How to Easily Replace a Sliding Screen Door Track for Smooth Performance

Replacing a sliding screen door track may at first seem intimidating, but the job doesn’t have to be complicated. The first step is to remove the door, so you have access to the track. Depending on the size of the door, you may need somebody to help you with this step. To remove the door, simply grip both of the sides and lift gently until the roller is clear of the track. Then, pull the bottom of the door outwards, and it should come free. Do the same with the other door.

Once the door is out of the frame, carefully remove any dirt from the door track and examine it to see if it has been damaged or bent. If it hasn’t been damaged then simply clean it and lubricate the rollers and you may not need to replace the entire track. However, if the track has been damaged, it’s best to replace the entire thing. Remove the old door track by taking out the screws that hold it in place. If you have someone to help, have them hold down one end of the track so it doesn’t buckle as you move it. Measure the length of the old track so you know how long the new one needs to be.

The next step is to go to the local hardware or home improvement store and find a replacement track. Take the old track with you as a guide for finding a compatible size. Hold the old track against the new one to compare the size and make sure the holes line up. If the new track is too long, you will need to cut it to the right length using a hacksaw. Do the same for the track which is to be installed at the top of the frame.

Once you have the new tracks cut to the right size, it’s time to attach them to the frame. Screw the new tracks in place with the replacement screws provided. Clean the door rollers with a brush and denatured alcohol and be sure to apply some lubricant to the rollers. Be sure to wipe off the excess lubricant with a rag.

To finish the job, you will need to get the doors back in place and check the smoothness of the track. Have somebody help you with this step. Place each door by lifting them into the upper track at an angle. Bounce the rollers back into the lower track and then test the doors to make sure they slide as they should. If they move smoothly, the job should be complete! While it may take some time and patience, replacing a sliding screen door track is a fairly simple job that you can do yourself. With the right tools, you can make the necessary repairs to your sliding screen doors to enjoy their convenience and security for years to come.