Top 3 Things Florida Homeowners Do That Ruin Sliding Doors Faster

Sliding glass doors are built to last, but common mistakes can wear them out far sooner than expected. At Gators Sliding Doors, we often see preventable damage caused by everyday habits. Here are the top 3 things homeowners unknowingly do that shorten the life of their sliding doors.

1. Using the Wrong Lubricants

A quick spray of WD-40 might seem like a good fix, but oil-based lubricants actually attract dirt and dust, turning your sliding track into a sticky mess. This grime buildup can cause rollers to grind, tracks to corrode, and your door to jam.

Pro Tip: Always use a high-quality silicone-based spray specifically made for sliding door tracks.

2. Slamming or Forcing the Door

If your door is hard to slide, forcing it open or shut can stress the frame, damage the rollers, and misalign the track. Many homeowners make the mistake of pulling hard instead of addressing the root issue.

Pro Tip: If your door isn’t gliding smoothly, it’s time for a track cleaning or roller repair—not brute force.

3. Ignoring Routine Cleaning

Dust, pet hair, sand, and leaves can all collect in your door track. When ignored, this debris acts like sandpaper on your rollers, wearing them down quickly and leading to jerky movement or a stuck door.

Pro Tip: Clean your track every few weeks with a vacuum and damp cloth. A little effort goes a long way in extending your door’s lifespan.

Protect Your Investment with Gators Sliding Doors

At Gators, we help Florida homeowners keep their sliding doors working like new with expert maintenance, track repairs, and high-quality roller replacements.

If your door is sticking, squeaking, or giving you trouble, give us a call for a free inspection today!