7 Things You Didn't Know About Patio Door Track Repair

Author : Barnes Langhoff | Published On : 17 May 2024

How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair

Sliding patio doors are easy and beautiful, but with time they can develop 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.

Suck up any heavy dirt or debris using your vacuum cleaner, then scrub the track using a brush and cleaning solution, as you move the door back and back. Finally, apply a silicone-based lubricant to decrease friction.

Repairing Dented Tracks

A patio door is a stunning addition to any home but when it isn't able to open or slide smoothly, it can be an unpleasant experience. The good news is that in a lot of situations, a few simple steps can allow your sliding door get back to a smooth operation.

The main reason for stuck or difficult to move door is a build-up of dirt in the track channels. To remedy this it is necessary to take the door off the track. Clean it thoroughly. To remove patio door repairs soiled grime, you can use a toothbrush or similar device to remove it. Once the track is cleaned, a silicone-based sealant can be applied to avoid future problems.

It's also crucial to examine the rollers for damage or misalignment. The rollers are located on the bottom of the door and assist to direct it along the track. If they are damaged or misaligned, the doors might be difficult to move and may require replacement.

It is also important to check the tracks for any bends or dents. Inward bends may squeeze and make a door unusable, whereas outward bends could throw the rollers off or derail them. If you notice bent sections of the track, you can straighten them by using pliers, a hammer, or a piece of wood. However, severe bends may require professional repairs.

If these simple fixes don't work it could be necessary to replace the entire track. In this instance you can find track replacement kits in most hardware stores that allow you to put a new track over the old one, and then screw it into the correct position. These track replacement kits come in various lengths, and they can also be cut to fit the specific door.

Lastly, it's a good idea to contact an experienced Detroit sliding door contractor in the event that your track is showing obvious signs of wear or breaking or bending in a certain way. The professionals are able to spot the problem and offer a safe and effective solution.

Repairing Broken Tracks

In a majority of cases, 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 tracks are bent or damaged they might require repair or replacement by a professional to perform as they should. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to determine the issue and repair it yourself.

First, check the track to ensure that it isn't blocked by anything other than dust or rust. If the track is blocked by dirt, a thorough clean using a brush and mild detergent will remove the obstructions and restore the smoothness of the movement.

Then, examine the rollers to ensure they are not sticking or catching. A broken or faulty door roller could cause it to stick. It can also lead to more track damage that will 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 door roller that isn't aligned correctly can cause the sliding door to stick or be difficult to operate. To fix this issue find the adjusting screw for the rollers. Adjust them until they align correctly with the track.

Another common cause for a difficult-to-move or stuck patio door is the worn weather stripping. You can easily replace it by loosening the weather stripping from the bottom of the fixed panel as well as from the jamb using a screwdriver, then pulling the old strip away and sinking the new one.

If the track has been severely bent, you should give it to a professional patio contractor. They can correct the problem and ensure that the track is securely in place without further damage or bending. If your track is bent or kinked you can straighten it using a pair metal-bending pliers. If you can't straighten the track by yourself make use of a mallet made from rubber and a block of wood to hit the bent portion of the track until it is completely straight.

Repairing Damaged Rollers

Rollers could be the cause of noisy sliding patio doors or difficulty in rolling. Over time, they may become stiff and filthy. This causes the door to rub the track and create noise. To solve the issue clean the track on the bottom first and then lubricate your rollers. Once the rollers are cleaned, you can place the door back on its tracks. This is the ideal moment to reconnect any clips or braces that held the door in place when it was removed from the frame.

It is best to have a friend assist you in lifting up the sliding patio door and then tilt it towards you. This will release it from the bottom track. Place the door on a sturdy surface, like a table or sawhorses. Remove any grilles, shades, or drapes from the doors. Remove any screws that are holding the head stop molding. (Photo 2). This step might not be necessary on some older doors, but is a good idea to do it if you have it. Then, remove the roller adjustment screws on both ends of the frame. This screw controls the rollers' height and turning it clockwise lowers the rollers, while turning it counterclockwise raises them.

It is beneficial to have a companion nearby to help you disengage the rollers. You'll need tools like a screwdriver with Phillips heads and a pry-bar or a stiff putty knife to accomplish this. When the rollers are free from the dust cap, take them away from the wheel mechanisms and scrub them. Clean the surfaces of the rollers with alcohol to get rid of any residue or dirt. After cleaning the rollers, lubricate with a silicone based lubricant to keep them moving smoothly.

Install the door by first putting the top of the door in the track, and then swinging it in the bottom. It's important to reinstall the new rollers properly in order to place them at their highest position inside the track frame. This will allow the door to slide effortlessly into place without rubbing against the tracks.


Repairing Damaged Wheels

The wheels of a patio door could be worn out, which is why it sags. Replace the wheels if needed. Also clean the tracks to keep the grit from destroying the wheels. If the tracks are bent, straighten them using pliers or by putting a block of wood against the bent portion and pounding it with a Hammer. If the wheels are still wearing out, you can use using a track sill. (See Photo 5) Installation is easy and takes less than an hour.