How To Adjust Patio Doors That Have Dropped

If your patio doors are sticking, dragging, or not closing properly, chances are they have dropped slightly over time. This is a common issue, particularly with uPVC doors, but the good news is that it’s usually straightforward to fix. Adjusting the hinges correctly can restore smooth operation and ensure the door is properly aligned.

This guide will take you through the step-by-step process of how to adjust a dropped uPVC door, helping you avoid unnecessary wear and tear while maintaining energy efficiency.

Why Do Patio Doors Drop?

Dropped patio doors are often caused by factors such as:

• Natural settling of the building over time
• Frequent use leading to gradual misalignment
• Incorrect installation or loose hinge screws
• Warped uPVC door frames due to temperature changes

When a door is misaligned, you may notice gaps where the door meets the frame, difficulty locking it, or the doors not closing properly. Addressing these common uPVC door issues early can prevent further damage.

Identifying the Type of Hinges on Your Patio Doors

Before adjusting your uPVC door hinges, you need to identify the type of hinges installed. Patio doors commonly feature:

• Butt hinges – Found on older uPVC doors, allowing basic vertical and lateral adjustments.
• Flag hinges – More common on newer uPVC doors, providing lateral, vertical, and compression adjustments.
• T-hinges – Typically used for heavier composite doors, offering similar adjustability to flag hinges.
• Lift-off hinges – Allow doors to be removed entirely, often seen on external doors.

Tools You’ll Need

To adjust your patio doors, you will require:

• An Allen key (typically 4mm or 5mm)
• A screwdriver
• A spirit level
• Lubricant (optional, to prevent future stiffness)

How To Adjust Your Patio Doors: Your Step By Step Guide

1. Check Door Alignment

First, determine where the misalignment is occurring. Open and close the door, observing if it catches at the top and bottom edges or scrapes against the door frame. If the door side is not hanging evenly, it likely needs vertical or lateral adjustments.

2. Adjust The Hinges

Once you’ve identified the issue, locate the adjustment screws. Most uPVC door hinges have three main adjustments:

• Vertical adjustment – Moves the door up or down.
• Lateral adjustment – Moves the door side-to-side.
• Compression adjustment – Affects how tightly the door seals against the frame.

Adjusting Butt Hinges

1. Remove the top cover cap from each hinge.
2. Locate the vertical adjustment screw at the bottom of the hinge.
3. Use an Allen key to turn the screw clockwise to lift the door or anticlockwise to lower it.
4. If the door is catching on one side, adjust the lateral adjustment screw by turning it slightly to move the door left or right.
5. Test the door alignment and repeat if necessary.

Adjusting Flag Hinges

1. Remove the cover cap to expose the adjustment screws.
2. Use an Allen key to adjust the vertical movement by turning the top hinge screw.
3. Adjust the lateral adjustment screw to shift the door side-to-side.
4. If needed, tighten the hinge pin to ensure stability.
5. Close the door to check if it now sits properly aligned.

Adjusting T-Hinges

1. Locate the two adjustment screws on the hinge side.
2. Turn the lateral and vertical adjustment screws carefully to align the door evenly.
3. Check the door hangs evenly and make further small adjustments if necessary.

3. Test the Door and Make Final Adjustments

After adjusting the hinges, open and close the door a few times. Ensure the door opens smoothly, meets the frame correctly, and doesn’t catch on any edges. If it still seems misaligned, fine-tune the hinge screws until the door is in the desired position.

Preventing Future Misalignment

To keep your patio doors in good shape:

• Regularly check hinge screws for tightness
• Avoid slamming the door or putting excessive pressure on the hinges
• Ensure the door is installed correctly from the outset
• Lubricate moving parts periodically to prevent stiffness

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve followed this guide and the door is still misaligned, it might indicate a more serious issue, such as a warped uPVC door or problems with the door frame. In such cases, consulting a door professional can help determine whether adjustments will suffice or they can give advice on how to install new patio doors.

Are Dropped Patio Doors A Serious Issue?

A misaligned door may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can lead to bigger problems if left unaddressed. One of the main concerns is that a uPVC door misaligned with the frame won’t seal properly, reducing its energy efficient properties. Gaps between the door and the frame allow draughts to enter, leading to higher heating costs and less effective insulation.

Additionally, misalignment puts extra strain on the hinges, potentially causing further wear over time. This can make it increasingly difficult to adjust uPVC door hinges and could even lead to permanent damage requiring a full door replacement. Fixing alignment issues early ensures your patio doors remain functional, secure, and energy efficient for years to come.

Looking for Modern Patio Door Options?

DoorsDirect2U have over 40 years of experience providing exterior and interior door solutions to suit all budgets and specifications. You can purchase with confidence safe in the knowledge all products are backed with a manufacturers guarantee.

Shop all Patio Doors Now!

How To Adjust Patio Doors That Have Dropped FAQs