How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair
Patio doors that slide open are beautiful and convenient, but they can experience issues over time that make them difficult for you to use. It's often the case that these problems stem from damaged or dirty tracks or rollers, which can be fixed by cleaning and spraying with the lubricant WD-40.
Use RepairMyWindowsAndDoors to get rid of any heavy dirt and debris. Then, scrub the track using a brush and cleaning product, while sliding the door forwards and backwards often. Apply an oil-based silicone to reduce friction.
Repairing Dented Tracks
A patio door is a beautiful feature for any home, but when it stops sliding or doesn't open smoothly, it can be a frustrating experience. In most cases it is possible to bring back smooth operation to your sliding door by following a few simple instructions.
Dirt in the track channels can be a major cause of doors that are stuck or difficult to move. To get rid of this issue, you should remove the door from the track. Clean it thoroughly. You can employ a toothbrush to clean the dirt and grime that is deeper. After the track has been cleaned, a silicone-based sealant can be applied to prevent any future issues.
Also, check the rollers for damage or misalignment. The rollers are located on the bottom of the door and help to guide it along the track. If they're damaged or misaligned the doors may be difficult to move and could require replacement.
Also, you should check the tracks for bends or scratches. Bends that are inward can pinch and make the door unusable, while outward bends can cause a jolt to the rollers or even derail them completely. If you notice bent sections of the track, you can straighten them using the help of pliers, a hammer or a piece of wood. However, severe bends may require professional assistance for repair.
If these simple solutions don't work, you may have to replace the track. In this situation, you can find kits at most hardware stores that will allow you to lay a new track over the old one and then screw it in place. These track replacement kits come in a variety of lengths, and they can also be cut to fit the particular door.
It's an excellent idea to get it checked out to take note of if your track is bending or breaking, or showing signs of wear. The experts will usually be able to identify the issue and offer a safe and effective solution.
Repairing Broken Tracks
In most instances, a patio door that's stuck or difficult to move is due to dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris can accumulate over time, and if your tracks are damaged or bent, they may require professional repair or replacement to perform as they should. There are ways you can diagnose the problem and repair it yourself.
Check the track first to ensure that it isn't blocked by anything other than dust or rust. If the track is blocked by dirt, a thorough clean using a brush and mild detergent will eliminate the obstructions and bring back the smoothness of the movement.
Then, check the rollers to ensure that they are not stuck or catching. A damaged or broken door roller can cause it to become stuck. It could also cause further damage to the track that will require repair or replacement by a professional. If the rollers are not broken, you may be able to solve the issue by lubricating them. A silicone-based lubricant may help reduce friction between the track and the rollers which makes it easier for the door to slide.
A roller that is not aligned properly can cause your sliding door to stick or be difficult for you to operate. To solve this issue, locate the adjusting screws for the rollers and adjust them until they are aligned with the track.
Another common cause of a difficult-to-move or stuck patio door is worn weather stripping. You can easily replace the weather stripping by removing it from the bottom of the fixed panel and also from the jamb with a screwdriver. Then you can pull the old strip out and sink the new one.
If the track is badly bent, you should leave this to an experienced patio door contractor who can fix the issue and ensure the track is securely in place without further damage or bending. If your track is only slightly bent or kinked, attempt to straighten it using pliers that bend metal. If you are unable straighten the track by yourself, use a rubber hammer and a piece of wood. Continue to pound the bent section until it is straight.
Repairing Damaged Rollers
Rollers can be the reason behind noisy sliding patio doors or difficulty in rolling. Over time, they may become stiff and filthy. This causes the door to rub against the track and make noise. To fix the problem clean the track on the bottom first, then lubricate your rollers. When the rollers are clean and smooth, you can place the door back on its tracks. Reattach any clips or braces used to secure the door in position after it was removed from its frame.
It is recommended to have a trusted friend help you lift up the sliding patio door and then tilt it toward you. This will free it from the bottom track. Set the sliding patio door on a sturdy, flat surface such as a table or sawhorses. Remove any grilles, shades, or drapes from the doors. Remove any screws holding the head stop molding. (Photo 2). This step might not be required on some older doors made of aluminum, but it is an excellent idea in the event that you have it. Then, pull out the roller adjustment screw at each end of the frame. This screw controls roller height. By turning it counterclockwise, you will raise the rollers, and clockwise will lower them.
It is helpful to have a companion close by to assist you in disengaging the rollers. You'll need tools such as a screwdriver with Phillips heads and a pry-bar or a strong putty blade to do this. When the rollers are free and removed, remove the dust cap from the wheel mechanisms and scrub them. Then, clean the surface of the rollers using alcohol to eliminate any residue or dirt. After cleaning the rollers, you can lubricate them using a silicone-based oil to ensure that they continue to move smoothly.
Install the door by first placing the top of the door into the track, and then swinging the bottom. It is essential to reinstall the new rollers in a proper manner to ensure 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 can be worn out, which is why it sags. Replace the wheels if necessary. Clean the tracks as well to prevent grit from destroying the wheels. If the tracks are bent, straighten them using pliers or by holding the block of wood against the bent portion and pounding it with a Hammer. If the wheels are worn out, try covering the track sill. (See Photo 5) Installation is simple and takes less than a half hour.