Last Updated on November 12, 2022
Have you ever observed that water collects in your sliding glass door tracks after a rainfall? Your slidable glass door track may have even developed small puddles after heavy rains. Water accumulated on the door track can cause it to rust, making it inconvenient to open and close the door.
During a storm, it is common to see water on the track of sliding glass doors or windows, especially when the storm is windy. But have you ever wondered why the track of your sliding glass door fills with water?
While this problem may seem perplexing, there is a simple explanation and solution. Discover why your sliding patio door track may be filled with water and how to prevent it by reading on.
Why Does My Sliding Glass Door Track Fill with Water : Explained
One of the most common problems with sliding glass doors is that water can build up in the track, making it difficult to slide the door open and closed. There are a few different reasons why this may happen.
Most sliding doors are not perfectly level so that rainwater can run into the track and pool. It’s common for doors to have an S-shaped track, which acts like a funnel and can cause water to accumulate more quickly.
In some cases, the weatherstripping around the door may be worn or damaged, allowing moisture to seep through gaps that worsen the problem. Also, the drain holes or weep holes in the track may be blocked, causing water to pool.
Whatever the cause, it’s essential to clean out the track regularly to prevent water from buildup, but if the problem persists, you may need immediate action to fix it.
How to Fix a Sliding Glass Door Track that Fills With Water?
Sliding doors are great for letting in natural light and fresh air, but the tracks can become filled with water from trash accumulating. Due to this, the door is difficult to operate smoothly. If you find yourself struggling to open your sliding glass door, it might be time to clean out the tracks.
Cleaning the tracks of your sliding glass patio door is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s how:
Step 01. Identify the Reason:
When attempting to fix your waterlogged sliding glass door track, you must first identify the cause. The most likely culprit is a leak in the door seal. Over time, the sealant around the door can degrade, allowing water to seep in.
An improper drainage system is another common cause of a sliding glass door track filling with water. If the track is not sloped correctly, water will pool in the track rather than drain away. The drainage holes in the track will also accumulate water if they are blocked.
Step 02. Clean the Roller Threshold Track:
As soon as the cause is determined, it’s time to take action. Begin cleaning the roller threshold track. This is the metal track at the bottom of the door that rollers ride on. Use a vacuum to remove debris.
You can also use a soft brush to wipe away any buildup. If the track is filthy, you can use a mild soap and water solution to clean it. Be sure to rinse off any soap residue with clean warm water.
Water can also corrode the rollers, so cleaning them frequently is necessary. Be sure to check the seals around the door to make sure they’re intact. Replacing worn or broken seals will help keep water out of the track in the future.
Step 03. Clean the Weep Holes on the Track:
The water drain holes on the track are designed to allow water to drain away, but over time they can become clogged with particles. If water is allowed to build up in the track, it can cause the door to jam or fail to close correctly.
Use a toothpick or other sharp object to clear any blockages from the holes. If the holes are significantly blocked, you may need a wire brush to clean them out. Be sure to work slowly and gently to avoid damaging the track.
Once the holes are clear, rinse the track with clean water to remove any residual particles. Once the holes are clear, test the door to ensure it operates smoothly.
By taking the time to clean the drainage holes on the track of a sliding glass panel door, you can help keep the door operating smoothly for as long as possible.
Step 04. Replace the Slider’s Threshold Track (If Needed):
If the threshold track has deteriorated, you may need to replace the threshold track. This part of the door helps to channel water away from the tracks, so if it is compromised, it can cause water to build up.
Replacing the threshold track is a relatively easy repair that can help to keep your sliding glass door in good working condition. You can do this by following these steps:
- Remove the damaged track by unscrewing it from the door frame.
- Measure the length of the old track and cut a new one to size.
- Install the new track in the door frame, ensuring it is level and aligned correctly.
- Screw it into place using screws the same size as the removed ones.
- Test your door to ensure that it operates smoothly.
It is important to complete the replacement process and will help to keep your door operating correctly for a very long time.
Step 05. Create Barrage With Weather Stripping Tape:
Over time, the weather stripping on your sliding glass door can become worn or damaged, letting water seep through and fill the track. This can not only be a nuisance but can also lead to severe problems with your door.
To prevent this, you can create a barrage by sealing the track with weather stripping tape. This will help to keep the track dry and free of obstructions, making it easier for the door to slide open and close.
