Sliding Door Problems

A sliding door should glide easily and be able to be opened using only one hand.

Although regular inspection and cleaning of sliding door rollers and tracks can help keep a door operating smoothly, if the rollers are completely worn out a new door may be the only solution.

Dirty Rollers

Dirty rollers are the main cause of sliding door problems, according to This Old House. Dirt, mud, food or hair can stick to the rollers and clog the track of a sliding door, causing the rollers to become immovable and the door to get stuck. Use a flat-head screwdriver to remove the rollers, scrape the dirt from the rollers and wipe them with denatured alcohol and a rag. Vacuum the track thoroughly to remove debris and wipe stuck-on particles with a damp cloth. Lubricate the track with a block of paraffin wax.

Misaligned Rollers

Misaligned rollers can cause a sliding door to stick or not slide at all. Look closely at the door to locate two screw holes or plugs on the sides or front of the door. Use a screwdriver to pop the plugs off and turn the screws inside until the door lifts. Look underneath at the roller wheels to determine if they are in good condition or are worn out, bent or broken and in need of replacement. Manually realign the rollers as needed if they are in good condition.

Additional Tips

Keep the door sliding smoothly by vacuuming the track well each time the room is cleaned. If the door remains immovable after attempts to fix the rollers, the door may have been installed incorrectly or there may be a more serious structural problem, such as an undersized header above the door or a rotten sill. Contact a remodeling contractor for a professional opinion.

References

• This Old House: Sliding Door Tune-Up
• This Old House: Sliding Glass Door Doesn't Slide