Hey everyone! I need help with my bedroom closet sliding door. This morning, three screws came off the track (which is attached to the ceiling), and by late afternoon, all screws had fallen out. Fortunately, I managed to remove the sliding glass panes just in time! I found this track that might have some with pilot holes pre-drilled: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Contractors-Wardrobe-96-in-Track-and-Channel-White-Steel-Track-and-Channel/324604439. What's the easiest way to secure everything back together before it all falls apart? Should I drill new pilot holes for new screws, or can I use the old holes with ceiling anchors? I've tried drilling new pilot holes, but it hasn't been successful so far.
2 Answers
It sounds like the screws might not have been long enough or anchored into something solid. I’d recommend re-drilling and ensuring your new screws hit something like a rafter for better support. Just make sure you know what you're drilling into!
I think they should be at least 2 inches long since the drywall is only about half an inch thick.
It really depends on how the header is constructed in your wall. If it's a wider opening, sometimes they used two 2x4s with a spacer, so make sure your screws are long enough to hit that solid wood. You can drill new pilot holes without much worry since they’ll be hidden if things don’t go as planned. Using a punch or nail to start the hole helps a lot!
I’m having a tough time drilling through the metal rail. Should I be using longer screws instead of anchors?
So re-drill with new screws? How long should I get?