How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair

Sliding patio door are beautiful and convenient, but they can develop problems in time, making them difficult to operate. It's often the case that the problems are caused by dirty or damaged rollers or tracks, which can be fixed by cleaning them and spraying them with a lubricant like WD-40.

Suck up any heavy dirt or debris using a vacuum cleaner Then scrub the track with a brush and cleaning solution, while moving the door back and forth. Finally, apply a silicone-based lubricant to reduce friction.

Repairing Dented Tracks

A patio door can be a gorgeous addition to any home but when it stops sliding or does not open smoothly, it can be an unsettling experience. The good thing is that in many instances, a few easy steps can allow your sliding door to return to smooth operation.

Dirt in the track channels is a major cause of the door becoming stuck or difficult to move. To fix this, you should take the door off the track. 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 oil can be applied to stop future problems.

Also, check the rollers for any damages or misalignments. The rollers sit at the bottom of the doors and direct them along the track. If they are damaged or not aligned properly the doors will become more difficult to move and may require replacement.

It is also important to check the tracks for any bends or damage. Inward bends can bind and make the door unusable, while outward bends can throw off the rollers or even destroy them completely. If you notice any bent sections of the track, you can try to straighten them using pliers or a hammer with a block of wood. However, more severe bends may require professional repairs or replacement.

If these fixes don't work then you may need to replace the entire track. In this case you can find track replacement kits in a majority of hardware stores that will allow you to lay a brand new track over the old one and then screw it into place. The track replacement kits are available in various lengths, and they can also be cut to fit the specific door.

Lastly, it's recommended to speak with a professional Detroit sliding door contractor in the event that your track is showing obvious signs of wear or is breaking or bending in a certain way. In the majority of cases, professionals will be able to determine the root of the issue and suggest a solution that is both secure and efficient.

Repairing Broken Tracks

Damage or dirt to the track could cause the door to become stuck or difficult to open. Dirt and debris build up over time, and if your tracks are damaged or bent they may require professional repair or replacement to perform as they should. You can diagnose the problem yourself and fix it.

First, inspect the track to make sure it is not obstructed by anything other than rust or dust. If the track is obstructed, a thorough cleaning with a brush and mild detergent is recommended to eliminate the obstructions and bring back smooth movement.

Then, examine the rollers for any catching or sticking. A broken or faulty door roller can cause it to stick. It could also cause further track damage that requires professional repair or replacement. If the rollers aren't damaged, you may be able solve the problem by lubricating them. Using a silicone-based lubricant can help reduce friction between the track and the rollers which makes it easier for the door to slide.

A door roller that isn't aligned correctly can cause your sliding door to become stuck or be difficult for you to operate. To correct this issue, locate the adjusting screw for the rollers. Adjust them until they align properly with the track.

Another common cause of a stuck or hard-to-move patio door glass repair near me door is worn weather stripping. You can easily replace it by removing the weather stripping at the bottom of the fixed panel and the jamb using the help of a screwdriver, and then removing the old strip off and sunking the new one.

If the track is severely bent, you should let an experienced patio doors repairs near me door contractor who can fix the issue and ensure the track is secured safely in place, without more damage or bending. However, if your track is just slightly bent or kinked, you can try to straighten it with pliers that bend metal. If you're unable to straighten the track by yourself using a mallet made of rubber and a piece of wood to strike the bent portion of the track until it is completely straight.

Repairing damaged Rollers

If your sliding patio door is a bit noisy or difficult to roll, the reason could be the rollers. They may become dirty and stiff over time, causing the door to slide against the track and becomes noisy. To solve this issue start by cleaning the bottom track and then grease the rollers so that they make them smooth again. Once the rollers are clean and smooth, you can place the door back on its tracks. This is the ideal time to reattach any clips or braces that held the door in place after it was removed from the frame.

The sliding patio doors are typically heavy, so it is recommended to have a partner assist you in lifting the door and tilt it towards you to let it go off the bottom track. Set the sliding patio sliding doors repair door on a sturdy flat surface like a sawhorses or table. Remove any grilles shades, drapes, or shades from the doors. Remove any screws that are holding the head stop molding (Photo 2). On some older aluminum doors, this step is not required, but it's a good thing to do if you've got one. Remove the screws for adjustment of the rollers on both ends of the door frame. This screw regulates the height of the rollers. By turning it counterclockwise, you will raise the rollers, and clockwise will lower them.

Having a friend available helps in this process as you'll need tools, like a Phillips-head screwdriver and possibly pry bar or a stiff putty knife to remove the rollers from the tracks. When the rollers are free, remove the dust cap from the wheel mechanisms and scrub them. Clean the roller surfaces with alcohol to remove any residue or dirt. After the rollers are cleaned, lubricate them with an lubricant based on silicone that repels dirt and helps keep them moving smoothly.

Install the door by first putting the top of the door in the track, and then swinging in the bottom. Installing the rollers in the frame of the track at the highest point is crucial. This will allow the door to slide easily into place without rubbing against the tracks.

Repairing damaged wheels

A patio door often is dragging because the wheels have worn out. Examine both sets of wheels and replace them if needed. Clean the tracks too to stop grit from damaging the wheels. If the tracks are bent, straighten them with pliers or by putting a block of wood against the bent portion and hitting it with a Hammer. If the wheels continue to wear out, try the track sill. (See Photo 5) Installation is easy and takes less than a half hour.