How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair
The sliding patio doors are gorgeous and practical, however they can experience issues in time, making them difficult to use. These problems are often caused by damaged or dirty tracks or rollers, which can be fixed using WD-40 and a good cleaning.
Use your vacuum cleaner to clean any large amounts of dirt and other debris. Then scrub the track with a brush and cleaning product, while sliding the door backwards and forwards often. Then apply a silicone-based lubricant to decrease friction.
Repairing Dented Tracks
Patio doors are a stunning addition to a home, but if they stop sliding or do not open smoothly it can be a stressful experience. The good news is that in many instances, a few easy steps can help your sliding door return to a smooth operation.
Dirt in the track channels can be the main reason behind a door that is stuck or is difficult to move. The best method to address this is to detach 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. After the track has been cleaned, a silicone-based oil can be applied to prevent future problems.
It's also important to check the rollers for any damage or misalignment. The rollers sit at the bottom of the doors and direct them along the track. If they are damaged or not aligned properly the doors will become more difficult to move and could require replacement.
Examine the tracks visually to check for any bends or dent. Bends that are inward can pinch and bind a door, whereas outward bends could knock the rollers off or derail them. If you notice bent sections of the track, you can try to straighten them using a set of pliers or a hammer and block of wood. However, more severe bends may require professional repairs.
If these easy fixes do not work, you may have to replace the track. In this situation you can find track replacement kits in most hardware stores that allow you to lay a brand new track over the old one and screw it into place. These track replacement kits come in various lengths and can be cut to fit the particular door.
In the end, it's an excellent idea to call a professional Detroit sliding door contractor in the event that your track is showing significant signs of wear or is bending or breaking in some way. In most cases, the professionals will be able determine the root cause of the issue and recommend an option that is secure and efficient.
Repairing Broken Tracks
Damage or dirt to the track could cause the door to get stuck or difficult to open. Dirt and debris can accumulate over time, and if your tracks are damaged or bent they may require professional repair or replacement to function properly. There are ways to diagnose the problem and fix it yourself.
The first step is to inspect the track to make sure it isn't blocked by any other factor than rust or dust. If the track is blocked by dirt, a thorough clean using a brush and mild detergent should eliminate the obstructions and bring back smooth movement.
Then, examine the rollers to ensure they aren't sticking or catching. A damaged or broken door roller could cause it to become stuck. It can also lead to further track damage that requires repair or replacement by a professional. You may be able solve the problem when the rollers aren't damaged by lubricating them. Utilizing a silicone-based lubricant could help reduce friction between the rollers and the track, making it easier for the door to slide.
A misaligned roller can also cause your sliding door to become stuck or be difficult to operate. To fix this issue find the adjustment 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 hard to move. You can easily replace the weather stripping by taking it from the bottom panel of the fixed panel, and also from the jamb with an screwdriver. Then, you can take the old strip off and sink the new one.
If the track is badly bent, it's best to leave this to an experienced patio door contractor who will fix the issue and ensure the track is secured safely in place without more damage or bending. However, if the track is bent only a little or kinked, you may try to straighten it using the help of pliers for metal bends. If you can't straighten the track by yourself, use a rubber mallet and a block of wood to strike the bent portion of the track until it is completely straight.
Repairing Damaged Rollers
Rollers can be the cause of noisy sliding patio doors, or difficulties in rolling. Over time, they may become stiff and filthy. This causes the door to rub on the track and make noise. To solve this issue first, clean the track's bottom and grease the rollers so that they make them smoother. When the rollers are clean and smooth, you can place the door back on its tracks. Attach any braces or clips used to hold the door in position after it was removed from its frame.
Sliding patio doors are generally heavy, so it's recommended to have a person help you lift the door up and then tilt it toward you, which will lift it off the bottom track. Set the door on a stable surface, like a table or sawhorses. Remove any grilles shades, drapes, or shades from the doors. Remove any screws holding the head stop molding (Photo 2). This step might not be required on some older aluminum doors but is a good idea if you have it. Then, take out the roller adjustment screw on each end of the door frame. This screw controls the rollers' height; turning it clockwise lowers the rollers, while turning it counterclockwise raises them.
patio door specialists is helpful to have someone close by to assist you in disengaging the rollers. You will need tools such as a screwdriver with Phillips head, and possibly pry-bars or a rigid putty blade to do this. Once the rollers are free they can be cleaned by removing the dust cap and removing any debris from the wheel mechanisms. Then, wipe the roller surfaces down with alcohol to get rid of 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 effortlessly.
Reinstall the door by placing the top part of the doors on the track and then moving the bottom part of the door in. Reinstalling the rollers into the track frame at their highest point is crucial. This will allow the door to slide smoothly into place without hitting the tracks.
Repairing damaged wheels
A patio door often is dragging because the wheels are worn out. Inspect the wheels of both sets and replace them if they are damaged. Also clean the tracks to stop grit from grinding away the wheels. If the tracks are bent, straighten them using pliers or by holding the block of wood against the bent area and hitting it with the Hammer. If the wheels continue to wear out, try a track sill. Installation is simple and takes less than one hour.