How Patio Door Track Repair Changed My Life For The Better How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair

The sliding patio doors are gorgeous and practical, however they may develop issues with time that make them difficult to operate. It's often the case that the problems are caused by damaged or dirty tracks or rollers. These can be repaired by cleaning and spraying the lubricant WD-40.

Suck up any heavy dirt or debris using a vacuum cleaner Then scrub the track with a brush and cleaning solution, as you move the door back and forth. Then, apply patio doors repairs -based lubricant to decrease 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 be an unpleasant experience. In many instances, you can bring back smooth operation to your sliding door by following a few simple instructions.

The main reason for a stuck or difficult to move door is the accumulation of dirt within the track channels. To get rid of this issue, you should remove the door from the track. Clean it thoroughly. To get to the deeper grime, you can use a toothbrush or similar tool to get rid of it. Once the track is clean and dry, a silicone-based lubricant may be applied to prevent future issues.

It's also important to check the rollers for damage or misalignment. The rollers are located at the bottom of the doors and direct them along the track. If they're damaged or misaligned the doors could be difficult to move, and could require replacement.

Examine the tracks visually to find any bends or scratches. Inward bends can pinch and bind the door, while outward bends can throw off the rollers or even destroy them completely. If you notice any bent sections of the track Try to straighten them by using tools like pliers or a hammer along with a block of wood. However, severe bends may require professional repair or even replacement.

If these simple fixes don't work, you might need to replace the track. In this situation you can purchase a kit at a variety of hardware stores to allow you to fix a new track onto the existing one. The track replacement kits are available in various lengths and can be cut to fit your particular doors.


It's also recommended to speak with an experienced Detroit sliding door contractor when your track is showing major wear or is breaking or bending in any way. In most cases, the professionals will be able determine the root of the issue and suggest a solution that is both secure and efficient.

Repairing Broken Tracks

In many cases the patio door that is stuck or difficult to move is the result of dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris build up over time, and if the tracks are bent or damaged, they may require professional repair or replacement to function properly. There are ways to identify the issue and repair it yourself.

Examine the track first to make sure it's not blocked by anything other than dust or rust. If the track is blocked and needs to be cleaned thoroughly, a brush and mild detergent should remove the obstructions and restore smooth movement.

Next, check the rollers for any catching or sticking. A damaged or broken door roller can cause it to stick. It can also lead to further track damage, which will require professional repair or replacement. It is possible to resolve the issue if the rollers are not damaged by lubricating the rollers. A silicone-based lubricant can reduce friction between the rollers on the track and the door.

A misaligned roller can also cause your sliding door to stick or become difficult to operate. To fix this issue find the adjusting screw for the rollers. Adjust them until they are aligned properly with the track.

Another common cause of an unmovable or stuck patio door is the worn weather stripping. You can easily replace the weather stripping by removing it from the bottom of the fixed panel and then from the jamb by using a screwdriver. Then, you can take the old strip off and then install the new one in.

If the track is badly bent, it's best to leave it to an experienced patio door contractor who will fix the issue and ensure the track is securely in place without further damage or bends. If your track is slightly bent or kinked, you can straighten it using a pair metal-bending pliers. If you're unable to straighten the track by yourself make use of a mallet made from rubber and a piece of wood to hit the bent section of the track until it's completely straight.

Repairing Damaged Rollers

Rollers can be the reason behind noisy sliding patio doors, or difficulties in rolling. As time passes, the rollers become stiff and filthy. This causes the door to rub on the track, causing noise. To fix the problem clean the track on the bottom first before lubricating your rollers. Once the rollers are cleaned, you can put the door back on its tracks. Reattach any clips or braces used to keep the door in place after it was taken from its frame.

It is best to have a trusted friend assist you in lifting up the sliding patio door and then tilt it toward you. This will release it from the bottom track. Set the sliding patio door on a stable flat surface like tables or sawhorses. Remove any grilles, or shades from the doors. Remove any screws holding the head stop molding. (Photo 2). This step isn't required on some older aluminum doors but is a good idea if you have it. Then, remove the screws that adjust the height of rollers at both ends of the door frame. This screw controls roller height. Turning it counterclockwise will raise the rollers, and clockwise will lower them.

It is beneficial to have someone close by to assist you in disengaging the rollers. You'll need tools such as an screwdriver with Phillips heads and a pry-bar or a strong putty blade for this. After the rollers have been removed from the dust cap, take them away from the wheel mechanisms and clean them. Then, wipe the roller surfaces using alcohol to get rid of any remaining dirt or residue. Once the rollers are cleaned, apply lubrication using an lubricant made of silicone that smothers dirt and keeps them moving smoothly.

Install the door by first placing the top of the door into the track, then swinging in the bottom. It is crucial to install the new rollers in a proper manner to ensure that they are at their highest point within the frame of the track. This will allow doors to slide into place effortlessly without rubbing against the tracks.

Repairing Damaged Wheels

Most often, a patio door is dragging because the wheels have worn out. Inspect both sets of wheels and replace them if necessary. Clean the tracks as well to stop grit from damaging the wheels. Straighten bent tracks by using pliers or by hitting a block of wooden against the bent portion with the hammer. If the wheels are still worn, consider an edging cover for the track. Installation is simple and takes less than one hour.