It's Time To Increase Your Patio Door Track Repair Options
How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair
The sliding patio doors are gorgeous and convenient, but they can experience issues over time that make them difficult to use. It's often the case that these problems stem from dirty or damaged tracks or rollers, which can be repaired by cleaning them and spraying them with a lubricant like WD-40.
Clean up any heavy dirt or debris with your vacuum cleaner and then scrub the track with a brush and cleaning solution, while periodically sliding the door back and forth. Apply an oil-based silicone to reduce friction.
Repairing Dented Tracks
Patio doors are a beautiful addition to any home, but if they stop sliding or don't open smoothly, it can be a gruelling experience. The good news is that in a lot of cases, a few simple steps can assist your sliding door to return to a smooth operation.
The main reason for stuck or difficult to move door is the accumulation of dirt in the track channels. The best way to fix this is to remove the door from the track and clean it thoroughly. You can employ a toothbrush to clean the more soiled dirt. Once the track has been cleaned, a silicone-based grease can be applied to stop any future issues.
It is also essential to inspect the rollers 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 not aligned properly the doors will become more difficult to move and may require replacement.
You should also visually inspect the tracks for bends or scratches. Inward bends can be a nuisance and can restrict a door, while outward bends could knock the rollers away or hinder them. If you notice bent sections of the track you can straighten them by using pliers, a hammer, or an oversized piece of wood. However, severe bends will require professional repairs or replacement.
If these simple solutions fail it could be necessary to replace the entire track. In this instance you can purchase a kit at most hardware stores to allow you to fix an entirely new track on the existing one. The track replacement kits are available in a variety of lengths and can be cut to fit the particular door.
It's recommended to take note of this to check if your track is bending or breaking, or showing signs of wear. The professionals are able to spot the issue and provide an effective and safe solution.
Repairing Broken Tracks
In most instances, a patio door that's stuck or difficult to move is due to dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris can accumulate over time, and if the tracks are bent or damaged, they may require repair or replacement by a professional to perform as they should. You can identify the issue yourself and fix it.
First, check the track to ensure it is not blocked by anything other than dust or rust. If the track is blocked, a thorough cleaning with a brush and mild detergent is recommended to eliminate the obstructions and bring back the smoothness of the movement.
Then, examine the rollers to ensure that they are not sticking or catching. A broken or faulty roller can cause the door to become stuck and may cause damage to the track which may require repair or replacement by a professional. If the rollers aren't damaged, you might be able to resolve the problem 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 can also cause your sliding door to stick or become difficult to operate. To fix this problem find the adjustment screw for the rollers. Adjust them until they are aligned properly with the track.
Another common cause of an unmovable or stuck patio door is worn weather stripping. It is easy to replace the weather stripping by taking it from the bottom of the fixed panel, and from the jamb using an screwdriver. Then you can pull the old strip out and sink the new one in.
If the track is severely bent, you should let a professional patio door installer who can fix the issue and ensure that the track is secure in place without further damage or bending. If your track is slightly bent or kinked, you could straighten it with a pair of metal-bending pliers. If you are unable to straighten the track on your own make use of a rubber hammer and a piece of wood. Continue hitting the bent section until it is straight.
Repairing damaged Rollers
If your sliding patio door is a bit noisy or difficult to roll, the culprit could be the rollers. They can get dirty and stiff over time, causing the door to slide against the track and become noisy. To resolve the issue clean the track on the bottom first before lubricating your rollers. Once the rollers are clean and smooth, you can place the door back on its tracks. Reattach any clips or braces used to secure the door in place after it was removed from its frame.
Sliding patio doors are usually heavy, so it's recommended to have a partner assist you in lifting the door up and then tilt it to your left and then release it from the bottom track. Set the door on a sturdy 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. ( patio door repairs near me ). This step might not be necessary on some older aluminum doors but is a good idea to do it if you have it. Then, pull out the adjustment screw for the rollers on the opposite side of the door frame. This screw regulates the height of the rollers; turning it clockwise lowers the rollers while turning it counterclockwise raises them.
It is helpful to have a companion during this process because you will need to use tools, like a Phillips-head screwdriver, and possibly pry bar or stiff putty knife, to disconnect the rollers from the tracks. When the rollers are free and removed, remove the dust cap from the wheel mechanisms and clean them. Then, wipe the surfaces down with alcohol to remove any remaining 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 portion of the door into the track and then moving the bottom portion in. It is crucial to install the new rollers in a proper manner, so that they are at their highest point inside the track frame. This will allow the door to slide effortlessly into position without rubbing against the tracks.
Repairing Damaged Wheels
A patio door often drags because the wheels wear out. Check both sets of wheels and replace them if they are damaged. Clean the tracks also to stop grit from damaging the wheels. Straighten bent tracks using pliers, or by striking the block of wood against the bent part using the Hammer. If the wheels continue to wear out, try the track sill. (See Photo 5) Installation is simple and takes less than an hour.