What Is Patio Door Track Repair? How To Make Use Of It How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair

Patio doors that slide open are practical and attractive, but over time they can develop problems that make them difficult to operate. These issues are typically caused by damaged or dirty tracks or rollers. They can be fixed with WD-40 and a good cleaning.

Take out click this over here now or debris using your vacuum cleaner and then scrub the track with a brush and cleaning solution, while periodically sliding the door back and back. Apply an oil-based silicone to reduce friction.

Repairing Dented Tracks

A patio door is a stunning addition to any home, but when it isn't able to open or slide smoothly, it can become an unpleasant experience. The good news is that in a lot of situations, a few simple steps can assist your sliding door return to its normal operation.

Dirt in the track channels is one of the major causes for the door becoming stuck or is difficult to move. To get rid of this issue it is necessary to remove the door from the track. Clean it thoroughly. You can employ a toothbrush to clean the more soiled dirt. Once the track is cleaned, a silicone-based oil can be applied to avoid future issues.

It is also essential to 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 these are damaged or not aligned properly the doors will be more difficult to move and could require replacement.

Examine the tracks visually to check for any bends or dents. Bends that are inward can pinch and bind a door, whereas outward bends could throw the rollers away or derail them. If you notice any bent tracks Try to straighten them by using a set of tools like pliers or a hammer along with a block of wood. However, extreme bends might require professional repairs.

If these easy fixes don't work, you may need to replace the track. In this instance, you can find kits at most hardware stores that will allow you to put a new track over the old one, and then screw it in the correct position. The track replacement kits are available in different lengths and can also be cut to fit the particular door.

It's also an excellent idea to call a professional Detroit sliding door contractor if your track is showing obvious wear or is breaking or bending in any way. The professionals are able to spot the issue and provide an effective and safe solution.

Repairing Broken Tracks


In many cases doors that are stuck or difficult to move is due to dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris can build up over time, and if your tracks are damaged or bent they might require professional repair or replacement to function properly. You can determine the problem yourself and then fix it.

First, inspect the track to make sure it isn't blocked by any other factor than dust or rust. If the track is blocked by dirt, a thorough clean using a brush and mild detergent should remove the obstructions and restore the smoothness of the movement.

Next, check the rollers for any issues with catching or sticking. A damaged or broken roller can cause the door to snag and could result in further damage to the track which may require repair or replacement by a professional. You may be able solve the problem in the event that the rollers aren't damaged by lubricating them. 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 roller that is not aligned properly can also cause your sliding door to become stuck or become difficult to operate. To correct this issue, locate the adjusting screw for the rollers. Adjust them until they align correctly with the track.

Another common cause for a difficult-to-move or stuck 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 with an screwdriver, then taking the old strip away and sunking the new one.

If the track is seriously bent, you should leave this to a professional patio door installer, who can correct the problem and make sure the track is securely in place, without further damage or bends. However, if your track is bent only a little or kinked, try to straighten it with pliers that bend metal. If you are unable straighten the track on your own, use a rubber hammer and a piece of wood. Continue to pound the bent section until it is straight.

Repairing damaged Rollers

If your sliding patio door is noisy or difficult to roll, the culprit could be the rollers. They can become stiff and dirty over time, causing the door to rub against the track, and then become noisy. To solve this issue start by cleaning the bottom track, and then grease the rollers to smooth them back. After the rollers have been cleaned then you can put the door back on its tracks. Reattach any braces or clips used to secure 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 tilt it towards you. This will lift it from the bottom track. Set the sliding patio door on a sturdy flat surface, such as a sawhorses or table. 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 is not required, but it's a good thing to do if you've got one. Then, remove the screws that adjust the height of rollers at both ends of the frame. The screw controls the height of the rollers. Turning it counterclockwise will raise the rollers and clockwise, they will lower them.

It is helpful to have someone nearby to help you disengage the rollers. You will need tools such as a screwdriver with Phillips head, and possibly pry-bars or a rigid putty knife to accomplish this. Once the rollers are free and clean, you can wash them by getting rid of the dust cap, and getting rid of any debris that has accumulated on the wheel mechanism. Then, clean the roller surfaces using alcohol to eliminate any residue or dirt. Once the rollers are cleaned, lubricate them with an lubricant made of silicone that smothers dirt and keeps them moving smoothly.

Install the door by putting the top part of the door into the track and then swinging the bottom part of the door in. Installing the rollers in the track frame at their highest point is important. This will allow the door to slide easily into place without hitting the tracks.

Repairing Damaged Wheels

A patio door often drags because the wheels are worn out. Replace the wheels if necessary. Also, clean the tracks to stop grit from grinding away the wheels. If the tracks are bent, straighten them using pliers or by placing an object of wood against the bent portion and pounding it with a hammer. If the wheels are still wearing out, you can try using a track sill. (See Photo 5) Installation is easy and takes less than a half hour.