How to Maintain Your Sliding Patio Doors

Sliding patio doors give you the ability to open up your space invitingly and elegantly. No matter which style you choose for your home or business, you want to make sure they last for years to come. With the proper care and service, patio doors can last more than 30 years.

Sliding Patio Doors That Work Properly

A sliding patio door should be as easy to open as your favorite beverage. Ease of opening is just as important as your family or guests that walk through these doorways. A sliding patio door works appropriately if:

• You don’t have to force it to open.
• The door does not swing slightly off the ground from left to right.
• You don’t have to lift it, then slide it.
• You don’t have to jiggle it.

Performing DIY Sliding Patio Door Maintenance

Sliding patio door maintenance can take less than 10 minutes. Routine care should be done in the spring and fall or every time you notice debris building up in the track. Disinfecting the handles and high-touch areas can be done as often as you feel is necessary. Don’t be in a hurry with these steps to avoid accidentally pinched fingers.

1. Start by vacuuming out the track crevices both on top and on the bottom. Do this when the door is closed. Open the door and repeat on the other side. Remove as much pet hair, paperclips, trash, or other debris as possible.
2. Wipe down the top and bottom tracks with a damp cloth while the door is both in a closed and open position. Ensure the fabric or sponge is not wet but damp enough to remove residual dust and dirt the vacuum left behind.
3. Wipe down the glass with your favorite glass cleaner. Wipe the handles with your favorite disinfectant.
4. When the tracks are dry, spray the tracks with a high-quality silicone lubricant spray. Don’t over-lubricate. Lubricating the slide helps prevent rust and corrosion.
5. Test the sliding patio door by moving it back and forth to make sure it works with ease.

Tips for Advanced Cleaning

If you’re physically capable of it and it’s safe to do so, consider removing the sliding patio door from its rollers to access the entire track. If you spot any rust or corrosion on the track or rollers, consider using some steel wool to scrub it off. If you see any cracks or cannot remove the rust, consider contacting a qualified sliding patio door repair expert for assistance.