How to Repair Sliding Glass Doors

Adjusting and Repair a Sliding Door

Introduction:

Like all doors sliding doors need occasional adjustments to keep them working smoothly. When a sliding door doesn’t work correctly the problem is usually that the rollers have come off the track or the door is rubbing on the track rather than rolling on the rollers. In most cases you can adjust the rollers without removing the door but in some cases it must be removed.

Adjusting a sliding door:

1.    Insure that the door track area is clean of all debris.

2.    If the track needs lubrication use a small amount of WD40 on a cloth and wipe the track along its length. Do not leave excess lubricant on the track because it will attract dust and dirt. The track should be cleaned and lubricated at least twice a year.

3.    To adjust the rollers use a common screwdriver to remove the adjust screw plugs to access the adjustment screws. There are two screws on each sliding panel. Turn the screws clockwise to raise the door panel or counter clockwise to lower it. Adjust the door until it travels smoothly along the track.

4.    If the track is bent, use a block of wood and a mallet to straighten it. 

Removing a sliding door panel:

1. Most sliding doors are assembled the same way. To remove the sliding door panel first remove the trim strip along the top of the door panel that holds the panel in the upper door track. Depending on the size of the door there are six to eight screws in the trim strip.

2. Be careful that the panel does not inadvertently fall inward when removing the trim strip.

3. Remove the panel inward by picking it up approximately one inch. The door can be quite heavy so two people may be required to remove the panel.

4. Place the panel on sawhorses to make any repairs.

5. Inspect the rollers to see if they’re broken or have come loose. If the problem is just a loose roller, tighten or replace the loose support screws. Most sliders have a simple adjustment on the roller bracket.  

6. If the door rollers are damaged replace them. Replacement rollers can be obtained from a hardware store, the window supply company or directly from the manufacturer. 

7. Check the door track to see if it is worn or bent or if the guide is misaligned. Misaligned rails can be knocked back into alignment with a hammer and a wooden block.

8. If the door latch or lock mechanism is bent, remove it and clamp it in a vise to make adjustments. Use pliers to bend the latch to the proper angle. Replace the mechanism and check the latch operation. Replace the mechanism if necessary.

Reinstall the sliding panel in the reverse order and check for proper operation.

Related articles:

How to Install Interior Doors

How to Install an Exterior Door

How to Repair Sliding Screen Doors

How to Replace a Door

How to Select the Best Windows

How to Tint Your Windows

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