How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair

The sliding patio doors are gorgeous and convenient, but they can develop problems with time that make them difficult to use. It's often the case that these issues are caused by dirty or damaged tracks or rollers, which can be repaired by cleaning and spraying with an oil-based lubricant such as WD-40.

Make use of your vacuum cleaner to clean any large amounts of dirt and other debris. Then scrub the track with brushes and cleaning products as you move the door forward and backwards often. In the end apply a silicone-based lubricant to reduce friction.

Repairing Dented Tracks

A patio door glass repair near me door is a stunning feature for any home, but when it stops sliding or does not open without a hitch, it can turn into a frustrating experience. In most cases, you can restore the smooth operation of your sliding door by following a few simple steps.

A major cause of stuck or difficult to move door is a build-up of dirt in the track channels. The best method to address this is to detach the door from the track and clean it thoroughly. You can employ a toothbrush to clean the dirt and grime that is deeper. Once the track is cleaned, a silicone-based grease can be applied to prevent future problems.

It is also essential to inspect the rollers for any damage or misalignment. The rollers are located at the bottom of the doors and direct them along the track. If they are damaged or misaligned, the doors will be more difficult to move and may require replacement.

Check the tracks visually to look for any bends or scratches. Bends that are inward can pinch and restrict the door, whereas outward bends can cause a jolt to the rollers, or even derail them completely. If you spot bent sections of the track, you can straighten them using the help of pliers, a hammer or a piece of wood. However, more severe bends may require professional assistance for repair.

If these easy solutions don't work then you may need to replace the entire track. In this instance you can purchase kits in most hardware stores that allow you to screw a new track onto the existing one. Track replacement kits are available in several lengths and can be cut to fit your specific doors.

Lastly, it's an excellent idea to call a professional Detroit sliding door contractor if your track is showing significant signs of wear or is breaking or bending in a certain way. In most cases, professionals will be able identify the cause of the issue and recommend an option that is safe and effective.

Repairing Broken Tracks

In many instances the patio door repairs near me door that is stuck or difficult to move is the result of dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris can accumulate over time, and if tracks are damaged or bent they may require repair or replacement by a professional to function properly. Fortunately, there are ways you can identify the issue and fix it yourself.

First, check the track to make sure it's not blocked by anything other than rust or dust. If the track is obstructed by something other than rust or dust cleaning it thoroughly with a brush using mild detergent can remove any obstructions and restore smooth movement.

Next, check the rollers for any signs of catching or sticking. A broken or faulty roller could cause the door to snag and may cause damage to the track, that may require professional repair or replacement. If the rollers are not broken, you may be able to resolve the issue by lubricating them. Utilizing a silicone-based lubricant could help reduce friction between the rollers and the track which makes it easier for the door to slide.

A roller that is not aligned properly can cause your sliding door to stick or become difficult to operate. To solve this issue, locate the screws that adjust the rollers and adjust them until they are properly aligned with the track.

Another common cause of an unmovable or stuck patio door is the worn weather stripping. You can easily replace the weather stripping by removing it from the bottom of the fixed panel and then from the jamb by using an screwdriver. Then you can pull the old strip away and install the new one.

If the track is seriously bent, you should leave it to an experienced patio door contractor who will fix the problem and make sure the track is securely in place without more damage or bending. However, if the track is just slightly bent or kinked, you may try to straighten it using pliers that bend metal. If you're unable to straighten the track yourself make use of a rubber hammer and a piece of wood. Continue to hit the bent section until it is straight.

Repairing damaged Rollers

Rollers can be the cause of noisy sliding patio doors or difficulty in rolling. As time passes, the rollers become stiff and dirty. This causes the door to rub the track, causing noise. To fix this problem first, clean the bottom track and then grease the rollers to smooth them back. When the rollers are clean then you can put the door back on its tracks. Reattach any clips or braces used to keep the door in place after it was removed from its frame.

Sliding patio doors are generally heavy, so it's best to have a friend help you lift the door up and then tilt it toward you to lift it off the bottom track. Set the door on a stable surface, like a table or sawhorses. Remove any grilles shades, drapes, or shades from the doors. Remove any screws that are holding the head stop molding. (Photo 2). This step might not be required on older doors, but is recommended in the event that you have it. Remove the screws that adjust the height of rollers at both sides of the door frame. This screw controls the height of the rollers by turning it clockwise. This lowers the rollers and counterclockwise raises them.

It is beneficial to have a friend nearby to help you disengage the rollers. You will need tools like an screwdriver with a Phillips head and possibly a pry-bar or a strong putty blade for this. Once the rollers are free and removed, remove the dust cap from the wheel mechanisms and scrub them. Then, wipe the roller surfaces down with alcohol to remove any remaining dirt or residue. After the rollers are cleaned, apply lubrication using a silicone-based lubricant that resists dirt and keeps them moving effortlessly.

Install the door by first putting the top of the door onto the track, then swinging it in the bottom. It is crucial to install the new rollers in a proper manner, so that they are at their highest point inside the track frame. This will allow the door to slide effortlessly into place without rubbing against the tracks.

Repairing Damaged Wheels

The wheels of a patio door may be worn out, and that's why it drags. Examine the wheels of both sets and replace them if necessary. Also clean the tracks to prevent the grit from damaging the wheels. Straighten bent tracks by using pliers, or by hitting blocks of wood against the bent area using a hammer. If the wheels are worn out, try an edging cover for the track. (See Photo 5) Installation is easy and takes less than a half hour.