Before you replace anything, clean the track. Sand, grit, pet hair and dead bugs pile up in the bottom rail and act like a brake on the rollers. In Florida that buildup happens fast, especially near the beach or a pool deck.
Steps
Open the door all the way
Slide the panel to one side so you can reach the full length of the track. Then do the other side.
Vacuum the loose debris
Run the crevice tool along both sides of the rail and into the corners. Most of the grit comes out here.
Loosen the packed-in dirt
Use the brush and putty knife to scrape out anything stuck in the channels and around the rail. Vacuum again.
Wash and wipe
Spray warm soapy water along the track, scrub, then wipe it dry with rags. Near the coast, finish with a fresh-water wipe to lift salt.
Clear the weep holes
Look for small slots on the outside face of the bottom frame. Push a pipe cleaner or thin wire through to make sure water can drain.
Lubricate lightly
Once it is fully dry, spray a light coat of dry silicone on the rail. Skip oil and grease. They hold dirt and make the problem worse.
Test the door
Slide it open and shut several times. If it now glides, you are done. If it is still heavy or rough, the rollers are worn.
See it
If the door still drags after a thorough cleaning, or you can see a dent or groove worn into the rail, the problem is the rollers or the track itself.
Find a pro near you →