How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair

Patio doors that slide open are beautiful and practical, however they may develop issues over time that make them difficult for you to use. It's often the case that these problems stem from damaged or dirty tracks or rollers, which can be addressed by cleaning and spraying with the lubricant WD-40.

Use your vacuum cleaner to remove any large particles of dirt and debris. Then, scrub the track using brushes and cleaning products as you move the door forwards and backwards often. Finally apply a silicone-based oil to decrease friction.

Repairing Dented Tracks

Patio doors are an attractive addition to any home, but if they stop sliding or don't open properly, it can be a gruelling experience. In most cases you can restore the smooth operation of your sliding door by following a few easy instructions.

Dirt in the track channels is one of the major causes for the door becoming stuck or is difficult to move. The best solution to fix this is to disconnect the door from the track and wash it thoroughly. You can use a toothbrush to remove the deeper grime. Once the track has been cleaned, a silicone-based grease can be applied to avoid future problems.

It is also essential to inspect the rollers for any damage or misalignment. The rollers are at the bottom of the door and help to direct it along the track. If they are damaged or not aligned properly the doors will be more difficult to move and could require replacement.

You should also visually inspect the tracks for any bends or scratches. Inward bends can be a nuisance and can make a door unusable, whereas outward bends could throw the rollers away or hinder them. If you spot bent sections of the track you can straighten them using pliers, a hammer, or a piece of wood. However, more severe bends may require professional repairs.

If these fixes don't work, you might need to replace the track. In this case you can locate kits in most hardware stores that will allow you to lay a new track over the old one and then screw it in the correct position. These track replacement kits are available in a variety of lengths and can be cut to fit your specific doors.

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

Repairing Broken Tracks

In most instances the patio door that is stuck or difficult to move is caused by dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris can accumulate over time, and if tracks are bent or damaged they might require professional repair or replacement to function properly. Fortunately, there are ways to identify the issue and fix it yourself.

The first step is to inspect the track to ensure it is not obstructed by any other factor than dust or rust. If the track is obstructed by something other than dust or rust, a thorough clean with a brush using mild detergent will remove any obstructions and restore smooth motion.

Then, examine the rollers for any catching or sticking. A damaged or broken door roller can cause it to stick. It could also result in further damage to the track, which will require repair patio door or replacement by a professional. You could be able to solve the problem if the rollers are not damaged by lubricating them. A silicone-based lubricant will reduce friction between the rollers on the track and the door.

A misaligned door roller can also cause your sliding patio door lock repair door to become stuck or be difficult for you to operate. To fix this, locate the adjusting screws for the rollers and adjust them until they are aligned with the track.

Weather stripping that has worn out can also cause patio doors to be stuck or difficult to move. 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 a screwdriver. Then, you can take the old strip away and then install the new one.

If the track is seriously bent, you should leave this to an experienced patio door contractor who will fix the problem and make sure the track is securely in place, without more damage or bending. However, if the track is bent only a little or kinked, attempt to straighten it using a pair of metal-bending pliers. If you're unable to straighten the track by yourself, use a rubber mallet and a piece of wood to pound the bent section of the track until it is completely straight.

Repairing damaged Rollers

Rollers can be the reason for noisy sliding patio doors or difficulty in rolling. Over time, they can become stiff and filthy. This causes the door to rub the track, causing noise. To resolve this issue, first clean the track's bottom and grease the rollers so that they make them smoother. Once the rollers are cleaned, you can put the door on its tracks. Attach any braces or clips used to secure the door in place after it was removed from its frame.

It is recommended to have a friend assist you in lifting the sliding patio door and then tilt it towards you. This will release it from the bottom track. Set 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 might not be required on some older doors, but is recommended in the event that you have it. Next, back out the roller adjustment screw at each end of the frame. The screw controls the rollers' height; 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, such as an Phillips-head screwdriver or pry bar or stiff putty knife, to disengage the rollers from the tracks. Once you have the rollers free and clean, you can wash them by getting rid of the dust cap, and removing any debris from the wheel's mechanisms. Then, wash the surface of the rollers with alcohol to remove any residue or dirt. After cleaning the rollers, lubricate using a silicone-based grease to ensure they are moving smoothly.

Install the door by first putting the top of the door in the track, then swinging it in the bottom. Reinstalling the rollers in the track frame at their highest point is important. This will allow the door to slide smoothly into position without rubbing against the tracks.

repairing patio doors damaged wheels

Most often, a patio door drags because the wheels wear out. Replace the wheels if needed. Clean the tracks also to prevent grit from damaging the wheels. Straighten bent tracks using pliers, or by striking a block of wooden against the bent portion with a Hammer. If the wheels continue to wear out, you can try using a track sill. (See Photo 5) Installation is simple and takes less than an hour.