Keep Your Sliding Doors Working Smoothly All Summer Long

It’s summertime, and the weather is perfect for outdoor parties and grilling. With all the people coming in and out of the house, patio doors will get a heavy workout, and sticky doors can quickly spoil a sunny day. Imagine trying to open a stuck patio door with one foot while balancing an armload of food and drinks — not the best way to have fun in the sun. Keep patio doors sliding smoothly by following these simple maintenance tips.

Clean the Track

Oftentimes, the best fix is a quick and simple cleaning. A sliding door may get stuck simply because the track is cluttered with dirt and debris. Regular cleaning and vacuuming of the track will keep the door from getting stuck and will help it open and shut more easily. When cleaning, be sure to clean the “weep holes” — the little holes or slats in the outside track wall that help drain rain water. This will prevent clogs that can lead to leaks.

Check the Door Alignment

Fighting with a stubborn patio door that won’t seem to move? If the door is sticking or jamming, and the track seems free of debris, the door alignment may be off. Adjusting the door can be as easy as tightening or loosening the screws at the bottom of the door panel. These may be on the outside panel or on the inside edge of the door. Make sure the door has a second set of screws on the other end — both sets may need to be adjusted.

When adjusting the door, turning the screws clockwise will raise the door and counter-clockwise will lower it. It may take some “trial-and-error” to figure out whether the door needs to be lowered or raised. (Hint: try raising the door first, since scraping on the bottom is often the problem.)

After adjusting the door, check the “reveal” (the gap between the door and the frame) to make sure it’s even all the way across and the door is not tilted. Also check that the door lock is aligned and the latch fits correctly into the strike plate.

Lubricate the Door Wheels

At least once a year, remove the sliding door from the frame, clean off any dirt from the wheels and lubricate the wheels with a silicone spray (avoid WD-40, as this tends to trap dirt). It’s also good practice to clean the track at the same time, so the wheels don’t immediately get dirty again.

Regular maintenance of patio doors is key. Cleaning the track and checking alignment a few times a month can help keep doors sliding the way they should — eliminating those awkward party moments.