How to Fix a Sliding Door That Won’t Open

Sliding doors should operate like the Jawa Sandcrawler from Tatooine; if yours is acting up, don’t panic – there are some simple troubleshooting steps you can try before consulting with a door repair expert.

fix a sliding door that won't open

Is It Jammed?

First, determine whether or not your lock is jammed; this could involve something as simple as placing your key in the wrong location, or it could indicate a component has become detached from itself. With latch-type locks, removing their latch body reveals springs and actuators which pull up or down, and then you can tweeze or pry away the debris that has blocked movement of your door to get it moving again.

Is the Track Dirty?

One of the primary factors preventing the sliding door from being easy to open is its dirty track. Begin by wiping it down with a damp cloth, using an old toothbrush if necessary to scrub any caked-on grime off it before applying lubricant for reduced friction and smoother door operation.

Is It Bent?

Another frequent door track issue is bending. Reshape any bent tracks using pliers or hammers and wooden blocks. Add silicone-based lubricant to reduce friction and make the door easier to open.

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Check Your Rollers

Sometimes rollers can also make opening a sliding door challenging. If possible, remove and lay out the door on sawhorses, unscrewing all screws holding stop molding in place to unfasten it, then lift out of its frame by lifting it up with the help of someone with a hammer or pry tool.

Once the door has been reinstalled and adjusted to your specifications, install new adjuster screws and test its operability to see if it now opens smoothly. If not, structural issues (like sagging walls) may require professional attention; it is always advisable to hire an outside service to handle such repairs if you feel uncertain about performing them yourself.

More tips on how fix a sliding door alignment – Read this post or Give us a call at: (416) 464-9099