How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair
Sliding patio doors are convenient and beautiful, however in time, they may have issues that make them difficult to operate. These problems are often caused by damaged or dirty tracks or rollers. These can be fixed with WD-40 and a good cleaning.
Use your vacuum cleaner to clean any large particles of dirt and debris. Then, scrub the track using brushes and cleaning products, while sliding the door backwards and forwards often. Finally apply a silicone-based oil to lessen friction.
Repairing Dented Tracks
A patio door is a beautiful feature for any home, but when it stops sliding or does not open smoothly, it can become an unpleasant experience. In many instances it is possible to bring back the smooth operation of your sliding door by following a few simple steps.
A major reason for stuck or difficult to move door is the build-up of dirt in the track channels. The best method to address this is to detach the door from the track and wash it thoroughly. You can use a toothbrush to remove the more soiled dirt. After the track is clean, a silicone-based lubricant can be applied to avoid future problems.
Check the rollers as well for any damage or misalignment. The rollers sit at the bottom of the doors and guide them along the track. If these are damaged or misaligned the doors will be more difficult to move and could require replacement.
It is also important to check the tracks for bends or damage. Inward bends can pinch and bind the door, while outward bends can cause a jolt to the rollers or even destroy them completely. If you notice bent areas of the track, you can straighten them with the help of pliers, a hammer or an oversized piece of wood. However, serious bends will likely require professional repair or replacement.
If these fixes don't work, you might need to replace the entire track. In this instance you can locate kits in a majority of hardware stores that permit you to lay a brand new track over the old one and then screw it into place. These track replacement kits come in different lengths and can also be cut to fit the particular door.
It's also recommended to speak with an experienced Detroit sliding door repairman if your track is showing obvious signs of wear or is breaking or bending in any way. In most cases, the experts will be able to determine the root of the issue and recommend an option that is secure and efficient.
Repairing Broken Tracks
Damage or dirt to the track can cause a patio door to become blocked or difficult to open. The accumulation of dirt and debris over time. If your tracks are bent or damaged they might require professional repair or replacement. You can determine the problem yourself and correct it.
The first step is to inspect the track to ensure it is not obstructed by anything other than rust or dust. If the track is obstructed and needs to be cleaned thoroughly, a brush and mild detergent is recommended to remove the obstructions and restore smooth movement.
Then, check the rollers to ensure that they aren't catching or sticking. A broken or faulty roller can cause the door to stick and could result in further damage to the track that may require repair or replacement by a professional. If the rollers are not damaged, you may be able to resolve the problem by applying lubrication. A silicone-based lubricant will 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 correct this issue find the adjustment screw for the rollers. Adjust them until they align in a proper way with the track.
Weather stripping that is worn out can also cause patio doors to become stuck or hard to move. You can easily replace the weather stripping by removing it from the bottom of the fixed panel and from the jamb using a screwdriver. Then you can pull the old strip off and then install the new one in.
If the track is severely bent, you should let a professional patio contractor. They can correct the issue and ensure the track is securely in place without further damage or bending. However, if the track is just slightly bent or kinked, you may attempt to straighten it using a pair of metal-bending pliers. If you are unable to straighten the track on your own using a mallet made of rubber and a piece of wood to strike the bent portion of the track until it's completely straight.
Repairing damaged Rollers
If your sliding patio door is a bit noisy or difficult to roll, the cause could be the rollers. As time passes, the rollers become stiff and dirty. This causes the door to rub the track and create noise. To solve this issue start by cleaning the bottom track and then lubricate the rollers to smooth them back. After the rollers have been cleaned then you can put the door back on its tracks. Reattach any braces or clips used to hold the door in place after it was taken from its frame.
Sliding patio doors are usually heavy, so it is recommended to have a friend assist you in lifting the door up and then tilt it toward you, which will lift it off the bottom track. Set the door on a sturdy surface, like a table or sawhorses. Remove any grilles, or shades from the doors. Remove any screws that hold the head stop molding (Photo 2). On some 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 door frame. The screw controls the height of the rollers. Turning it counterclockwise will raise the rollers and clockwise, they will lower them.
It is helpful to have a friend close by to assist you in disengaging the rollers. sliding door glass replacement 'll require tools like the screwdriver that has Phillips head, and possibly a pry-bar or a strong putty blade to do this. After the rollers have been removed from the dust cap, take them away from the wheel mechanisms and scrub them. Then, wipe the roller surfaces down with alcohol to get rid of any remaining dirt or residue. After cleaning the rollers, apply lubrication with a silicone-based grease to ensure they are moving smoothly.
Install the door by putting the top part of the door into the track, and then bringing the bottom part of the door in. Reinstalling the rollers in the frame of the track at the highest points is essential. This will allow the door to slide smoothly into position without rubbing against the tracks.
Repairing Damaged Wheels
Often, a patio door is dragging because the wheels have worn out. Check the wheels on both sets and replace them if necessary. Also, clean the tracks to prevent the grit from damaging the wheels. If the tracks are bent, straighten them with pliers or by holding a block of wood against the bent part and hitting it with the hammer. If the wheels still wear out, try using a track sill. Installation is easy and takes less than one hour.