Sliding glass doors are popular in modern homes, providing aesthetic appeal and practicality. They allow for an unobstructed view of the outdoors and easy access to patios or decks.
However, homeowners may encounter a frustrating problem when their sliding glass door track starts to fill with water. This can not only create an unsightly and unpleasant mess, but it can also damage the door and surrounding areas.
If you’re one of the homeowners facing this issue, you may wonder, “Why does my sliding glass door track fill with water?”
In this article, we’ll explore the possible causes and solutions to this common problem, so you can enjoy your sliding glass door without hassle.
During a storm, especially if the wind is strong, water is likely to get into the track of sliding glass doors and windows.
Through the “weep holes” located in the bottom of each door and window frame, these products capture water on the tracks and discharge it to the exterior of the building.
The track will not build up dirt and debris if these “weep holes” are kept clean of debris and dirt. After installing sliding glass doors, the homeowner may experience water sitting in the base track.
However, there is a logical explanation for this:
- It is possible to have small amounts of water remaining in the tracks, and this will evaporate over time. Water in bigger pools will, of course, drain naturally through the drainage channels outside the system if they are left clear.
- In some cases, the drainage holes may be blocked by debris, which can lead to sitting water in the base track. Also, hurricane zones might have more debris in the way of tracks, which will need to be checked regularly.
- In heavy rainfall, if water enters the tracks more than it drains through drainage holes on the base track, the water can be visible on the inner base tracks. Rainfall is more likely to occur in areas with higher rainfall and in countries with extreme weather patterns.
Because most sliding doors are not level, rainwater can run into the track and pool. Many doors have S-shaped tracks that act like funnels and can cause water to accumulate more quickly.
Water may leak through gaps caused by worn or damaged weatherstripping around the door, causing the problem to worsen. It is possible to have blocked drain holes or weep holes in the track, resulting in pooling water.
In any case, you should clean out the track regularly to prevent water buildup. However, if the problem persists, you may need to take immediate action.
How Do You Keep Water Out Of A Sliding Door Track?
It is recommended to clean and maintain the tracks weekly to prevent blockages in the drainage holes (and reduce the risk of water infiltration).
By doing so, we ensure the optimum performance of the sliding doors and that debris does not build up and slow the drainage designed into the system.
The cleaning of your sliding glass patio door’s tracks is fairly straightforward. This is how you do it:
Step 1: Identify the Reason
If your sliding glass door track is waterlogged, you should first identify the source of the problem. There is a strong possibility of a leak in the door seal.
Degrading sealant around doors allows water to seep in over time. A water-logged sliding glass door track is another typical result of an inadequate drainage system.
It is more likely that water will pool in the track than drain away if the track is not sloped correctly. When the drainage holes in the track are blocked, water also accumulates.
Step 2: Clean the Roller Threshold Track
It’s time to take action once the cause is determined. Make a start on cleaning the roller threshold track. It is the metal track that rollers ride on at the bottom of the door. Make sure debris is removed by using a vacuum.
Clean any buildup with a soft brush as well. Cleaning filthy tracks can be done with a mild soap and water solution. Ensure that soap residue is rinsed off with warm, clean water.
In addition to corroding the rollers, water can also ruin them, so it is necessary to clean them frequently.
It is essential to check the seals around the door to ensure they are intact. Removing water from the track is possible by replacing worn or damaged seals.
Step 3: Clean the Weep Holes on the Track
Over time, the water drain holes on the track can become clogged with debris, preventing water from draining away. A door can jam or not close properly in a track that overflows with water.
Remove any blockages from the holes with a toothpick or other sharp object. If they are significantly blocked, the holes may need a wire brush to be cleaned. It is essential to work slowly and gently to avoid damaging the track.
After making sure all holes are clear, rinse the track with clean water to remove any remaining particles. After filling the holes, run the door through a test to ensure it operates smoothly.
Maintaining the drainage holes of a sliding glass panel door will help to ensure that it operates smoothly for as long as possible.
Step 4: Replace the Slider’s Threshold Track (If Needed)
Depending on how badly the threshold track has deteriorated, you may need to replace it. Whenever this part of the door is compromised, water can build up on the tracks and cause damage.
Replacing the threshold track is a relatively easy repair that keeps your sliding glass door functioning effectively. Following are the steps to follow:
- Using an unscrewdriver, remove the damaged track.
- Using a ruler, measure the length of the old track and cut a new one to the same length.
- Ensure the new track is level and aligned with the door frame.
- Make sure that the screws used for the removal are the same size as the ones you are installing.
- Ensure that your door operates smoothly before you use it.
Performing the replacement process will prevent your door from experiencing problems in the future.
Step 5: Create Barrage With Weather Stripping Tape
As weather stripping wears out or is damaged, water can penetrate the track and flood the sliding glass door. The problem, however, can cause severe damage to your door as well as being a nuisance.
Sealing the track with weatherstripping tape will create a barrage, therefore preventing this from happening. As a result, the track will remain dry and free from obstructions, making it easier for the door to move back and forth.
Barrage tracks should be cleaned and weather stripping tape applied over them. The tape will adhere better if any bubbles or wrinkles are smoothed out.
Using the tape, you will not experience water infiltration through your sliding glass door. Following these steps will allow you to maintain the excellent working condition of your sliding glass door for a more extended period of time.
Preventing Water From Filling the Sliding Door Track in the Future
Intense frustration can be experienced by many homeowners who have this problem. When the water accumulates in the door, it makes it difficult to open and close and can also cause rust and other problems.
It’s good news that you can prevent water from filling the track in the future by doing a few simple things, like:
- If the door is not closing properly because of an obstruction on the track, check it. You can use a vacuum attachment to remove dirt, leaves, and other small items.
- Removing the door to clean the track with a degreaser may be necessary if the track is considerably grimy. When reinstalling the door, thoroughly rinse and dry the track.
- You should inspect the weather stripping around the door to ensure it is in good condition and not leaking. It may be necessary to replace the weather strip if required.
- Installing a trough or diverting the water away from the sliding door track can be done when rain is expected. Keeping water out of the track by doing this will prevent it from pooling near the door.
- Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear, and that water is flowing safely away from your home. Prevent your gutters from becoming clogged by regularly clearing leaves and debris from them.
- Install a French drain around your home to protect your foundation.
What Is Water Ingress, And Why Does It Occur?
As the name suggests, water ingress refers to the infiltration of water into a building. Different things can cause this, including many various reasons.
No matter how carefully it is installed, glazing can allow water to enter. Particularly in countries with heavy rainfall, drainage, ledges, sills, and surrounding buildings need careful consideration.
What Does Water Ingress Look Like With Sliding Doors?
Blockages in the drainage system may prevent water from flowing freely, which could result in water rising and entering the property.
The system works correctly only if water does not back up and rise within the track compartments. If the system is not flowing correctly, please remove any obstructions, including those externally, against our framework.
Final Words
In the case of accumulating water, the sliding track can become slippery and difficult to use. A leaky door can also promote mold and mildew growth, which worsens the condition of the door and poses a health hazard.
Therefore, leaks must be repaired as soon as possible to prevent irreparable losses and ensure the door operates safely and efficiently. Simple preventative measures can prevent water from accumulating in your sliding glass door track.
Follow some of the tips we have provided in order to keep your entrance dry and in good condition. Hopefully, this article helped you understand why sliding glass door tracks fill with water and how to remedy it.
