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How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair

Sliding patio doors are convenient and beautiful, but in time, they may develop issues that make them difficult to operate. These issues are usually caused by damaged or dirty tracks or rollers. They can be fixed using WD-40 and a good cleaning.

Make use of your vacuum cleaner to get rid of any large particles of dirt and debris. Then, scrub the track using a brush and cleaning product, while sliding the door forward and backwards frequently. Finally apply a silicone-based oil to reduce friction.

Repairing Dented Tracks

A patio door can be a gorgeous addition to any home, but when it stops sliding or does not open smoothly, it can become a frustrating experience. The good thing is that in many instances, a few easy steps can help your sliding door get back to a smooth operation.

Dirt in the track channels can be the main reason behind a door that is stuck or is difficult to move. The best solution to fix this is to remove the door from the track and wash it thoroughly. To get to the deep dirt, you can use a toothbrush or similar device to dislodge it. When the track is clear and dry, a silicone-based lubricant may be applied to avoid future problems.





Also, check the rollers for any damages or misalignments. The rollers sit at the bottom of the doors and guide them along the track. If they are damaged or not aligned properly, the doors will be more difficult to move and could require replacement.

Also, you should check the tracks for any bends or scratches. Bends that are inward can pinch and restrict the door, whereas 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 pliers, a hammer, or an oversized piece of wood. However, severe bends may require professional repair.

If these solutions fail it could be necessary to replace the entire track. In this case you can find track replacement 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 the correct position. Track replacement kits are available in various lengths and can be cut to fit your specific doors.

It's recommended to take note of this if you notice that your track is bent or breaking, or showing signs of wear. In the majority of cases, professionals will be able to identify the cause of the issue and suggest a solution that is both safe and effective.

Repairing Broken Tracks

Damage or dirt to the track can cause the patio door to become stuck or difficult to open. Dirt and debris accumulate over time. If your tracks are bent or damaged, they might require repair or replacement by a professional. You can determine the problem yourself and then fix it.

Check the track first to ensure it is not blocked by anything other than rust or dust. If the track is blocked and needs to be cleaned thoroughly, 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. You could be able to solve the issue when the rollers aren't damaged by lubricating the rollers. A silicone-based lubricant can reduce friction between the rollers on the track and the door.

A roller that is not aligned properly can cause your sliding door to become stuck or be difficult to operate. To correct this issue, locate the adjusting screw for the rollers. Adjust them until they align properly with the track.

Another reason that can cause a difficult-to-move or stuck patio door is the worn weather stripping. It is easy to replace the weather stripping by taking it from the bottom panel of the fixed panel and also from the jamb with a screwdriver. Then, you can pull the old strip out and sink the new one.

If the track is severely bent, you should let a professional patio contractor. They can correct the issue and ensure that the track is securely in place without any further damage or bending. However, if patio door repair is only slightly bent or kinked, you can try to straighten it with the help of pliers for metal bends. If you are unable to straighten the track by yourself using a mallet made of rubber and a piece of wood to pound the bent portion of the track until it's completely straight.

Repairing damaged Rollers

If your sliding patio door is loud or difficult to roll, the cause could be the rollers. They may become stiff and dirty over time, causing the door to rub against the track and becomes noisy. To resolve the issue, clean the bottom track first, then lubricate your rollers. Once the rollers are cleaned, you can put the door on its tracks. Attach any braces or clips used to hold the door in place after it was removed from its frame.

The sliding patio doors are typically heavy, so it's best to have a partner help you lift the door up and then tilt it toward you to release it from the bottom track. Place the door on a solid surface, like a table or sawhorses. Remove any removable grilles or shades from the doors. Remove any screws that hold the head stop molding. (Photo 2). On some older aluminum doors, this step is not mandatory, but it's something you should do if you have one. Remove the roller adjustment screws on both ends of the door frame. The screw controls the rollers' height; turning it clockwise lowers the rollers, while turning it counterclockwise raises them.

It is beneficial to have a friend close by to assist you in disengaging the rollers. You'll require tools such as the screwdriver that has a Phillips head and possibly a pry-bar or a strong putty knife to accomplish this. After the rollers have been removed, remove the dust cap from the wheel mechanisms and clean them. Then, clean the surface of the rollers with alcohol to get rid of any dirt or residue. Once the rollers are cleaned, lubricate them using an lubricant made of silicone that smothers dirt and keeps them moving effortlessly.

Reinstall the door by placing the top portion of the doors into the track and then swinging the bottom portion in. It is crucial to install the new rollers in a proper manner, so that they are at their highest point within the frame of the track. This will allow the door to slide smoothly into place without hitting the tracks.

Repairing damaged wheels

A patio door often drags because the wheels are worn out. Check the wheels on both sets and replace them if necessary. Clean the tracks too to prevent grit from destroying the wheels. If the tracks are bent, straighten them with pliers or by putting an object of wood against the bent portion and pounding it with the hammer. If the tracks are worn out, try a track sill cover. Installation is simple and takes less than an hour.