Lubricating pocket door rollers is a wise maintenance activity. A little oil installed once or twice a year will keep the door operating correctly.

Not sure if this is your problem? See the article 'Troubleshooting Pocket Door Problems' for a complete listing of subjects on pocket doors. Having trouble with the pocket door opening and closting, see 'Replacing a Poc ket Door Off the Track' and 'Removing a Pocket Door' for instructions on what to do.

Most doors will have two sets of rollers that glide in the track. The rollers will typically have three or four wheels.With that many wheels it is easy to see how problems could arise.The rollers are not technically part of the pocket door track. They are, however, matched to the track. To keep them working smoothly, you need to lubricate them periodically.

Using the Right Lubricant

You want to use a lubricant that has silicone in it. The wheels are made of nylon and you do not want anything that is too strong or will damage the wheels.

Another concern is making a mess. Do not use grease or any lubricant that does not dry clear. Although the intent is to just put the oil on the rollers and track, it is possible that you will get some on other surfaces. Make sure it is an spray type that can be easily cleaned off of other surfaces.

 Formulated with Teflon™ Fluoropolymer to enhance performance. Its clear, non-evaporating formula eliminates wear from constant friction and is safe and non-staining.

Blaster makes some products that are suitable. However, they are not the only ones that can be used. Try to locate a spray lubricant with similar properties.

'Blaster Garage Door Lubricant' is a silicone-based lubricant that leaves a tack-free film that won't accumulate dust and dirt. It effectively helps stop squeaks associated with garage doors and mechanisms. 'Blaster Silicone Lubricant' contains a higher concentration of silicone than competitor brands, which provides longer-lasting lubrication. Both product boast that they won't accumulate dust & dirt and that they quiet noisy operation of moving parts.

Purchasing Lubricant

Most home supply and hardware stores will have lubricants that will work for a pocket door. See the section above on choosing the right type. You can also find them online if you want to purchase a specific one.

A can of spray silicone lubricant should run around $5 to $10 and will last for quite a while. This type of lubricant is good for several household chores.

Cleaning the Rollers and Track

Before you apply any oil, you are going to want to make sure that the rollers are free of dust and dirt. You will also want to make sure that the track is free of dirt and build up.

To clean up the rollers, you will need to remove them. See the article on 'Removing and Replacing Pocket Door Rollers' for instructions on what to do.

Oiling the Rollers

Before you start make sure that you have a can of silicone spray and a rag. The rag will help to keep from getting the oil or spray on other surface. It will also be handy to wipe up any over spray or drips that may occur.

Carefully spray the rollers and the track. Do not use too much, but try and get an even coating. Move the door back and forth to work the lubricant into the nooks and crannies. 

If the door still does not operate smoothly, add some more spray until the operation is smooth. If the rollers will not free up, they may need to be replaced, see the article 'Replacing Pocket Door Rollers' for more information.

Summary

Periodically oiling or lubricating the hardware on a pocket door is a good practice. The main moving part for the door is the two hanger/roller assemblies that roll along a track at the top of the door.