wear, misalignment, seized mechanisms, or even complete failure, which can make them difficult or impossible to open and close.
Here are the locksmith services we offer for aluminum door repair:
- Repair sticky locking systems
- Upgrade and repair locks
- Install additional locks
- Replace broken locks
- Replace damaged door handles
- Repair or replace multi-point locks
- Adjust dropped doors
Read More: Aluminum Door Lock
Aluminum Door Hinge Repair
To repair an aluminum door hinge, start by inspecting for loose screws, rust, or misalignment. Tighten any loose screws and replace damaged ones with longer or heavier-duty screws if necessary. If the hinge is squeaky or stiff, apply a lubricant like WD-40 or silicone spray to ensure smooth movement.
For more severe issues, such as a bent or broken hinge, remove the damaged hinge and replace it with a new one. Ensure the new hinge aligns properly with the door frame for smooth operation. If the door is sagging, consider adding shims or reinforcing the hinge area for better support.
Swing Door Repair
To repair a swing door, first, check for misalignment, loose hinges, or worn-out hardware. Tighten any loose screws and lubricate the hinges to ensure smooth operation. If the door drags on the floor, adjust the hinges or trim the bottom slightly.
For automatic swing door repair, inspect the closer mechanism, replace worn-out seals, and ensure sensors function correctly. If the door doesn't close properly, adjusting the tension on the door closer can help. For severe issues, replacing faulty parts or consulting a professional may be necessary.
Other Aluminum Door Services We Provide
- Upgrade and replace lock barrels.
- Install additional locks and security, such as security chains and spy holes.
- Repair and replace all styles of door handles, either to repair broken ones or to upgrade them to more secure and modern products.
Read More: Aluminum Door Maintenance
Why EsnaGlass for Aluminum Door Repairs?
For emergency aluminum door repairs resulting from break-ins, burglaries, or similar issues, contact our expert EsnaGlass technicians.
We specialize in replacing or repairing any part of your aluminum swing or sliding door system, including:
- Door closers
- Automated door operators and safety/activation mechanisms
- Floor springs
- Aluminum door locks and latches
- Aluminum sliding door hinges
- Aluminum door handles
- Aluminum door frames and screens
We serve both small and large clients across various sectors, including commercial, residential, retail, leisure, healthcare, and education. Our same-day solutions address any aluminum door repair or access issues promptly.
Our aluminum door installers come fully equipped with a complete inventory of commonly used spare parts from trusted manufacturers. With extensive experience, our team successfully resolves 90% of door repair calls on the first visit. If a repair cannot be completed on the spot, the door will be secured, and we will provide a detailed report and quote for completing the work to restore your door to its original condition.
You don’t need a service or maintenance contract to access our emergency callouts and discounted repair services.
Expect the following from us:
- Fully stocked vehicles
- Guaranteed prompt response
- Exceptional first-time fix rate
- Knowledgeable and professional door technicians
- Locally-based, empowered teams
- Fast turnaround times for explanations and solutions
FAQs
If the door is warped or cracked, use a jigsaw to remove the damaged section and replace it with a new piece of aluminum. Smooth the edges with sandpaper to ensure the new piece blends seamlessly with the rest of the door. Finish by applying a coat of primer before beginning the repair.
Minor damage to an aluminum panel can be easily repaired if there's backside access. However, if the damage is along a body line or crown, the repair may not be feasible.
Loose or worn hinges are often the culprit. Tighten any loose screws, and if the hinges are damaged, replace them with new ones. This simple fix can make a significant difference. If tightening the hinges doesn't resolve the issue, you may need to adjust the door closer.
- Tighten the screws.
- Replace or upgrade screws if necessary.
- Adjust the hinges.
- Add or remove shims as needed.
- Check and realign the latch or strike plate.
- Install a new hinge if required.
- Sand the door for a smooth finish.
