The appeal of sliding doors can be traced to two qualities: their aesthetics and functionality. Most sliding doors are sleek and elegant, being largely made of glass. And, they’re easy to open; a slight push is all you need to slide them open. 

At the same time, however, these two qualities are also the root of sliding doors’ fragility. Glass can easily be broken, and sliding doors’ rollers can easily get stuck. 

This doesn’t mean a sliding glass door isn’t a viable option for homeowners; they still are. It’s just that you need to take care when handling them. Renewal by Andersen® of San Diego, a top window contractor in the state, shows you how to care for them below. 

Clean and Lubricate the Roller Tracks

Sliding doors’ roller tracks are usually plagued by two issues: rust and grime. These two can impede the rollers, making it harder for you to slide the doors open. 

Lubricating the tracks regularly can help prevent rust buildup. To clean the tracks, run a damp cloth along the tracks and rollers; for more stubborn grime, use a toothbrush to scrub them off. The rollers should be cleaned every six months. 

If, however, you have sliding patio doors, you may need to clean the rollers more frequently. Grime and dirt buildup is faster for patio doors because they’re nearer to your garden. 

Handle Sliding Doors Glass With Care

Don’t push your sliding doors too hard as the resulting impact can damage the tracks or the glass area. 

It would also be a good idea to regularly clean the glass area at least once a week, given that stains become harder to remove the longer they stay on the glass. 

If you keep encountering issues with your sliding doors despite frequently cleaning and maintaining them, installation problems might be the root issue. That’s why you should only hire reputable contractors. 

Renewal by Andersen of San Diego offers a wide range of premium window and door options, from hinged french doors to sliding patio doors. To set up a free consultation, call us at (858) 877-5172, or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in San Diego, CA.