By Kerry Hale

How To Replace Shower Runners

  • Thursday 24 October 2024
  • 4 minute read

Sliding showers are a stylish addition to modern bathrooms, but over time, the runners can become worn or damaged. Luckily, replacing the runners is relatively easy, and you can do it yourself in a few simple steps. However, for the best results, we recommend hiring a professional to do this task.

This guide explores how to replace shower door runners, including the equipment you’ll need and answers to frequently asked questions about the process.

What you need to replace shower runners

Gather the following parts and equipment to replace your shower door runners:

  • Screwdriver
  • New shower runners
  • Spray lubricant
  • Towel (to protect your bathroom floor)

Step-by-step guide to replacing shower runners

Below, we take you through five steps to replacing your shower door runners. Before going ahead, make sure you have new runners that match the size and shape of the shower’s rollers.

1. Prepare the space

Prepare your bathroom to avoid accidents while you work. Remove any items or freestanding furniture that may block your way, and put down a towel to protect your floor. Make sure you have all the equipment you need on hand.

2. Remove the shower door

The next step is to remove the shower door. These can be stiff and heavy, so take extra care. Unclip the door from the bottom runners, then lift it up and pull it out to dislodge it from the frame. Gently place the shower door on the bathroom floor in a secure position to prevent it from toppling over.

3. Remove the old shower runners

It’s time to remove the old runners. Remove the screw cap from the runner so the screw is fully visible. Then, loosen it with a screwdriver until the runner comes away from the shower door.

4. Install new shower runners

Attach your new shower runners to the shower door using a screwdriver, ensuring the wheel is on the outside. Check the runners are secured to the shower door, but avoid over-screwing, as this can damage the door.

5. Restore your shower door

Now that the new runners are in place, the last step is to restore your shower enclosure door. Lift the door and place it back on its tracks. Then, make sure it’s securely in place by pulling the door along the frame. If there’s resistance, you may need to use some spray lubricant to help the door slide smoothly.

Have you run into a problem with your Mira shower? Book a shower repair online and receive help and advice from our expert engineers.

How do you remove a rolling glass shower door?

To remove a rolling glass shower door, unclip the bottom shower runners and gently pull the door away from the tracks. Then, lift the door out of the top tracks and place it carefully on the bathroom floor.

Why do shower door rollers go off track?

Shower door rollers sometimes go off track because they’re positioned out of line, making the door difficult to open and close. This can happen if the screws holding the rollers in place become loose or come off.

Wondering how to adjust shower door rollers? Remove the shower door from its tracks and use a screwdriver to tighten the screws on the roller wheels.

How do you clean shower rollers?

White vinegar is an effective way to clean shower rollers. Prepare a solution of one part hot water and one part white vinegar and apply a small amount to the rollers. Leave the solution to sit for around five minutes, then use a soft cloth or cotton pad to wipe it away. Rinse the rollers with warm water and let them dry thoroughly.

How do you measure shower door rollers?

Unsure how to measure shower door rollers? The easiest way is using callipers. Set them to mm, then measure the following:

  • Wheel thickness
  • Wheel diameter
  • Glass thickness
  • The diameter of the hole in the glass
  • The distance between the centre of the fixing hole and the edge of the glass

Knowing the exact measurements will help you find suitable replacement rollers for your shower.

How to make a shower door slide smoothly

If your shower door isn’t sliding as smoothly as you’d like, there are a few things you should do. First, inspect the shower rollers to check if they need adjusting. If your shower tracks are dirty, clean and dry them with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth, and check that they’re clear of obstructions like hair and debris. You can also apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks and rollers to encourage them to slide more easily.

Replacing your shower runners is easy with our handy tips and advice. Thinking about upgrading your bathroom? Explore our guide to buying a shower enclosure and our range of showers to choose the right design for your space.

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