Our sliding glass door to the backyard has become more difficult to open and I'm wondering what can be done, if some type of lubricant is supposed to be used or does it need some repair to the metal track or the door itself. Any suggestions/resources are appreciated.

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Originally Posted by rozwitte

Our sliding glass door to the backyard has become more difficult to open and I'm wondering what can be done, if some type of lubricant is supposed to be used or does it need some repair to the metal track or the door itself. Any suggestions/resources are appreciated.

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did you check to make sure it haven't jump out of the track or 1 of the wheels isn't missing

First check the condition and alignment of the rollers as the previous posts have suggested. If all is in order, try this, even if it seems goofy. PAM cooking spray on the rollers/track. Prior to this, blow/vacuum any crud from the rollers/track, and maybe use some WD-40 to loosen crusted crud. I realize that the PAM may attract and hold dirt, but regular cleaning and lubrication might work. My patio door that required much effort to move, now slides with one finger. Try it, you have nothing to lose.

You shouldn't use anything liquid or greasy (like oil or grease) because they attract and hold dirt and crud which builds up and defeats the purpose. (Also you don't want to be stepping on a greasy track.) Instead use a silicon spray, paraffin block (or candle!) or graphite lubricant (often used in door locks; look for it in the 'keys' department at home stores.) Obviously clean the track as best you can first. You may find significant friction coming from the sides - where the door scrapes along the trim work that keeps out the rain. Lubricate that as well if just working the track doesn't improve things enough.

The first rule is NEVER use WD40 (which is intended primarily to displace liquid contaminants in electrical components) as it is a displacing agent and NOT a lubricant. If you have ever had the misfortune of applying it to the inside of a home or car door lock you will know just how quickly the lock develops terminal cancer.
I applied light machine oil to the door tracks, which aids in flushing away solid contaminants by reducing stiction, followed some weeks later by an application of a bead silicone grease and the once noisy doors are now noticeably quieter and easier to move. Both these products are on the shelf at your local hardware store.

Had trouble with mine years ago and thought I'd have to do some major work like removing the door and replacing the rollers. However, I found that wasn't necessary... fortunately! I vacuumed out the track and used silicone spray on the rollers. I attached the wand to the silicone spray can so I could spray the roller shaft (bearing area)in addition to the track itself. Now I keep the track clean and spray the rollers every two years or so. Only takes a couple minutes. Door rolls like new!

You can always go to "Slide-Ezzz" Sliding Door Repair Products. They have universal sliding glass door repair products that fix most every sliding door. They're web site is www.slide-ezzz.com. Be sure to check out the "Testimonials" page...