How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair
The sliding patio doors are gorgeous and convenient, but they may develop issues in time, making them difficult to use. These issues are typically caused by dirty or damaged tracks or rollers. They can be fixed using WD-40 and a thorough cleaning.
Suck up any heavy dirt or debris using a vacuum cleaner, then scrub the track with a brush and cleaning solution, as you move the door back and forward. Apply an oil-based silicone to reduce friction.
Repairing Dented Tracks
A patio door is a beautiful feature for any home, but when it isn't able to open or slide smoothly, it can be a frustrating experience. In patio glass door repair is possible to restore smooth operation to your sliding door by following a few simple instructions.
Dirt in the track channels can be one of the major causes for a door that is stuck or is difficult to move. The best way to fix this is to remove the door from the track and clean it thoroughly. To remove the more soiled grime, you can use a toothbrush or similar device to dislodge it. Once the track is clean, a silicone-based lubricant 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 help guide them along the track. If they're damaged or misaligned, the doors might be difficult to move and may require replacement.
Check the tracks visually to find any bends or scratches. Inward bends can bind and make the door unusable, while outward bends can throw off the rollers, or even derail them completely. If you notice bent tracks, you can try to straighten them using a set of pliers or a hammer and block of wood. However, severe bends may require professional repairs or replacement.
If these easy fixes don't work, you may have to replace the track. In this instance you can purchase a kit in most hardware stores that enable you to attach a new track onto the old one. The track replacement kits are available in various lengths and can be cut to fit your specific doors.
In the end, it's recommended to speak with a professional Detroit sliding door contractor when your track is showing obvious wear or is bending or breaking in some way. The professionals are able to spot the issue and offer a safe and effective solution.
Repairing Broken Tracks
Damage or dirt to the track could cause the patio door to become stuck or difficult to open. Dirt and debris can accumulate over time, and if your tracks are damaged or bent they might require professional repair or replacement to perform as they should. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to diagnose the problem and fix it yourself.
Examine the track first to make sure it's not blocked by anything other than rust or dust. If the track is blocked by anything other than rust or dust, a thorough clean with the use of a soft detergent can remove any obstructions and allow for smooth movement.
Then, examine the rollers to ensure they are not catching or sticking. A damaged or broken door roller could cause it to stick. It could also result in more track damage that requires professional repair or replacement. You could be able to solve the problem if the rollers are not damaged by lubricating the rollers. 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 misaligned roller can also cause your sliding door to become stuck or become difficult to operate. To fix this problem find the adjusting screw for the rollers. Adjust them until they are aligned properly with the track.
Weather stripping that is damaged can cause patio doors to be stuck or difficult to move. You can replace this yourself by loosening the weather stripping from the bottom of the fixed panel and from the jamb with a screwdriver, then pulling the old strip and sunking the new one.
If the track is seriously bent, it's best to leave it to an experienced patio door contractor who will fix the issue and ensure the track is securely in place with no further damage or bending. However, if your track is just slightly bent or kinked, you may attempt to straighten it using a pair of metal-bending pliers. If you're unable to straighten the track on your own, use a rubber hammer and a piece of wood. Continue to hit the bent section until it is straight.
Repairing damaged Rollers
If your sliding patio door is loud or difficult to roll, the culprit could be due to your rollers. They may become dirty and stiff with time, which causes the door to be pushed against the track, and then become noisy. To resolve the issue, clean the bottom track first and then lubricate your rollers. Once the rollers have been cleaned, you can place the door on its tracks. Reattach any clips or braces used to keep the door in place after it was taken from its frame.
It is recommended to have a trusted friend assist you in lifting the sliding patio door and then tilt it toward you. This will lift it from the bottom track. Set the sliding patio door on a sturdy flat surface like tables or sawhorses. Remove any grilles that are removable or shades from the doors. Remove any screws that hold the head stop molding (Photo 2). This step may not be required on some older aluminum doors but is recommended to do it if you have it. Then, take out the roller adjustment screw at each end of the frame. This screw controls the height of the rollers; turning it clockwise lowers the rollers, while turning it counterclockwise raises them.
It is beneficial to have someone nearby to help you disengage the rollers. You will need tools like an screwdriver with Phillips head, and possibly a pry-bar or a strong putty blade for this. Once you have the rollers free they can be cleaned by removing the dust cap and taking out any debris from the wheel mechanisms. Then, wipe the surfaces down with alcohol to remove any residue or dirt that remains. After the rollers have been cleaned, lubricate them with a silicone-based lubricant that resists dirt and keeps them sliding smoothly.
Reinstall the door by placing the top portion of the doors into the track and then moving the bottom part of the door in. Reinstalling the rollers in the track frame at their highest points is essential. This will allow the door to slide easily into place without hitting the tracks.
Repairing damaged wheels
A patio door often is dragging because the wheels are worn out. Replace the wheels if necessary. Also, clean the tracks to prevent the grit from damaging the wheels. If the tracks are bent, straighten them using pliers or by putting an object of wood against the bent area and hitting it with the Hammer. If the tracks are worn, consider a track sill cover. (See Photo 5) Installation is simple and takes less than an hour.