Frequently Asked Questions | Glideworks

Got questions about finding the right part for your sliding door, window, or screen door? With over 35 years in the door and window hardware industry, we've heard (and answered) just about everything. Here are the questions our customers ask most often.

How do I figure out which brand made my sliding door or window?

A handful of manufacturers, including Dowell, Boral, Stegbar, Bradnam's, Comalco, Jason, and Trimview, account for roughly 95% of sliding doors fitted across Australia. Check the frame edges, the lock faceplate, and the glass spacer bar for brand stamps or stickers. On older frames these markings often wear away, so if you can't find anything, snap a few clear photos of the door frame, track, and existing hardware, then email them to us. We'll identify the brand and recommend the correct parts, usually within 24 hours.

What does Glideworks' part identification service involve?

Simply email us photos of the part you need to replace, along with any details you have about the door or window (brand, approximate age, or property build year). Our team draws on 35+ years of hands-on experience to match your hardware. We aim to respond within 24 hours with a confirmed part recommendation you can order straight away.

Which brands and product types do you stock parts for?

We carry parts compatible with a wide range of leading Australian brands, including Stegbar, Dowell, Jason, Boral, Bradnam's, Comalco, Lockwood, Trimview, and more. Our range covers sliding doors, windows, screen doors, shower screens, and associated hardware, so you can source most of what you need under one roof.

Are sliding door rollers universal, or do I need a specific type?

Sliding door rollers are definitely not universal. Four key dimensions determine the correct fit: wheel diameter, carriage size, single versus tandem wheel configuration, and wheel material (nylon, steel, or sealed ball-bearing). Even within the same brand, parts can differ between product generations. For example, Stegbar rollers from the 1990s may be quite different from those in more recent installations. Getting the right match matters, and that's exactly what our identification service is designed to help with.

How do I know when my sliding door rollers need replacing?

Common signs include needing both hands to push the door open, grinding or scraping noises from the bottom rail, and the door visibly dropping so the latch no longer lines up with the strike plate. Worn or seized rollers are the most frequent cause of a stiff sliding door. Replacing them early is much easier than waiting for complete failure, and it's far more affordable than replacing the entire door, which can cost AUD $1,300 to $2,000 or more.

Can older doors really be repaired, or is replacement the only option?

In most cases, even doors that are 20 to 30 years old can be restored by fitting new rollers, locks, or handles. Standard sliding door repairs in Australia typically run between AUD $150 and $350, compared with AUD $1,300 to $2,000+ for a full door replacement. Boral doors from the late 1980s and Comalco doors common in Perth's older suburbs are great examples of frames that respond well to a straightforward roller swap.

Do you ship Australia-wide?

Yes, we supply customers right across Australia. Orders are dispatched from our Perth, WA base. If you're local to Perth, you can also choose Click & Collect to pick up your order in person and avoid shipping wait times.

What if I order the wrong part?

We understand that matching hardware can be tricky, especially on older or unbranded frames. If you're unsure before ordering, we strongly recommend using our free photo identification service so we can confirm the right part upfront. If you do receive an incorrect item, get in touch with our team and we'll work with you to sort it out as quickly as possible.

Should I replace my window hardware before it completely fails?

Absolutely. Window rollers and mechanisms are often ignored until the window becomes very difficult to open or the lock stops catching. By that stage the rollers are usually severely worn, which can damage the track and make the repair more involved. Replacing worn components early keeps the job simple and prevents further damage to the frame or sash.

How can I get in touch if my question isn't answered here?

You can email us with your question or send through photos for part identification, and our team will typically get back to you within 24 hours. Perth-based customers are also welcome to visit us in person. We're always happy to help you track down the right part, no matter how old or obscure the hardware might be.