DIY: Replace Sliding Door Wheels

If your glass sliding door doesn't roll properly, but you can't locate a problem with the track, consider replacing the wheels at the bottom of the door. Over time, the wheels can collect dirt and other debris, or become dinged or loose. Luckily sliding door wheels are easily replaced and are often sold in complete wheel assemblies.

Step 1: Lift the sliding door off of the bottom row of tracks, then tilt the door slightly inward. Then remove the sliding door from the door frame.

TIP: An outside sliding door may have screws at the bottom of the outside track to prevent you from removing the door in this manner. Simply loosen the screws from inside of your house, then use the same method to remove the glass sliding door.

Step 2: Place the glass door on a surface that will not scratch the door so you can have uninhibited access to the bottom of the sliding door.

TIP: Try using a large table covered with a towel to prevent scratching the glass. You can also use a pair of sawhorses, just place a towel over each one to stop scratches.

Step 3: Remove the screws at the bottom of the sliding glass door that holds the wheel assembly for the door in place.

TIP: If you think that your sliding door wheels may just be dirty, try cleaning them with a solution of dish soap and warm water. Let them dry and then spray them with a penetrating oil to make sure they turn properly. You can then replace the door to see if that fixed the problem.

Step 4: Remove the wheel assembly box. Some can be tapped out using a light hit of a hammer, while others you may have to pry out using a flat head screwdriver.

Step 5: Look on the wheel assembly for a manufacturer and model number so you can purchase the proper replacement. That information may also be found elsewhere on the door.

Step 6: Clean the cavity left by the old wheel assembly with a clean, dry cloth.

Step 7: Place the new wheel assembly into the cavity and add screws to secure it to the bottom of the door.

Step 8: Lift up the sliding glass door and put it into place on the track of the door frame.