How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair

Patio doors that slide open are practical and beautiful, but in time, they may develop problems that make them difficult to operate. These issues are typically caused by dirty or damaged tracks or rollers. They can be repaired with WD-40 and a good cleaning.

Make use of your vacuum cleaner to get rid of any heavy dirt and debris. Then, scrub the track using brushes and cleaning products, while sliding the door forwards and backwards periodically. Apply a silicone-based grease to reduce friction.

Repairing Dented Tracks

A patio repair near me 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 many instances you can restore smooth operation to your sliding door by following a few easy instructions.

Dirt in the track channels can be one of the major causes for a door that is stuck or difficult to move. To remedy this problem, you must take the door off the track. Clean it thoroughly. To get to the deep grime, you can use a toothbrush or similar device to remove it. Once the track is clean and dry, a silicone-based lubricant may be applied to prevent further issues.

It is also essential to inspect the rollers for any 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.

Check the tracks visually to find any bends or dent. Bends that are inward can be a nuisance and can restrict a door, while outward bends could knock the rollers away or cause them to be unable to move. If you notice bent sections of the track, you can straighten them using pliers, a hammer or a block of wood. However, more severe bends will likely require professional repairs or replacement.

If these fixes do not work, you might need to replace the track. In this instance you can find track replacement kits in most hardware stores that allow you to put a new track over the old one and screw it in place. The track replacement kits are available in several lengths and can be cut to fit your particular doors.

It's also a good idea to check if your track is deforming, breaking or showing signs of wear. In most cases, professionals will be able determine the root cause of the issue and suggest an option that is safe and effective.

Repairing Broken Tracks

In many instances, a patio door that's stuck or difficult to move is caused by dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris build up over time. If your tracks are bent or damaged they may need repair or replacement by a professional. You can identify the issue yourself and correct it.

First, check the track to make sure it's not blocked by anything other than rust or dust. If the track is blocked by something other than dust or rust, a thorough clean with a brush and mild detergent will remove any obstructions and restore smooth movement.

Next, check the rollers for any signs of catching or sticking. A broken or faulty roller could cause the door to snag and cause further damage to the track which could require professional repair or replacement. If the rollers are not damaged, you might be able solve the issue by oiling them. A silicone-based lubricant can reduce friction between the rollers on the track and the door.

A misaligned roller can also cause your sliding door to stick or become difficult to operate. To fix this issue, find the screws that adjust the rollers and adjust them until they are properly aligned with the track.

Weather stripping that has damaged can cause patio doors repair near me doors to be stuck or hard to move. You can replace this yourself by loosening the weather stripping from the bottom of the fixed panel and from the jamb with the help of a screwdriver, and then removing the old strip away and sunking the new one.

If your track is severely bent, you should leave it to an experienced patio doors repair near me contractor. They can fix the issue and ensure the track is securely in place without 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 straighten the track on your own 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 upvc patio door repairs near me door is loud or difficult to roll, the culprit could be the rollers. They can get dirty and stiff over time, which causes the door to rub against the track and become noisy. To solve the issue clean the track at the bottom first before lubricating your rollers. After the rollers have been cleaned 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 best to have a friend assist you in lifting up the sliding patio door and tilt it towards you. This will release it from the bottom track. Place the door on a sturdy surface, such as a table or sawhorses. Remove any removable grilles or shades from the doors. Remove any screws holding the head stop molding. (Photo 2). This step may not be necessary on some older aluminum doors but is an excellent idea if you have it. Then, take off the screws that adjust the height of rollers at both ends of the door frame. This screw controls roller height. Turning it counterclockwise will raise the rollers, and clockwise, they will lower them.

It is beneficial to have a companion nearby to assist you in disengaging the rollers. You will need tools such as an screwdriver with a Phillips head and possibly pry-bars or a rigid putty knife to accomplish this. Once you have the rollers free they can be cleaned by getting rid of the dust cap, and getting rid of any debris that has accumulated on the wheel's mechanisms. Then, clean the surface of the rollers with alcohol to remove any dirt or residue. After cleaning the rollers, apply lubrication with a silicone based lubricant to keep them moving smoothly.

Reinstall the door by placing the top part of the door into the track and then moving the bottom part in. It is essential to reinstall the new rollers in a proper manner in order to place them at their highest point within the track frame. This will allow the door to slide smoothly into position without rubbing against the tracks.

Repairing damaged wheels

Most often, a patio door drags because the wheels have worn out. Check the wheels of both sets and replace them if they are damaged. Also clean the tracks to stop grit from grinding away the wheels. Straighten bent tracks with pliers, or by striking the block of wood against the bent area using a hammer. If the wheels are still worn, consider covering the track sill. (See Photo 5) Installation is simple and takes less than a half hour.