How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair
Sliding patio doors are easy and beautiful, however in time, they may develop issues that make them difficult to operate. It is often the case that the problems are caused by dirty or damaged tracks or rollers. These can be repaired by cleaning them and spraying them with the lubricant WD-40.
Use your vacuum cleaner to get rid of any heavy dirt and debris. Then, scrub the track using a brush and cleaning product, while sliding the door forward and backwards periodically. In the end apply a silicone-based oil to decrease friction.
Repairing Dented Tracks
A patio door is a beautiful feature for any home, but when it stops sliding or does not open without a hitch, it can turn into an unsettling experience. The good news is that in a lot of instances, a few easy steps can help your sliding door get back to its normal operation.
Dirt in the track channels is the main reason behind a door that is stuck or difficult to move. The best method to address this is to disconnect the door from the track and wash it thoroughly. You can make use of a toothbrush to get rid of the deeper grime. After the track has been cleaned, a silicone-based grease can be applied to prevent any future issues.
Check the rollers as well for any damages or misalignments. The rollers are at the bottom of the door and help to guide it along the track. If they are damaged or not aligned properly the doors will be more difficult to move and might require replacement.
It is also important to check the tracks for bends or dents. Inward bends can bind and make the door unusable, while outward bends could cause damage to the rollers or even derail them completely. If you spot bent sections of the track you can straighten them with the help of pliers, a hammer or a block of wood. However, serious bends will likely require professional repair or even replacement.
If these easy fixes do not work, you may need to replace the track. In this instance you can purchase a kit at a variety of hardware stores to allow you to screw a new track to the existing one. These track replacement kits are available in a variety of lengths and can be cut to fit your specific doors.
It's recommended to take note of this if you notice that your track is deforming or breaking, or showing signs of wear. In most 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
In most cases the patio door that is stuck or difficult to move is due to dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris build up over time, and if the tracks are damaged or bent they might require repair or replacement by a professional to function properly. There are ways you can diagnose the problem and fix it yourself.
First, inspect the track to make sure it is not obstructed by any other factor than rust or dust. If the track is blocked by dirt, a thorough clean using a brush and mild detergent is recommended to remove the obstructions and restore smooth movement.
Next, check the rollers for any catching or sticking. A damaged or broken roller can cause the door to become stuck and cause further damage to the track that may require professional repair or replacement. If the rollers aren't damaged, you might be able solve the issue by lubricating them. Using a silicone-based lubricant can help reduce friction between the tracks and the rollers and make it easier for the door to slide.
A roller that is not aligned properly can make your sliding door stick or become difficult to operate. To fix this issue find the adjusting screw for the rollers. Adjust them until they align correctly with the track.
Another reason that can cause a stuck or hard-to-move patio door is the worn weather stripping. You can easily replace it by loosening the weather stripping at the bottom of the fixed panel as well as from the jamb with a screwdriver, then pulling the old strip away and sunking the new one.
If your track is severely bent, you should leave it to an experienced patio contractor. They can fix the issue and ensure the track is securely in place without further damage or bending. However, if your track is only slightly bent or kinked, attempt to straighten it using a pair of metal-bending pliers. If you are unable to straighten the track by yourself, use a rubber mallet and a block of wood to hit the bent section of the track until it's completely straight.
Repairing Damaged Rollers
Rollers could be the cause of noisy sliding patio doors or problems in rolling. As time passes, the rollers become stiff and filthy. This causes the door to rub the track and make noise. To resolve the issue clean the track on the bottom first before lubricating your rollers. Once the rollers are clean then you can put the door back on its tracks. This is a good moment to reconnect any clips or braces that helped to hold the door in place when it was removed from the frame.
It is best to ask a friend to assist you in lifting the sliding patio door and tilt it towards you. This will release it from the bottom track. Set the door on a stable surface, like a table or sawhorses. Remove any removable grilles shades, drapes, or shades from the doors. Remove any screws that are holding the head stop molding. (Photo 2). This step isn't required on older aluminum doors but is a good idea if you have it. Then, take out the screw for adjustment on the opposite side of the frame. This screw controls roller height. By turning it counterclockwise, you will raise the rollers and clockwise, they will lower them.
It is helpful to have a companion during this process since you'll need tools, such as a Phillips-head screwdriver and possibly pry bar or a stiff putty knife, to disconnect the rollers from the tracks. Once you have the rollers free, you can clean them by taking off the dust cap and getting rid of any debris that has accumulated on the wheel mechanisms. Then, wipe the surfaces using alcohol to get rid of any remaining dirt or residue. After the rollers have been cleaned, lubricate them with an lubricant based on silicone that repels dirt and keeps them sliding effortlessly.
Reinstall the door by placing the top part of the doors on the track, and then bringing the bottom portion in. Installing the rollers in the track frame at their highest point is important. patio doors repairs near me will allow doors to slide into place easily without rubbing on the tracks.
Repairing Damaged Wheels
A patio door often is dragging because the wheels have worn out. Replace the wheels if necessary. Also clean the tracks to stop the grit from destroying the wheels. Straighten bent tracks with pliers, or by hitting blocks of wood against the bent part using a hammer. If the wheels still wear out, try a track sill. (See Photo 5) Installation is easy and takes less than a half hour.