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How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair Sliding patio doors are convenient and beautiful, but over time they can develop problems that make them difficult to operate. It's often the case that these problems stem from damaged or dirty rollers or tracks, which can be addressed by cleaning them and spraying them with an oil-based lubricant such as WD-40. Use your vacuum cleaner to clean any large amounts of dirt and other debris. Then, scrub the track using brushes and cleaning products, while sliding the door forward and backwards often. Apply a silicone-based grease to reduce friction. Repairing Dented Tracks A patio door is a stunning addition to any home, but when it stops sliding or does not open without a hitch, it can turn into a frustrating experience. In many instances, you can restore the smooth operation of your sliding door by following a few simple steps. A major reason for a stuck or difficult to move door is the build-up of dirt in the track channels. To remedy this it is necessary to remove the door from the track. Clean it thoroughly. You can employ a toothbrush to clean the deeper grime. Once the track has been cleaned, a silicone-based grease can be applied to avoid any future issues. It's also crucial to examine the rollers for any damage or misalignment. The rollers sit at the bottom of the doors and help guide them along the track. If they're damaged or misaligned, the doors may be difficult to move, and may need replacement. Also, you should check the tracks for any bends or dents. Bends that are inward can be a nuisance and can restrict a door, while outward bends could knock the rollers off or even hinder them. If you notice bent sections of the track, you can straighten them with pliers, a hammer, or a block of wood. However, more severe bends may require professional assistance for repair. If these easy fixes do not work, you might need to replace the track. In this situation you can purchase a kit in most hardware stores that allow you to screw a new track to the existing one. The track replacement kits are available in various lengths and can be cut to fit your specific doors. Lastly, it's an excellent idea to call a professional Detroit sliding door contractor in the event that your track is showing major signs of wear or breaking or bending in any way. In most cases, experts will be able to determine the root of the issue and suggest solutions that are both secure and efficient. Repairing Broken Tracks Damage or dirt to the track can cause a patio door to become stuck or difficult to open. Dirt and debris can accumulate over time, and if the tracks are bent or damaged they might require professional repair or replacement to function properly. You can determine the problem yourself and then fix it. First, examine the track to ensure it isn't blocked by any other factor than rust or dust. If the track is blocked by something other than dust or rust A thorough clean using a brush and mild detergent will remove any obstructions and allow for smooth movement. Next, inspect the rollers to ensure that they are not sticking or catching. A broken or faulty door roller can cause it to become stuck. It could also cause further damage to the track that will require professional repair or replacement. You could be able to solve the problem in the event that the rollers aren't damaged by lubricating the rollers. Utilizing a silicone-based lubricant could help reduce friction between the tracks and the rollers and make it easier for the door to slide. A door roller that isn't aligned correctly can also cause the sliding door to stick or be difficult to operate. To solve this issue, locate the screws for adjusting the rollers and adjust them until they are properly aligned with the track. Weather stripping that has worn out can also cause patio doors to become stuck or difficult to move. You can easily replace the weather stripping by removing it from the bottom panel of the fixed panel and then from the jamb by using the screwdriver. Then, you can take the old strip off and install the new one. If the track is seriously bent, it's best to let an experienced patio door contractor who can fix the issue and ensure the track is securely 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 you're unable to straighten the track by yourself, use a rubber mallet and a piece of wood to hit the bent portion of the track until it is completely straight. Repairing Damaged Rollers If your sliding patio door is noisy or difficult to roll, the reason may be your rollers. As time passes, the rollers become stiff and dirty. This causes the door to rub the track and make noise. To solve this issue, first clean the bottom track, and then grease the rollers to make them smooth again. After the rollers have been cleaned and smooth, you can place the door back on its tracks. This is the perfect moment to attach any braces or clips that kept the door in place when it was removed from the frame. Sliding patio doors are usually heavy, so it's recommended to have a person help you lift the door and tilt it towards you and then lift it off the bottom track. Set the sliding patio door on a solid, flat surface such as tables or sawhorses. Remove any removable grilles or shades from the doors. Remove any screws that are holding the head stop molding (Photo 2). On older doors made of aluminum this step isn't necessary but it's good to do if you've got one. Then, take out the screw for adjustment at each end of the frame. The screw controls the rollers' height; turning it clockwise lowers the rollers, while turning it counterclockwise raises them. Having patio door repairs during this process because you will need to use tools, such as a Phillips-head screwdriver and possibly pry bar or a stiff putty knife to disconnect the rollers from the tracks. Once the rollers are free from the dust cap, take them away from the wheel mechanism and clean them. Then, wipe the surfaces using alcohol to get rid of any residue or dirt that remains. After the rollers have been cleaned, apply lubrication using an lubricant based on silicone that repels dirt and keeps them moving effortlessly. Install the door by first inserting the top of the door into the track, then swinging it in the bottom. Reinstalling the rollers in the track frame at their highest points is essential. This will allow the door to slide effortlessly into place without hitting the tracks. Repairing Damaged Wheels A patio door often is dragging because the wheels have worn out. Examine both sets of wheels and replace them 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 putting an object of wood against the bent area and hitting it with a Hammer. If the wheels are still worn, consider an edging cover for the track. (See Photo 5) Installation is easy and takes less than a half hour.