If your sliding door snags or doesn’t slide easily, the issue could be as simple as dirt or rust that builds up on the track. Lubrication can also help, especially if the problem is caused by friction between the rollers and the track. You can buy a can of silicone-based lubricant at most home centers, and the same product will work well for any type of door track or roller. Be sure to use a non-petroleum-based lubricant, as oil attracts dirt and dust faster than silicone.
Clean the Track
First, make sure there’s no obvious damage to the track or rollers. If there is, you’ll need to remove the door and replace the damaged parts before continuing. If the issue is purely dirty, you can clean the tracks by using a vacuum cleaner or stiff brush to remove dirt from the grooves. You can also scrub them with a toothbrush or scrub brush and some denatured alcohol, and then apply an aerosol lubricant.
Lubricating the Rollers
Before removing your sliding door repair, you can apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks and rollers. This will decrease friction and make the door easier to open. The key is to be careful not to overdo it, since too much lubricant can cause the rollers to slip or come off the tracks. You can also replace the rollers if they’re damaged or worn out.
Broken Rollers
If your rollers are worn out or damaged, it’s possible that the door won’t slide smoothly even with the tracks and lubrication in good condition. If this is the case, you’ll need to purchase replacement rollers and install them on the doors according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Misaligned Track and Rollers
In addition to dirt, another common reason for a stuck door is that the tracks and rollers are misaligned. This can happen when the track has inward or outward bends. Inward bends pinch the door and prevent it from sliding, while outward ones throw the rollers off the track. In most cases, you can fix these types of problems by visually inspecting the track and using pliers or a hammer and block of wood to correct any bends in the track.
If your door catches or won’t latch, you can remove the door and loosen the screws that hold the stop molding to clear the way for access to the track. You can then loosen the plastic plugs and unscrew the adjustment screws to adjust the roller height. Make sure the door is level before screwing the adjuster in, and then readjust it as needed when everything is back in place.
Door On The Go
10 Rosseau Rd #4, Toronto, ON M3H 3G2, Canada
(416) 464-9099