How To Adjust Sliding Patio Doors

Sliding patio doors are a great way to add light and ventilation to your home, but they can also be a source of frustration if they're not working properly. If your sliding patio door is sticking, binding, or rattling, there are a few simple adjustments you can make to get it working smoothly again. Here's how to adjust sliding patio doors:

1. Check the track

The first step is to check the track that the door slides on. Make sure that it's clean and free of any debris. If the track is dirty, use a vacuum cleaner to remove the debris. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe down the track.

2. Adjust the rollers

The rollers are what allow the door to slide smoothly on the track. If the rollers are not adjusted properly, the door can stick or bind. To adjust the rollers, use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the rollers in place. Once the screws are loose, you can adjust the rollers up or down until the door slides smoothly.

3. Adjust the strike plate

The strike plate is the metal plate that the door latch catches on when the door is closed. If the strike plate is not adjusted properly, the door may not latch properly or may rattle when it's closed. To adjust the strike plate, use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the strike plate in place. Once the screws are loose, you can move the strike plate up or down until the door latches properly.

4. Lubricate the track and rollers

Once you have adjusted the rollers and strike plate, you should lubricate the track and rollers. This will help to keep the door moving smoothly and prevent it from sticking or binding. To lubricate the track and rollers, use a silicone-based lubricant. Apply the lubricant to the track and rollers, and then wipe off any excess lubricant.

5. Test the door

Once you have made the adjustments, test the door to make sure that it is working properly. Open and close the door several times to make sure that it slides smoothly and latches properly. If the door is still not working properly, you may need to call a professional to make further adjustments.