How to Fix Sliding
Patio Door Track RepairSliding patio doors are easy and attractive, but over time they can develop issues that make them difficult to operate. These problems are often caused by dirty or damaged tracks or rollers. These can be fixed using WD-40 and a good cleaning.
Take out any dirt or debris using your vacuum cleaner and then scrub the track with a brush and cleaning solution, as you move the door back and back. Apply an oil-based silicone to reduce friction.
Repairing Dented Tracks
patio glass repair near me doors are a beautiful addition to any home, but when they stop sliding or do not open properly, it can be a frustrating experience. In many instances it is possible to bring back smooth operation to your sliding door by following a few simple steps.
A major cause of a jammed or difficult to move door is a build-up of dirt in the track channels. The best method to address this is to detach the door from the track and clean it thoroughly. You can employ a toothbrush to clean the deeper grime. After the track is clean, a silicone-based lubricant can be applied to prevent further issues.
Inspect 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 are damaged or misaligned the doors will become more difficult to move and might require replacement.
You should also visually inspect the tracks for bends or dents. Inward bends can bind and make the door unusable, while outward bends could cause damage to the rollers, or even derail them completely. If you notice any 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, more severe bends may require professional assistance for repair.
If these simple solutions don't work, you might need to replace the entire track. In this case, you can find kits at most hardware stores that will allow you to lay a brand new track over the old one, and then screw it in the correct position. These track replacement kits are available in several lengths and can be cut to fit your particular doors.
In the end, it's an excellent idea to call a professional Detroit sliding door repairman when your track is showing obvious signs of wear or is breaking or bending in any way. The professionals can usually identify the issue and offer an effective and safe solution.
Repairing Broken Tracks
In a majority of cases doors that are 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 damaged or bent, they may require repair or replacement by a professional to work properly. You can diagnose the problem yourself and correct it.
The first step is to inspect the track to ensure it isn't blocked by anything other than rust or dust. If the track is blocked by dirt, a thorough clean using a brush and mild detergent will eliminate the obstructions and bring back smooth movement.
Next, inspect the rollers to ensure they aren't sticking or catching. A damaged or broken roller could cause the door to snag and may cause damage to the track which could require repair or replacement by a professional. You may be able solve the issue in the event that the rollers aren't damaged by lubricating them. Using a silicone-based lubricant can help reduce friction between the track and the rollers, making it easier for the door to slide.
A misaligned door roller can cause your sliding door to become stuck or become difficult to operate. To solve this issue, locate the screws for adjusting the rollers and adjust them until they are aligned with the track.
Weather stripping that is worn-out can cause
patio door lock repair near me doors to become stuck or difficult to move. You can replace it yourself by loosening the weather stripping at the bottom of the fixed panel as well as from the jamb with the help of a screwdriver, and then removing the old strip off and sinking the new one.
If your track is badly bent, give it to an experienced patio contractor. They can correct the issue and ensure that the track is held in place without any further damage or bends. However, if your track is only slightly bent or kinked, you may try to straighten it with the help of pliers for metal bends. If you're unable to straighten the track by yourself, use a rubber mallet and a block of wood to strike the bent portion of the track until it is completely straight.
Repairing damaged Rollers
Rollers are often the reason for noisy sliding
local patio door repairs doors, or difficulties in rolling. Over time, they can become stiff and filthy. This causes the door to rub on the track and make noise. To resolve this issue start by cleaning the bottom track and then grease the rollers so that they smooth them back. Once the rollers are clean and smooth, you can place the door back on its tracks. Reattach any clips or braces used to keep the door in place after it was removed from its frame.
The
sliding patio door repairs patio doors are typically heavy, so it's best to have a partner assist you in lifting the door and then tilt it toward you to let it go off the bottom track. Place the door on a solid surface, such as a table or sawhorses. Remove any grilles that are removable or shades from the doors. Remove any screws holding the head stop molding. (Photo 2). On some older aluminum doors this step isn't required, but it's a good thing to do if you have one. Then, remove the roller adjustment screws on both sides of the frame. This screw regulates 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 in this process as you will require tools, like a Phillips-head screwdriver and possibly pry bar or stiff putty knife to disengage the rollers from the tracks. Once you have the rollers free they can be cleaned by getting rid of the dust cap, and taking out any debris from the wheel mechanism. Then, wipe the roller surfaces down with alcohol to get rid of any remaining dirt or residue. After cleaning the rollers, apply lubrication using a silicone-based lubricant to keep them moving smoothly.
Install the door by first putting the top of the door into the track, and then swinging the bottom. Installing the rollers in the frame of the track at their highest points is essential. 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. Replace the wheels if needed. Also, clean the tracks to stop grit from grinding away the wheels. Straighten bent tracks with pliers or by hitting a block of wooden against the bent area using a hammer. If the wheels are still wearing out, you can try a track sill. (See Photo 5) Installation is simple and takes less than a half hour.
