How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair

Sliding patio doors are convenient and beautiful, however over time they can develop issues that make them difficult to operate. It is often the case that these issues are caused by dirty or damaged rollers or tracks, which can be repaired by cleaning and spraying with an oil-based lubricant such as WD-40.

Take out any dirt or debris using a vacuum cleaner, then scrub the track with a brush and cleaning solution as you move the door back and back. In the end apply a silicone-based oil to reduce friction.

Repairing Dented Tracks

Patio doors are a stunning feature to any home, but when they stop sliding or don't open properly, it can be a frustrating experience. The good news is that in many cases, a few simple steps can assist your sliding door return to a smooth operation.

A major reason for a stuck or difficult to move door is a accumulation of dirt within the track channels. The best solution to fix this is to detach the door from the track and clean it thoroughly. To get to the deep 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 stop future issues.

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

It is also important to check the tracks for any bends or damage. Inward bends can squeeze and restrict a door, while outward bends could throw the rollers off or hinder them. If you notice bent sections of the track, you can try to straighten them with tools like pliers or a hammer along with a block of wood. However, severe bends will likely require professional repair or replacement.

If these simple solutions fail then you may need to replace the entire track. In this instance you can purchase kits at a variety of hardware stores to allow you to fix an entirely new track on the old one. The track replacement kits are available in a variety of lengths and can be cut to fit the specific door.

It's also a good idea if you notice that your track is bent or breaking, or showing signs of wear. In most cases, professionals will be able to determine the root cause of the problem and suggest a solution that is both safe and effective.

Repairing Broken Tracks

Damage or dirt to the track could cause the door to get stuck or difficult to open. Dirt and debris build up over time, and if the tracks are bent or damaged they might require professional repair or replacement to work properly. There are ways to determine the issue and fix it yourself.

First, check the track to ensure it is not blocked by anything other than rust or dust. If the track is blocked by dirt, a thorough clean using a brush and mild detergent is recommended to remove the obstructions and restore smooth movement.

Then, examine the rollers for any signs of catching or sticking. A damaged or broken door roller could cause it to become stuck. It could also cause more track damage, which will require repair or replacement by a professional. You could be able to solve the issue if the rollers are not damaged by lubricating them. A silicone-based lubricant may help reduce friction between the tracks and the rollers and make it easier for the door to slide.

A misaligned roller can also cause your sliding door to stick or become difficult to operate. To fix this, locate the screws for adjusting the rollers and adjust them until they are properly aligned with the track.

Another reason that can cause a stuck or hard-to-move patio door is the worn weather stripping. You can easily replace it by removing the weather stripping from the bottom of the fixed panel and from the jamb using a screwdriver, then pulling the old strip and sinking the new one.

If the track is severely bent, you should leave it to an experienced patio door contractor, who repairs sliding patio doors can correct the issue and ensure that the track is secure in place, without more damage or bending. If your track is bent or kinked, you can straighten it by using a pair of metal-bending pliers. If you're unable to straighten the track by yourself, use a rubber mallet and a piece of wood to hit the bent section of the track until it's completely straight.

Repairing damaged Rollers

Rollers are often the cause of noisy sliding patio doors or problems in rolling. They can get dirty and stiff over time, which causes the door to rub against the track and become noisy. To resolve the issue, clean the bottom track first and then lubricate your rollers. Once the rollers are cleaned, you can place the door on its tracks. Attach any braces or clips used to hold the door in place after it was taken from its frame.

It is best to ask a friend to assist you in lifting the sliding patio door and then tilt it towards you. This will release it from the bottom track. Set the sliding patio door on a stable flat 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 aluminum doors this step isn't mandatory, but it's something you should do if you have one. Then, take off the screws that adjust the height of rollers at both ends of the door frame. The screw controls the height of the rollers. By turning it counterclockwise, you will raise the rollers, and clockwise, they will lower them.

Having a friend available helps during this process because you'll need tools, like an Phillips-head screwdriver or pry bar or stiff putty knife, to remove the rollers from the tracks. After the rollers have been removed, remove the dust cap from the wheel mechanism and scrub them. Then, wipe the surfaces with alcohol to get rid of any residue or dirt that remains. After cleaning the rollers, lubricate with a silicone based grease to ensure they are 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 properly to ensure that they are at their highest position inside the track frame. This will allow doors to slide in easily without rubbing on the tracks.

Repairing Damaged Wheels

The wheels of a patio door can be worn out, and that's why it drags. Replace the wheels if needed. Clean the tracks as well to prevent grit from damaging the wheels. If the tracks are bent, straighten them using pliers or by holding an object of wood against the bent part and pounding it with a hammer. If the wheels continue to wear out, you can use using a track sill. Installation is easy and takes less than one hour.