Sliding doors are a modern convenience that we take for granted. They are found in many homes, offices, and public buildings. These doors are popular because they save space and are easy to use. However, sometimes these sliding doors can derail from their tracks, causing inconvenience and potential safety hazards. When this happens, you do not need to fret because we will explain how to put sliding closet door back on track. 

You can put your closet sliding door back on track by removing it, determining what caused the derailment, and solving the problem before putting it back on its tracks. Dirt is the usual culprit that derails sliding doors off-track. 

A closet sliding door that does not move smoothly on its tracks can be very frustrating. It makes opening and closing the door very difficult and makes one cringe. You do not have to worry because, in this article, we will discuss why sliding doors can derail, how to prevent them from happening, and how to fix them when they do.

Why Do Sliding Closet Door Go Off Track 

Like all sliding doors, your closet sliding door is not impervious to damage and weathering effects. Sliding doors can derail for various reasons, but most are preventable. Here are some of the reasons why your sliding closet door goes off track: 

• Accumulation Of Dirt

One common reason for derailment is the buildup of dirt and debris in the tracks. This dirt accumulation can prevent the door from sliding smoothly, causing it to jump off the track. Sliding door tracks lie on the floor, making it easy for sand particles to find their way between the tracks. 

The dirt will cause a lack of lubrication between the door and the tracks, causing it to become stiff. The stiffness will eventually cause the door to slide away as you try to force it to move. 

• Worn Out Tracks 

Another reason for derailment is a damaged or worn-out track. Over time, the path can become warped or dented, causing the door to move unevenly and eventually derail. Sliding door tracks do not last forever. Constant use can cause damage to it. The metal can also start eroding. 

Sometimes, the tracks can become warped as you try to force the door to close or open. The tracks need to be smooth, well-lubricated, and devoid of any obstructions in their way. Making your sliding door tracks free and easy to move would be best. 

• Poor Installation 

Poor installation can also cause the sliding door to derail. If the track is not properly aligned or if the door is not installed correctly, it can cause the door to become unbalanced and derail.

An adequately installed track has good balance and moves very straight. Poor installation includes a distorted track line, inferior material, loose screws, and debris on the door tracks. You must use a professional for installation. 

How Do I Stop My Sliding Closet Door From Going Off Track

Preventing sliding closet doors from going off track is relatively easy if you take the time to maintain them properly. All you need to do is perform routine maintenance. Follow these tips to prevent your sliding closet door from going off track: 

1. Always keep the tracks clean. You can use a vacuum cleaner or a brush to remove the dirt and debris accumulating on the track. Pet hairs are the usual culprits for dirt accumulation on tracks. Your door tracks must be in good condition. 
2. Conduct a routine inspection of the tracks to spot any minor faults. Even a little wrapping of the trail can cause a derailment. Repairing the defect immediately is better than allowing it to develop into more severe problems. 
3. Ensure that your sliding door is installed correctly. Poor installation will cause difficulties in the future, and eventually, the door will start to slide off track. 
4. It is best to use a professional handyperson for the installation. Or else you can install it yourself perfectly. 

How To Put Sliding Closet Door Back On Track

If your sliding door has already derailed, don’t panic. It is a relatively easy fix that you can do yourself. You only need a straightforward tool and very little time. Follow these steps to put your sliding closet door back on track: 

• Step 1

Remove the door from the track. You can do this by lifting the door off the track and angling it toward you. You must be careful not to allow the door to scratch the track surface. If you cannot lift it alone, you can get someone to help you. 

• Step 2

Inspect the tracks for damages and clean out dirt from the tracks. Use a vacuum or a soft brush to eliminate every speck of sand or dust. 

• Step 3

Straighten out any distorted parts of the track. If warps are on the trail, you can use a plier and hammer to fix them or hit them back into shape. The door track must be straight and clean. You can use some lubricants on the track to facilitate easy movement. 

• Step 4

You can replace the door once the track is straight and clean, devoid of contortions and dirt. Put the door back gently by angling it back into the track until it slides in place. Test the door back and forth to ensure smooth back-and-forth movement. 

If you need help putting your sliding closet door back on track, it is always best to consult a professional. They will be able to assess the damage and provide you with the best course of action. A professional can also help you prevent future derailments by ensuring that the track is in good condition and the door is installed correctly.

Conclusion 

Sliding doors are a modern convenience that we take for granted. However, they can derail from their tracks, causing inconvenience and potential safety hazards. The most common reasons for derailment are a buildup of dirt and debris, a damaged or worn-out track, and poor installation. 

You can prevent derailment by keeping the tracks clean, ensuring that the track is in good condition, and installing the door correctly. If your sliding door does derail, it is a relatively easy fix that you can do yourself. However, consult a professional to put the sliding closet door back on track if you need more clarification.