How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair
Patio doors that slide open are practical and attractive, but over time they can have issues that make them difficult to operate. These issues are usually caused by damaged or dirty tracks or rollers. These can be repaired with 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 brushes and cleaning products, while sliding the door forwards and backwards frequently. Finally apply a silicone-based lubricant 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 a frustrating experience. The good news is that in a lot of cases, a few simple steps can allow your sliding door to return to smooth operation.
The main reason for a jammed or difficult to move door is the build-up of dirt in the track channels. To get rid of this issue, you should remove the door from the track. Clean it thoroughly. You can make use of a toothbrush to get rid of the more soiled dirt. Once the track has been cleaned, a silicone-based grease can be applied to stop future problems.
It's also important to check the rollers for damage or misalignment. The rollers are at the bottom of the door and assist to guide it along the track. If they are damaged or not aligned properly the doors will become more difficult to move and might require replacement.
It is also important to check the tracks for bends or damage. Bends that are inward can be a nuisance and can make a door unusable, whereas outward bends can throw the rollers off or even derail them. If you notice bent sections of the track, you can straighten them with pliers, a hammer, or an oversized piece of wood. However, serious bends will likely require professional repair or replacement.
If these solutions don't work then you may need to replace the entire track. In this instance you can locate kits at most hardware stores that permit you to lay a new track over the old one and screw it into the correct position. The track replacement kits are available in a variety of lengths and can be cut to fit the particular door.
It's also recommended to speak with a professional Detroit sliding door contractor when your track is showing major signs of wear or is breaking or bending in a certain way. The professionals can usually identify the issue and offer an effective and safe solution.
Repairing Broken Tracks
In many cases doors that are stuck or difficult to move is due to dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris can build up over time, and if tracks are damaged or bent they might require professional repair or replacement to function properly. You can diagnose the problem yourself and fix it.
Examine the track first to ensure it is not blocked by anything other than dust or rust. If the track is obstructed by dirt, a thorough clean using a brush and mild detergent should remove the obstructions and restore the smoothness of the movement.
Then, inspect the rollers for any catching or sticking. A damaged or broken roller can cause the door to become stuck and could result in further damage to the track, which could require repair or replacement by a professional. If the rollers aren't damaged, you may be able solve the issue by lubricating them. A silicone-based lubricant will reduce friction between the rollers on the track and the door.
A roller that is not aligned properly could cause your sliding door to stick or be difficult to operate. To fix this issue, find the screws for adjusting the rollers and adjust them until they are aligned with the track.
Another common cause of an unmovable or stuck patio door is worn weather stripping. You can easily replace it by removing the weather stripping from the bottom of the fixed panel and the jamb with the help of a screwdriver, and then removing the old strip and sunking the new one.
If the track is badly bent, you should leave this to an experienced patio door contractor, who can correct the problem and make sure the track is secured safely in place without more damage or bending. If your track is bent or kinked, you could straighten it by using a pair of metal-bending pliers. If patio door lock repair are unable to straighten the track on your own using a mallet made of rubber and a piece of wood to pound the bent portion of the track until it is completely straight.
Repairing damaged Rollers
Rollers are often the reason behind noisy sliding patio doors or problems in rolling. Over time, they can become stiff and filthy. This causes the door to rub the track, causing noise. To solve this issue, first clean the track's bottom and lubricate the rollers to make them smoother. Once the rollers are cleaned, it is time to put the door on its tracks. Reattach any clips or braces used to secure the door in position after it was removed from its frame.
It is recommended to ask a friend to assist you in lifting up the sliding patio door and then tilt it toward you. This will free it from 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). This step may not be necessary on some older aluminum doors but is an excellent idea in the event that you have it. Next, back out the screw for adjustment on each end of the door frame. This screw controls the height of the rollers and turning it clockwise lowers the rollers and counterclockwise raises them.
It is a good idea to have a companion nearby to help you disengage the rollers. You'll need tools such as an screwdriver with Phillips head, and possibly a pry-bar or a strong putty blade for this. When the rollers are free from the dust cap, take them away from the wheel mechanism and scrub them. Then, wipe the roller surfaces down with alcohol to remove any residue or dirt that remains. After cleaning the rollers, apply lubrication with a silicone-based lubricant to keep them moving smoothly.
Install the door by putting the top part of the doors into the track and then moving the bottom portion in. Reinstalling the rollers into the frame of the track at the highest points is essential. This will allow the doors to slide into place easily without rubbing on the tracks.
Repairing Damaged Wheels
Often, a patio door drags because the wheels are worn out. Inspect the wheels of both sets and replace them if necessary. Also clean the tracks to keep the grit from destroying the wheels. Straighten bent tracks by using pliers, or by hitting a block of wooden against the bent area using a hammer. If the wheels are still wearing out, you can try using a track sill. (See Photo 5) Installation is simple and takes less than a half hour.