How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair

patio glass door repair near me doors that slide open are beautiful and convenient, but they may develop issues over time that make them difficult to operate. The majority of the time, these problems stem from dirty or damaged tracks or rollers. These can be fixed by cleaning and spraying the lubricant WD-40.

Clean up any heavy dirt or debris with your vacuum cleaner, then scrub the track with a brush and cleaning solution, as you move the door back and forth. Apply a silicone-based grease to decrease friction.

Repairing Dented Tracks

A patio door lock repair door is a beautiful feature for any home, but when it stops sliding or does not open smoothly, it can become a frustrating experience. In many instances you can bring back the smooth operation of your sliding door by following a few easy steps.

Dirt in the track channels can be a major cause of a door that is stuck or is difficult to move. The best method to address this is to disconnect the door from the track and clean it thoroughly. To get to the deeper dirt, you can use a toothbrush or similar tool to remove it. Once the track has been cleaned, a silicone-based oil can be applied to stop future problems.

It's also important to check the rollers for any damage or misalignment. The rollers are situated on the bottom of the door and assist to guide it along the track. If these are damaged or misaligned the doors will be more difficult to move and may require replacement.

You should also visually inspect the tracks for bends or dents. Inward bends can bind and restrict the door, whereas outward bends could cause damage to the rollers or even derail them completely. If you notice bent areas of the track you can straighten them by using pliers, a hammer, or an oversized piece of wood patio door repair. However, severe bends may require professional repair.

If these easy fixes don't work, you might need to replace the track. In this situation you can purchase kits at most hardware stores to allow you to screw a new track to the existing one. The track replacement kits are available in a variety of lengths and can be cut to fit the particular door.

Lastly, it's an excellent idea to call an experienced Detroit sliding door repairman if your track is showing major signs of wear or is breaking or bending in any way. In most cases, professionals will be able determine the root cause of the issue and recommend solutions that are both safe and effective.

Repairing Broken Tracks

In most instances the double glazed patio door repairs door that is stuck or difficult to move is caused by dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris can build up over time, and if your tracks are damaged or bent, they may require repair or replacement by a professional to work properly. There are ways you can determine the issue and fix it yourself.

Check the track first to make sure it's not blocked by anything other than dust or rust. If the track is obstructed by dirt, a thorough clean using a brush and mild detergent is recommended to eliminate the obstructions and bring back the smoothness of the movement.

Next, check the rollers for any issues with catching or sticking. A broken or faulty door roller can cause it to become stuck. It could also cause further track damage, which will require professional repair or replacement. If the rollers aren't damaged, you might be able to solve the issue by lubricating them. A silicone-based lubricant can reduce friction between the rollers on the track and the door.

A roller that is not aligned properly could cause the sliding door to stick or be difficult for you to operate. To fix this issue find the adjustment screw for the rollers. Adjust them until they align correctly with the track.

Another reason that can cause a difficult-to-move or stuck patio door is worn weather stripping. It is easy to replace the weather stripping by taking it from the bottom panel of the fixed panel, and then from the jamb by using an screwdriver. Then, you can take the old strip off and install the new one in.

If the track is severely bent, it's best to let a professional patio door installer, who can correct the problem and make sure 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 yourself using a hammer made of rubber and a piece of wood. Continue to pound 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 the rollers. Over time, they may become stiff and dirty. This causes the door to rub the track, causing noise. To solve this issue first, clean the track's bottom and lubricate the rollers to make them smoother. When the rollers are clean and smooth, you can place the door back on its tracks. This is the perfect moment to reconnect any clips or braces that kept the door in place while it was removed from the frame.

The sliding patio doors are typically heavy, so it is recommended to have a friend assist you in lifting the door up and then tilt it toward you to lift it off the bottom track. Set the sliding patio door on a sturdy flat surface, such as a table or sawhorses. Remove any grilles, or shades from the doors. Remove any screws that are holding the head stop molding (Photo 2). On older doors made of aluminum, this step is not mandatory, but it's something you should take if you have one. Then, take off the screws for adjustment of the rollers on both sides of the frame. This screw regulates the height of the rollers; turning it clockwise lowers the rollers while turning it counterclockwise raises them.

Having a friend available helps in this process as you will require tools, like an Phillips-head screwdriver or a pry bar or stiff putty knife to remove the rollers from the tracks. After the rollers have been removed from the dust cap, take them away from the wheel mechanism and scrub them. Then, wipe the surfaces down using alcohol to get rid of any residue or dirt that remains. After cleaning the rollers, apply lubrication using a silicone-based oil to ensure that they continue to move smoothly.

Install the door by first placing the top of the door onto the track, and then swinging it in the bottom. Reinstalling the rollers in the track frame at their highest points is essential. This will allow the door to slide effortlessly into position without rubbing against the tracks.

repairing patio doors damaged wheels

A patio door often drags because the wheels are worn out. Examine the wheels on both sets and replace them if necessary. Also, clean the tracks to stop grit from grinding away the wheels. Straighten bent tracks using pliers, or by striking a block of wooden against the bent portion using a hammer. If the tracks are worn out, try covering the track sill. Installation is simple and takes less than 1 hour.