Spring DIY Jobs – How to Clean Sliding Door Tracks

Introduction

Spring is in the air. Time to refresh your home ready for the new season. The tracks in which sliding doors slide can become dirty and cluttered over time – affecting their smooth operation. This is extremely important for coastal properties, as the sea air is known to leave deposits, so regular cleaning and maintenance will help you avoid this issue. We have provided you with a step-by-step guide on how to clean sliding door tracks.

Tools and Materials Required for Cleaning Sliding Doors

Before starting the sliding door track cleaning process, gathering all the necessary tools and materials is important to ensure the job is done efficiently and effectively. Here is a list of items you will need:

• Handheld Vacuum Cleaner with a Brush Attachment – this will help to remove any loose dirt and debris from the surface of the door tracks before cleaning.
• Duster or Microfiber Cloth – this can be used to remove any loose dust and debris from the door tracks
• Soft-Bristled Brush – this can be used to scrub any stubborn spots or grime on the tracks.
• Mild Detergent Solution (or white vinegar solution and baking soda) – this will be used to deep clean the tracks and remove any built-up dirt and grime. A mild detergent solution can be purchased from a supermarket, or you can make a solution of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) as an eco-friendlier alternative.
• Sponge or Cloth and Spray Bottle for Cleaning – this will be used to apply the cleaning solution to the tracks.
• Sturdy Bucket – this will be used to mix the cleaning solution with your warm water to create the perfect cleaning solution.
• Dry Cloth for Wiping – this will be used to dry and clean sliding glass door tracks and remove any remaining soap or water residue.

Having all the necessary tools and materials on hand will help make the cleaning process smoother and more efficient.

Please also remember that it is important to note that some door tracks may have different cleaning requirements, so always check the manufacturer’s instructions before starting the cleaning process.

Preparing the Sliding Door Cleaning Area

Before cleaning the sliding door tracks, it is important to prepare the area for cleaning to ensure the process is carried out safely and efficiently. Here are our suggested best steps to follow:

1. Clear any furniture and other items away from the door to provide enough space for cleaning
2. Lay down a protective covering, such as a dust sheet or old newspaper, to prevent scratches to the floor or surrounding surfaces
3. Use a handheld vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any dirt, dust, and debris from the surface of the tracks. This will make cleaning the tracks easier and more effective

Cleaning Sliding Door Tracks

Cleaning the tracks of your bifold or sliding doors is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow:

• Mix a mild detergent solution (or a mixture of water and white vinegar and water)
• Use a cloth or sponge to apply the cleaning solution to the tracks, starting from one end and working your way to the other
• If there are any stubborn spots or grime, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub them
• Make sure to clean and rinse the track, paying extra attention to the corners and crevices where dirt and grime can accumulate

Drying Sliding Bifold Doors Tracks

After cleaning the tracks, it’s important to dry them thoroughly to prevent any water damage or rust. Here are the steps to follow:

• Use a dry cloth to wipe the tracks thoroughly, making sure to remove any remaining soap or water residue
• Open and close the sliding doors a few times to ensure that all parts of the tracks have been dried
• Leave the sliding glass doors open for a few hours to allow the tracks to dry completely
• Consider using a fan or blower to help speed up the drying process, especially if the weather is cold or wet outside

Maintaining Your Clean Sliding Door Tracks

Cleaning your bifold or sliding door tracks regularly can help maintain their smooth operation and prolong their lifespan.

Here are some tips for maintaining clean bifold door tracks:

• Vacuum the tracks once a week to remove any loose dirt and debris
• Clean the tracks every three to six months or as needed, depending on the amount of use
• Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks after cleaning to help prevent rust and ensure smooth operation
• If the tracks are rusty, use a rust remover and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to remove the rust and protect the tracks from further rusting

By following these easy and simple tips, will help to ensure that your bifold or sliding doors operate smoothly and last many years.

Sliding Door Projects

We have a selection of our sliding door projects in Berkshire, Surrey, Hampshire and the wider area available to read on our website.

If you have any questions or queries about your sliding door project please do not hesitate to contact us.

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