How to Fix Sliding Patio Door Track Repair
Sliding patio doors are convenient and attractive, but with time they can develop problems that make them difficult to operate. These issues are typically caused by dirty or damaged tracks or rollers. They can be fixed using WD-40 and a thorough cleaning.
Use your vacuum cleaner to remove any heavy dirt and debris. Then, scrub the track using a brush and cleaning product and slide the door forward and backwards often. Finally apply a silicone-based oil to lessen friction.
Repairing Dented Tracks
Patio doors are a stunning addition to a home, but if they stop sliding or don't open properly, it can be a stressful experience. The good thing is that in many cases, a few simple steps can allow your sliding door return to its normal operation.
Dirt in the track channels can be a major cause of doors that are stuck or is difficult to move. The best method to address this is to disconnect the door from the track and wash it thoroughly. You can make use of a toothbrush to get rid of the dirt and grime that is deeper. When the track is clear and dry, a silicone-based lubricant may be applied to prevent future problems.
It is also essential to inspect the rollers for any damage or misalignment. The rollers are at the bottom of the door and assist to direct it along the track. If these are damaged or not aligned properly the doors will become more difficult to move and may require replacement.
It is also important to check the tracks for bends or damage. Inward bends can bind and make the door unusable, while outward bends can cause a jolt to the rollers, or even derail them completely. If you notice any bent sections of the track You can try to straighten them by using pliers or a hammer and block of wood. However, severe bends may require professional repair or even replacement.
If these simple fixes do not work, you may have 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. These track replacement kits come in a variety of lengths and can be cut to fit the specific door.
In the end, it's an excellent idea to call a professional Detroit sliding door contractor when your track is showing obvious wear or is bending or breaking in some way. In the majority of cases, professionals will be able to determine the root cause of the problem and suggest solutions that are both safe and effective.
Repairing Broken Tracks
In most instances, a patio door that's stuck or difficult to move is due to dirt or damage to the track. Dirt and debris can build up over time, and if tracks are damaged or bent they may require repair or replacement by a professional to work properly. There are ways you can identify the issue and fix it yourself.
First, examine the track to make sure it is not obstructed by any other factor than dust or rust. If the track is obstructed and needs to be cleaned thoroughly, a brush and mild detergent should eliminate the obstructions and bring back the smoothness of the movement.
Next, inspect the rollers to ensure they are not sticking or catching. A damaged or broken roller can cause the door to stick and could result in further damage to the track, which could require repair or replacement by a professional. You may be able solve the problem when the rollers aren't damaged by lubricating them. A silicone-based lubricant will reduce friction between the rollers on the track and the door.
A misaligned roller could make your sliding door stick or be difficult to operate. To fix this problem, locate the adjusting screw for the rollers. Adjust them until they are aligned properly with the track.
Another common cause for an unmovable or stuck patio door is the worn weather stripping. You can replace this 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 away and sinking the new one.
If sliding patio door lock repair is severely bent, give it to a professional patio contractor. They can correct the problem and ensure that the track is in place without any further damage or bends. If your track is bent or kinked you can straighten it using a pair metal-bending pliers. If you're unable to straighten the track on your own make use of a rubber hammer and a piece of wood. Continue to hit the bent section until it is straight.
Repairing Damaged Rollers
Rollers can be the reason behind noisy sliding patio doors or problems in rolling. They can get dirty and stiff with time, which causes the door to slide against the track, and then become noisy. To fix the problem clean the track at the bottom first before lubricating your rollers. After the rollers have been cleaned and smooth, you can place the door back on its tracks. This is a good moment to attach any braces or clips that held the door in place after it was removed from the frame.
It is recommended to have a trusted friend assist you in lifting the sliding patio door and tilt it toward you. This will free it from the bottom track. Set the sliding patio door on a sturdy, 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 take if you have one. Then, take out the screw for adjustment on each end of the door frame. The screw controls the height of the rollers and turning it clockwise lowers the rollers and counterclockwise raises them.
A friend can be helpful during this process since you will need to use tools, such as a Phillips-head screwdriver, and possibly pry bar or stiff putty knife, to remove the rollers from the tracks. When the rollers are free from the dust cap, take them away from the wheel mechanisms and scrub them. Then, wash the surface of the rollers with alcohol to get rid of any dirt or residue. After the rollers are cleaned, lubricate them using an lubricant made of silicone that smothers dirt and keeps them sliding effortlessly.
Reinstall the door by placing the top portion of the doors on the track, and then bringing the bottom part of the door in. Reinstalling the rollers in the track frame at their highest point is important. This will allow the doors to slide into place easily without rubbing on the tracks.
Repairing Damaged Wheels
The wheels of a patio door could be worn out, which is the reason it drags. Replace the wheels if needed. Clean the tracks too to stop grit from damaging the wheels. If the tracks are bent, straighten them with pliers or by placing a block of wood against the bent part and hitting it with the hammer. If the tracks are worn, consider a track sill cover. (See Photo 5) Installation is simple and takes less than an hour.