Turning the handle on a lift-and-slide lifts the panel off its gaskets onto the rollers so it moves freely. Turning it back drops the panel onto the seals, where its weight compresses them. That's why these doors seal so tightly, and why a few habits keep them that way.
Keep the sill draining
The sill has channels and weep holes that carry rainwater outside. If they fill with leaves, sand or insects, water backs up. Vacuum the channels and clear the weep holes every spring and fall.
Clean the running rail, don't grease it
Wipe the rail the rollers run on with a damp cloth. Unless your manufacturer says otherwise, don't grease it. It attracts dirt that ends up in the rollers.
Service the gear once a year
The handle drives a gear and a multi-point lock inside the panel. A drop of the lubricant your manufacturer recommends at the lock points once a year keeps the handle smooth.
Check the gaskets
Look for tears, gaps or sections gone flat and hard. Damaged gaskets cause drafts and whistling, and they can be replaced without replacing the door.
Habits that protect the door
- Lift fully before sliding. Moving the panel half-lifted drags the gaskets.
- Don't slam the panel into the end stops.
- You can drop the panel anywhere along the track to leave it partly open, and it locks in place.
Call us if
- The handle gets stiff or won't turn all the way.
- The panel drags even when lifted.
- Water comes in at the sill after heavy rain.