Lanai Doors Maintenance – Extending the Life of Your Bi-Folding System

posted on:
August 3, 2008
written by:
Jeffery Jarvis

Lanai Doors Maintenance – Extending the Life of Your Bi-Folding System

 

Long-Lasting Beauty and Performance

Lanai Doors® are engineered for strength, weather performance, and beauty—but like all finely crafted architectural systems, proper maintenance is essential to keep them operating smoothly and looking their best. With regular care, your Lanai bi-folding door system can provide decades of reliable service, outperforming traditional French doors in both durability and function.

According to the National Institute of Standards & Technology, well-maintained doors and windows can last up to 50 years. Factors such as frame material, product quality, installation practices, climate, and ongoing maintenance all contribute to longevity.


Minimum Maintenance Requirements for Hardware

Tracks & Bearings

  • Apply a small amount (approx. ¼ teaspoon) of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or similar lubricant to the track lips using a spatula or tool (never your fingers).

  • Ensure wheels pass through the lubricant to distribute it evenly.

  • Clean the track with a damp cloth and mild detergent, then wipe dry.

  • In marine or industrial environments, apply a corrosion preventative (CRC Marine 66 or Innox).

Hangers, Pivots & Brackets

  • Wipe with warm, soapy water and rinse clean.

  • Apply a light spray of corrosion preventative and wipe off excess.

Hinges

  • Clean with warm soapy water, rinse, then apply a thin film of light machine oil or corrosion preventative.

  • Avoid getting oils on wood surfaces to prevent staining.

Flush Bolts

  • Spray CRC Marine 66 or Innox into the sliding pin and lock cylinder.

  • Use a nozzle tube to access internal slots without removing hardware.

Solid Brass Hardware

  • Supplied un-lacquered. Can be left to develop a natural patina or polished with a commercial brass cleaner.


Recommended Maintenance Frequency

  • General environments: Every 6 months

  • Marine or industrial environments: Every 3 months

⚠️ Regular maintenance is required for all hardware, even stainless steel. Lack of maintenance may void the manufacturer’s warranty.


Frame & Panel Care

Aluminum and Aluminum-Clad Units

  • Inspect and repair any scratches, chips, or coating damage immediately.

  • Never leave bare metal exposed.

  • Apply at least two coats of finish to exposed wood areas (top/bottom of sash, inside lock holes, etc.).

  • Avoid using sealers or paints on vinyl or non-wood parts.

Thermally Broken Aluminum Units

  • Maintain exterior finish coatings for maximum weatherproofing and energy performance.

  • Clean frames with mild soap and water to protect the thermal break integrity.

Wood Units

  • Apply a sealer to the top and bottom of each panel every 6 months (or more often if exposed to extreme climates).

  • Refinish the exterior annually or as needed.

  • Avoid waxes; instead, use lemon oil to clean and condition the wood finish.


Glass Care

Proper glass care is essential for maintaining insulated and Low-E glass effectiveness.

  • Never use petroleum-based cleaners, caustic chemicals, or abrasives.

  • Never scrape with a razor blade, putty knife, or abrasive pad.

  • Vacuum dirt from sill and track before washing.

  • Wash with mild dish soap and water, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a soft cloth to avoid water spots.

  • Avoid high-pressure spray nozzles when rinsing.


Why Maintenance Matters

Routine care protects your investment by:

  • Preserving the weather-tight seal system.

  • Preventing corrosion and wear, especially in marine/coastal areas.

  • Maintaining smooth panel operation.

  • Extending the life and beauty of wood, aluminum, and glass finishes.

With simple, regular maintenance, Lanai Doors will continue to provide the seamless transitions, durability, and elegance that make them the leading alternative to French doors.


Contact for Support

If you have questions about the care of your Lanai Door system, please contact our corporate office:

Lanai Doors Corporate Office
941 N Elm St, Ste C
Orange, CA 92867
Phone: 866-907-DOOR (3667)