Why Is it Important to Know How to Remove a Sliding Glass Door?
Removing a sliding glass door may seem like a daunting task, but once you’ve learned the basic process, it might be easier than you initially thought! There are many reasons you may need to remove a sliding glass door, including repairing or replacing panes, restoring the proper slide, or moving large objects like furniture.
Learn how to remove a sliding glass door with these instructions from the expert technicians at Glass Doctor.
How to Remove a Sliding Glass Door
Before we get into the step-by-step process of removing a sliding glass door, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. Sliding glass doors are a lot heavier than they look and moving it yourself could be dangerous. Have a friend on hand to help you brace and move the door!
You’ll also need:
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
- Foam sheets, layers of heavy blankets or comforters
Once you’ve gathered these supplies, follow the steps below to remove your sliding glass door:
- Clear the Work Area
Move any furniture away from your sliding glass door. You’ll want at least ten feet of clear space around your work area. - Prep the Floor
Foam sheets or thick blankets will protect your floor from any chipping or cracks due to the weight of the sliding glass door. It will also protect the door itself as you set it down. - Remove the Screen Door
Using a flat-head screwdriver, carefully lift the rollers of the screen door off the bottom track. Once removed, move the screen door to a safe place away from your work area. - Remove the Stationary Door
The stationary glass door is the part of the glass door system that doesn’t move and is usually located behind the sliding portion. You’ll have to remove the stationary portion if you’re not able to remove the sliding portion from inside the house. Sometimes raised flooring presents this issue. Use a flat-head screwdriver to remove the threshold and unscrew the top, middle and bottom brackets. Carefully lift the door up until it’s free from the tracks and then have your partner help you tilt it slightly to remove the door from the upper track. Lay the stationary door down gently on a foam sheet. - Remove the Sliding Glass Door
At the bottom of the track, you’ll see a slight indent that is intended for easy removal. Slide the door till it hits this point. Next, you’ll need to remove the adjustment screws by accessing them on the side panels at the bottom of the door. Sometimes these screws are covered in plugs that are usually easy to remove. Use the Phillips screwdriver to loosen the adjustment screws so you can pull up the rollers. You should now be able to freely lift the sliding glass door out of the frame and out of the track. You may need the Philips screwdriver again to free the door from the track. Once removed, have your partner help you tilt it and move it out of the doorway. Then, gently lay it flat on a foam sheet.
Don’t Forcefully Remove Sliding Glass Doors
If you’re having trouble with any of the steps outlined above, its time give the professionals a call. This is particularly important if any part of the door is stuck. Forcing a stubborn door could lead to cracks or damage to the track or door frame. A partially removed door or unfinished project leaves your home with an unsecured opening.
Call Glass Doctor to Remove Sliding Glass Doors, Hassle-Free
From replacement to repair and everything in between – your local Glass Doctor® is here to help you with any sliding glass door project. Skip the hassle of DIY removal and contact Glass Doctor to remove your sliding glass door. We fix your panes!® Schedule an appointment online or call to get started today.