Can the wheels on a sliding glass door be replaced?

Quick Answer

The wheels on a sliding glass door can generally be replaced. The process involves removing the door from the track, detaching the old wheels, and installing new ones. Basic mechanical skills and some specialized tools like a pry bar and screwdriver are needed. With care and patience, homeowners can replace sliding glass door wheels on their own in 1-2 hours per wheel. Professional installation may cost $200 or more.

What Are Sliding Glass Door Wheels?

Sliding glass doors roll back and forth on a metal track using wheels attached to the bottom of the door. These wheels support the weight of the door and allow smooth sliding motion.

There are two main types of sliding glass door wheels:

Steel Ball Bearing Wheels

These consist of an inner metal ball bearing inside a steel or nylon housing. The ball bearing rolls between the housing and track for easy gliding. This is the most common type of sliding door wheel.

Plastic or Nylon Wheels

Made entirely of plastic or nylon material. These have more friction than ball bearing wheels but are cheaper.

On most doors there are 2-4 wheels per side. If any become damaged or worn out, the door will not slide properly and need repair.

When Do Sliding Glass Door Wheels Need Replacement?

Here are some signs that the wheels on a sliding glass door need replacing:

– Grinding, squeaking or rattling noises when opening or closing – This indicates worn out bearings

– visible cracks or damage on the wheel surface

– The door drags, sticks or jams while sliding

– The door slides unevenly or crooked in the track

– The door vibrates or shakes when in motion

– The wheels look deformed or flattened

– The door requires a lot of force to slide open or closed

If any of these issues occur, inspect all the wheel assemblies carefully. Bad wheels must be replaced to restore proper function.

Can You Replace Sliding Glass Door Wheels Yourself?

With some mechanical aptitude and the right tools, homeowners can replace sliding glass door wheels on their own:

Difficulty

– Moderate difficulty. Removing the heavy glass door to access the wheels requires strength and care. Replacing the wheels involves removing small mounting hardware.

Time Required

– 1-2 hours per wheel. Working slowly and carefully is recommended.

Tools Needed

– Pry bar
– Screwdrivers
– Wrench or pliers
– Gloves for gripping glass
– Replacement wheels

Cost to DIY

– $20-$50 for a set of replacement wheels

So with proper precautions, replacing sliding door wheels is a DIY project homeowners can tackle. But due to the weight of the door and working at height, getting professional help is a safer option.

How Much Does Professional Replacement Cost?

Hiring a handyman or window and door pro to replace sliding glass door wheels costs approximately:

– $100-$300 per wheel
– Typical range of $200-$600 to replace all wheels
– Higher for emergency or weekend calls

Factors affecting the price include:

– Number of wheels needing replacement
– Hourly rate of the technician
– Material costs for new wheels
– Age and condition of the current door

Replacing just the problematic wheels may be most affordable. But worn wheels indicate age, so replacing all at once prevents future issues.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Wheels

Here is an overview of the full process for replacing sliding glass door wheels yourself:

Materials Needed

– Replacement wheels compatible with your door brand/model
– Pry bar, hammer
– Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
– Wrench or pliers
– Gloves for gripping glass
– Wheel grease/lubricant

Remove Door from Track

– Slide door fully open. Insert pry bar under bottom edge and gently lift upward.
– Once raised, insert wood block or wedge to hold door in place.
– Lift door to disengage wheels from track on other side.

Set Door Down Safely

– Lay door down on its side on a soft, stable surface like a rug or moving blanket. Use caution – tempered glass can still break.
– Have an assistant help with this step if needed.

Detach Old Wheels

– Remove any fasteners or clips securing the wheel assembly in place. This usually involves undoing screws.
– Detach the old wheel housing from the door frame.

Install New Wheels

– Insert new wheel assemblies into the slots on the door frame.
– Reinstall any mounting clips or hardware to secure in place.
– Repeat this process for each wheel being replaced.

Rehang Door in Track

– Lift door and re-insert wheels into top channel of track.
– Lower door fully back into bottom track.
– Slide back and forth to test for smooth motion.

Adjust and Lubricate

– If needed, loosen wheel mountings and adjust position for even sliding.
– Apply lubricant to wheel housing and track to prevent future sticking.

And that’s it! Be sure to test operation thoroughly and replace any remaining old wheels that feel worn.

Professional Replacement Process

For those hiring a professional, here is what to expect:

Scheduling Appointment

– Call local window/door company or handyman to arrange house visit.
– Provide make and model of current sliding door if possible. This ensures getting compatible replacement wheels.

Preparing the Work Area

– Remove any furniture, plants or decor blocking access to the door.
– Have a clear path prepared for removing the door temporarily.

Removal and Replacement Steps

The basic process is the same as DIY:

– Technician will detach door from track using pry bars.
– Door will be laid down to access wheel mounts.
– Old wheels detached and new ones installed.
– Door rehung in track and operation confirmed.

Cleanup

– All tools and debris removed from work area.
– Any lubricant or grease spills cleaned up.

Payment

– Inspect work before paying. Test door operation.
– Expect to pay $100-$300 per wheel replaced.
– Additional fees if added repairs needed.

Hiring a pro ensures fast, safe service. But costs significantly more than DIY.

Conclusion

Replacing worn out sliding glass door wheels is crucial for restoring smooth operation and preventing damage. With some mechanical skill and the proper tools, this is a DIY project homeowners can take on themselves at a fraction of the cost of professional repair. However, always use extreme care when working with heavy glass components. If unsure about safely removing and reinstalling the door, calling a handyman or window contractor is best to get this repair done right. With regular maintenance and high quality replacement wheels, sliding glass doors should go for years without needing more wheel work.

Sliding Glass Door Wheel Replacement FAQ

How can I find my sliding glass door wheel replacement size?

First look for any sizing information stamped on the existing wheel housing. If unavailable, measure the wheel diameter and thickness. Bring these measurements to the hardware store when purchasing replacements.

Where can I buy replacement wheels for my sliding glass door?

Check home improvement stores like Home Depot or Lowes. Bring your old wheel or at least the measurements. Or order exact replacement wheels online through the door manufacturer or general parts websites.

Should both wheels get replaced on sliding glass doors?

It’s recommended to replace all the wheels at the same time. If one is worn out, the others are likely approaching end of lifespan. This prevents having to do the job twice.

Can I replace sliding glass door wheels with any wheels?

Wheels must be compatible with your specific door brand and model. Using universal or improper wheels risks the door functioning incorrectly or even damaging the track or frame. Purchase OEM or brand-approved replacements.

How do I lubricate sliding glass door wheels?

Use a specialized door track lubricant available at hardware stores. Apply a thin coat along the full track surface and let it penetrate. Avoid regular greases which can attract dirt. Re-lubricate seasonally.