How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair
The sliding patio doors are gorgeous and practical, however they may develop issues with time that make them difficult to operate. These problems are often caused by damaged or dirty tracks or rollers, which can be fixed with WD-40 and a thorough cleaning.
Use your vacuum cleaner to remove any heavy dirt and debris. Then scrub the track with a brush and cleaning product as you move the door backwards and forwards periodically. Apply an oil-based silicone to reduce friction.
Repairing Dented Tracks
A patio door is a stunning addition to any home but when it stops sliding or doesn't open smoothly, it can become a frustrating experience. In most cases it is possible to restore the smooth operation of your sliding door by following a few easy steps.
The main reason for a jammed or difficult to move door is the accumulation of dirt in the track channels. The best method to address this is to remove the door from the track and clean it thoroughly. You can make use of a toothbrush to get rid of the deeper grime. Once the track is clean, a silicone-based lubricant can be applied to avoid future problems.
Inspect the rollers for damage or misalignment. The rollers are situated on the bottom of the door and help to direct it along the track. If these are damaged or not aligned properly the doors will become more difficult to move and could require replacement.
It is also important to check the tracks for any bends or scratches. Bends that are inward can pinch and bind a door, whereas outward bends could throw the rollers off or even hinder them. If you spot bent sections of the track you can straighten them using pliers, a hammer, or an oversized piece of wood. However, more severe bends may require professional repair.
If these solutions don't work, you may have to replace the track. In this situation, you can find kits in a majority of hardware stores that will allow you to lay a new track over the old one and screw it into place. The track replacement kits are available in various lengths, and they can also be cut to fit the specific door.
In the end, it's recommended to speak with a professional Detroit sliding door contractor if your track is showing obvious signs of wear or breaking or bending in any way. In most cases, the professionals will be able determine the root of the issue and suggest solutions that are both safe and effective.
Repairing Broken Tracks
In many cases the patio door that is stuck or difficult to move is due to dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris can build up over time, and if tracks are damaged or bent they may require repair or replacement by a professional to perform as they should. You can identify the issue yourself and then fix it.
First, inspect the track to ensure it is not obstructed by anything other than rust or dust. If the track is obstructed by anything other than dust or rust cleaning it thoroughly with the use of a soft detergent will remove any obstructions and restore smooth movement.
Then, check the rollers to ensure they aren't stuck or catching. A damaged or broken door roller can cause it to become stuck. It can also lead to more track damage, which will require professional repair or replacement. It is possible to resolve the issue if the rollers are not damaged by lubricating the rollers. A silicone-based lubricant can reduce friction between the rollers on the track and the door.
A roller that is not aligned properly can cause your sliding door to stick or become difficult to operate. To fix this issue, find the screws for adjusting the rollers and adjust them until they are properly aligned with the track.
Another reason that can cause an unmovable or stuck patio door is worn weather stripping. You can easily replace it by loosening the weather stripping at the bottom of the fixed panel and the jamb with an screwdriver, then taking the old strip off and sunking the new one.
If the track is seriously bent, you should leave this to a professional patio door installer who can fix the issue and ensure that the track is secure in place with no further damage or bending. If your track is slightly bent or kinked, you can straighten it with a pair of metal-bending pliers. If you are unable to straighten the track on your own make use of a mallet made from rubber and a block of wood to strike the bent portion of the track until it's completely straight.
Repairing damaged Rollers
Rollers are often the reason for noisy sliding patio doors or difficulty in rolling. They may become stiff and dirty over time, causing the door to rub against the track and becomes noisy. To resolve this issue start by cleaning the track's bottom and grease the rollers to make them smoother. Once the rollers are cleaned, it is time to put the door back on its tracks. Reattach any braces or clips used to hold the door in position after it was removed from its frame.
It is best to have a trusted friend assist you in lifting up the sliding patio door and then tilt it towards you. This will release it from the bottom track. Set patio doors repairs sliding patio door on a sturdy flat surface, such as a table or sawhorses. Remove any grilles or drapes from the doors. Remove any screws holding the head stop molding. (Photo 2). This step may not be required on some older doors, but is an excellent idea 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 regulates the height of the rollers. Turning it counterclockwise will raise the rollers and clockwise, they will lower them.
It is helpful to have a companion in this process as you will need to use tools, like a Phillips-head screwdriver and possibly pry bar or stiff putty knife to disengage the rollers from the tracks. Once you have the rollers free they can be cleaned by removing the dust cap and getting rid of any debris that has accumulated on the wheel mechanisms. Clean the surface of the rollers with alcohol to remove any residue or dirt. Once the rollers are cleaned, lubricate them with an lubricant made of silicone that smothers dirt and helps keep them moving smoothly.
Install the door by putting the top portion of the doors into the track and then swinging the bottom portion in. Reinstalling the rollers in the track frame at their highest point is important. This will allow doors to slide into place effortlessly, without rubbing the tracks.
Repairing Damaged Wheels
Most often, a patio door is dragging because the wheels are worn out. Replace the wheels as needed. Also, clean the tracks to stop grit from grinding away the wheels. If the tracks are bent, straighten them with pliers or by putting the block of wood against the bent portion and pounding it with a hammer. If the wheels are still worn, consider an edging cover for the track. (See Photo 5) Installation is easy and takes less than an hour.