For a barrage, clean the track and apply a layer of weather stripping tape over it. Be sure to smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles, so the tape adheres properly. Your sliding glass door will not cause water infiltration once the tape is in place.
If you follow these steps, you will be able to maintain the good working condition of your sliding glass door for a longer time.
Install a Water Drainage System for the Sliding Glass Door Track
If water is a recurring problem, you may consider installing a sliding glass door track drainage system. The door will slide easier if the track is dry and debris-free.
A water drainage system for a sliding glass door track keeps your home entrance dry and free of mildew. The system works by redirecting water that would otherwise collect in the track and cause problems. To install water drainage, you should follow these steps:
01. Install a drain pan under the door: The drain pan will catch any water that flows into the crack and redirect the water away from your home. To install a drain pan, you will need to measure the door track and cut a piece of plywood to fit.
The plywood should be slightly larger than the pan to catch any leaking water. Water can also run off more efficiently if the pan is slightly elevated.
02. Install a gutter system along the length of the door: The gutter system will help collect any water that runs down the door’s length and send it elsewhere. The gutters should be positioned to catch any water running down the glass.
03. Connect a hose to the gutter system and route it: Once the gutters are installed, you should connect the hose to the gutter system and route it away properly from your property. The hose should be long enough to reach a nearby drain or outlet where you can redirect water.
This drainage system will ensure that any collected water is quickly removed from the area, keeping your entrance dry and preventing any destruction.
Preventing Water From Filling the Sliding Door Track in the Future
Many homeowners have this problem, and it can be incredibly frustrating. The water makes it difficult to open and close the door, but it can also lead to rust and other issues. The good news is that there are a few simple things you can do to prevent water from filling the track in the future, such as:
1. Check the track for any obstructions blocking the door from closing correctly. A vacuum attachment removes dirt, leaves, or other small objects.
2. If the track is significantly grimy, you may need to remove the door and clean it with a degreaser. Rinse the track thoroughly afterward and dry it completely before reinstalling the door.
3. Inspect the weatherstripping around the door to ensure it’s in good condition and not letting any water through. If necessary, replace the weatherstripping.
4. When rains are expected, put a trough or divert water away from the area near the sliding door track. This will help keep water from pooling near the door and getting into the track.
5. If you have gutters in your home, inspect them and downspouts to ensure that they are not clogged and that water is being directed in a safe direction. Regularly clean leaves and debris from your gutters and downspouts to prevent them from becoming clogged.
6. Consider installing a French drain around your home to redirect water away from the foundation.
By following these simple tips, you can help prevent sliding door tracks from filling with water.
FAQs
Have a look at some frequently asked questions about sliding glass door track maintenance:
Q: Where are the drain holes on a sliding glass door?
Most sliding doors have at least one weep or drain hole beneath the stationary panel. These holes allow water to drain out of the door, helping to prevent corrosion and moisture buildup. Without these drainage holes, your door could start to stick or become difficult to manipulate over time.
Q: How can I clean my sliding glass door track?
You can clean your sliding glass door track with a soft brush. You must remove rotten leaves stuck in the track and vacuum it out. You can then use mild soap and water to clean the track. Rinse it well and dry it with a soft cloth.
Q: Are weep holes important on the sliding glass door track?
Weep holes on a sliding glass door track can be crucial in allowing water to drain away from the door area and preventing moisture buildup, which can lead to potential problems such as rust or corrosion.
Q: Should sliding glass door track weep holes be covered?
It depends. If you live in a dry climate, the weep holes may not be necessary; thus, you can cover them. In contrast, the weep holes should not be covered in areas with a more humid or rainy climate area as they help drain out the water and prevent moisture buildup.
Q: Is the water in the sliding door track normal?
If you’ve noticed water in your sliding door’s track, you may wonder if this is normal. The short answer is yes, it is normal. Water can collect in the track of your sliding door for several reasons. But if the water stays for a long time, it can cause rust or corrosion.
Conclusion
Accumulated water can cause the sliding track to become slippery and difficult to use. Also, the water can promote the growth of mold and mildew, which can further deteriorate the door and create health hazards.
Due to this, it is crucial to address any water leaks as soon as possible to prevent irreparable losses and ensure the safe and efficient operation of the door. Taking simple preventative steps to stop water from filling the track on your sliding glass door is possible.
You can keep your entrance dry and in good condition by following some of the tips we have provided. We hope this article helped you understand what causes your sliding glass door track might fill with water and how you can address the problem.
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