In this article we will take a look at a few steps you can take to fix a sticky sliding door. While sliding patio doors are a convenient way to access your outdoor living area, a sticky sliding door can be a nuisance. While there are various nuances for specific brands, I found this video on how to repair an Anderson Sliding Patio Door. Your sliding door may be a different brand, but the basic premise is the same. Remove it, clean it, fix it, lube it, and adjust it!
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHFFaTs2G1Y?rel=0&w=560&h=315]
7 Steps for Repairing a Sticky Sliding Door
Step 1, Removing the Door: The first thing you need to do is to remove the sliding door. To do this you will need to remove the top guide retaining strip. With the guide removed you can tilt the top of the door inward and remove it from the lower track. It’s a good idea to have a spare set of hands for this step. Otherwise; you may end up lying on the floor with the glass door resting on top of you. Not a pretty sight!
Step 2, Clean the Wheels: With the door on its side you can access the lower rollers. Pet hair and dirt can build up around the rollers and the tiny axles. Remove any foreign material until the rollers move freely. I like to lubricate the bearings with a white lithium grease or silicone spray to keep them running smooth over time. A little lubrication reduces the effort required to open and close the doors.
Step 3, Cleaning the Track: With the door removed you will have better access to the lower track. This area tends to accumulate a buildup of dirt and debris over time. Wipe the track clean with a shop rag. You can apply a little silicone spray to the track as you clean it. This will also help the door glide easily when you put everything back together.
Step 4, Lubricate the Mating Edge: The point where the two doors overlap can stick together at times, especially if you don’t use your patio doors often. Apply a thin film of the silicone spray to the mating strip of both doors.
Step 5, Lubricate the Upper Guide: With both doors removed you will notice some areas on the top guide that have wear points. Be sure to thoroughly clean these, then apply a thin film of the silicone spray.
Step 6, Adjust the Door Height: Place the sliding doors back in the track. Remount the retaining strip, then take close look at the gap on the top side of the door. If the door is too close to the upper track and rubs a little, you may need to adjust the height of the door itself. In the case of the Anderson doors in the video, you can use an Allen Wrench or screw driver to raise or lower the door for the optimum operating height. In most cases, turning the adjustment screw clockwise will raise the door, while turning the screw counterclockwise will lower the door.
Step 7, Lubricate the Foam Seals: Most sliding doors have a foam seal between the inner and outer doors to create an airtight seal. This can be just enough to cause a sticky sliding door. A little lube in this area is the answer.
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Need assistance repairing or replacing a sticky sliding door? Contact our support team at (815)-634-8922.
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