Why Patio Door Track Repair Might Be Your Next Big Obsession
How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair
Sliding patio doors are easy and beautiful, however over time they can have issues that make them difficult to operate. These problems are often caused by dirty or damaged tracks or rollers, which can be fixed using WD-40 and a thorough cleaning.
Suck up any heavy dirt or debris with your vacuum cleaner, then scrub the track using a brush and cleaning solution while periodically sliding the door back and back. Apply a silicone-based grease to reduce friction.
Repairing Dented Tracks
A patio door is a stunning feature for any home, but when it stops sliding or does not open without a hitch, it can turn into a frustrating experience. In many cases it is possible to bring back smooth operation to your sliding door by following a few simple steps.
The main reason for a stuck or difficult to move door is the accumulation of dirt in the track channels. To remedy this, you should remove the door from the track. Clean it thoroughly. To get to the deeper dirt, you can use a toothbrush or similar device to dislodge it. Once the track has been cleaned, a silicone-based grease can be applied to stop future issues.
Check the rollers as well for any damage or misalignment. The rollers are at the bottom of the door and help to direct it 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 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 derail them completely. If you notice any bent tracks, you can try to straighten them using pliers or a hammer and block of wood. However, severe bends may require professional repair.
If these simple fixes don't work, you might need to replace the track. In this situation you can locate 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. Track replacement kits are available in several lengths and can be cut to fit your particular doors.
It's also an excellent idea to call a professional Detroit sliding door repairman if your track is showing obvious signs of wear or is bending or breaking in some way. In the majority of cases, experts will be able to identify the cause of the issue and suggest an option that is secure and efficient.
Repairing Broken Tracks
In most cases doors that are stuck or difficult to move is caused by dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris accumulate over time. If your tracks are bent or damaged they may need professional repair or replacement. You can diagnose the problem yourself and correct it.
First, check the track to make sure it's not blocked by anything other than rust or dust. If the track is obstructed and needs to be cleaned thoroughly, a brush and mild detergent should eliminate the obstructions and bring back smooth movement.
Then, inspect the rollers for any issues with catching or sticking. A broken or faulty door roller can cause it to stick. It can also lead to further damage to the track that requires professional repair or replacement. If the rollers aren't broken, you may be able solve the problem by lubricating them. A silicone-based lubricant may help reduce friction between the track and the rollers and make it easier for the door to slide.
A roller that is not aligned properly can cause your sliding door to stick or be difficult for you to operate. To correct this issue find the adjustment screw for the rollers. Adjust them until they are aligned in a proper way with the track.
Another common cause of a difficult-to-move or stuck patio door is worn weather stripping. It is easy to replace the weather stripping by removing it from the bottom panel of the fixed panel and also from the jamb with an screwdriver. Then, you can pull the old strip away and then install the new one.
If the track has been severely bent, you should let a professional patio contractor. They can correct the issue and ensure the track is held in place without further damage or bending. However, if your track is just slightly bent or kinked, try to straighten it with pliers that bend metal. If you're unable to straighten the track on your own using a hammer made of rubber and a piece of wood. Continue hitting the bent section until it is straight.
Repairing damaged Rollers
Rollers can be the reason for noisy sliding patio doors or difficulty in rolling. They can get stiff and dirty over time, causing the door to be pushed against the track, and then become noisy. To solve this issue first, clean the track's bottom and grease the rollers so that they make them smoother. Once the rollers are cleaned, you can put the door on its tracks. Attach any braces or clips used to keep the door in place after it was taken from its frame.
Sliding patio doors repairs near me are usually heavy, so it's recommended to have a partner help you lift the door up and tilt it towards you, which will lift it off the bottom track. Set the door on a solid surface, like a table or sawhorses. Remove any grilles, or shades from the doors. Remove any screws holding the head stop molding (Photo 2). On some older doors made of aluminum this step isn't necessary but it's good to do if you have one. Then, take out the roller adjustment screw on each end of the door frame. This screw regulates the height of the rollers; turning it clockwise lowers the rollers and counterclockwise raises them.
It is helpful to have a companion nearby to assist you in disengaging the rollers. You will need tools like the screwdriver that has a Phillips head and possibly a pry-bar or a stiff putty knife to accomplish this. Once the rollers are free from the dust cap, take them away from the wheel mechanism and clean them. Then, clean the surface of the rollers using alcohol to eliminate any dirt or residue. After the rollers have been cleaned, apply lubrication using an lubricant made of silicone that smothers dirt and keeps them sliding effortlessly.
Reinstall patio door repair by putting the top part of the door into the track and then moving the bottom part of the door in. It is essential to reinstall the new rollers correctly to ensure that they are at their highest position inside the frame of the track. This will allow the door to slide smoothly into place without rubbing against the tracks.
Repairing damaged wheels
A patio door often is dragging because the wheels have worn out. Inspect the wheels on both sets and replace them if they are damaged. Also clean the tracks to prevent the grit from destroying the wheels. Straighten bent tracks using pliers, or by hitting blocks of wood against the bent area with the Hammer. If the wheels are still wearing out, try a track sill. Installation is easy and takes less than one hour.