Keeping sliding door tracks clean is essential for maintaining smooth and quiet operation. Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate in the tracks over time, causing friction and hindering the movement of the door. Here’s how to effectively clean sliding door tracks to make them quieter:
- Remove debris: Start by opening the sliding door fully to access the tracks. For larger items use a vacuum cleaner with a narrow attachment or a small brush to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris from the tracks. For dust we have found a small amount of a gentle cleaning agent such as WD40 on a cloth or tissue helps to clean the track
- Lubrication: After cleaning, apply a silicone-based lubricant (not WD40) to the bearings in the centre of the rollers. This lubrication reduces friction, allowing the door to glide smoothly along the tracks with minimal noise. Avoid using oil-based lubricants as they can attract more dust and dirt.
- Inspect for Damage: While cleaning, inspect the tracks for any signs of damage, such as dents, bends, or rust. Replace damaged track sections to ensure smooth movement of the sliding door.
- Soft-Close Mechanism: Install a soft-close mechanism to slow down the closing speed of the door. This prevents slamming and reduces noise levels, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Upgrade to Larger Wheels: Consider replacing the existing system with a kit that has larger wheels. Larger wheels have a greater surface area in contact with the track, distributing weight more evenly and reducing pressure. The large diameter also rolls slower and this results in smoother movement and less noise as the door rolls along the track.
By following these steps and implementing appropriate measures, you can effectively reduce the noise generated by sliding doors, creating a more peaceful and comfortable living or working space. Regular maintenance and periodic inspections are essential to ensure continued quiet operation and prolong the lifespan of the door hardware.
If you are still having problems please contact us and we will see how we can help.
