Sliding doors are an exciting addition to any home, as they provide an open and airy environment in any room. At Green Doors, we’ve provided a straightforward guide for those interested in completing a sliding door installation to add modern convenience to their home.
Sliding Door Installation Considerations
Although we will cover how to effectively install an external sliding door, it’s worth noting that at Green Doors, we don’t recommend that our customers install their own sliding doors. Why is that the case? Well, because there are various parts to the installation that could go wrong, especially for individuals who haven’t done a sliding door installation before.
To ensure full functionality, a FENSA-approved fitter should be used to install sliding doors, as they will have the right expertise to make sure the door operates correctly, otherwise a wrong installation will damage the door and create even more problems. Sliding doors have several parts that need to be fit properly, and even some experienced fitters are not able to ensure the item is fit correctly.
If you have any questions regarding this, please contact us and one of our experts will be more than happy to help.
What are Sliding Doors?
External sliding doors offer seamless accessibility by gliding along a track and consist of large glass panels allowing sunlight to enter and brighten any room. They enhance both the appearance and functionality of any home environment.
Tools Required for Sliding Door Installation
Before you get started, it’s important to acquire all the necessary tools for installing sliding doors, including:
- Pencil and tape measure
- Ruler
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdriver and screws
- Stepladder
- Spirit level
- Rubber mallet
- Safety goggles
How to Install a Sliding Door in 7 Steps
1. Prepare Thoroughly
You can never be over prepared when it comes to installing a sliding door. Make sure you have adequate space to comfortably work and access all your tools. This may involve moving furniture and covering items to protect them from any dust created by drilling and removing the old door. Being well-prepared makes sliding door installation easier, and we also recommend having someone to assist you throughout the entire process.
2. Measure Your Door Frame
Measurements need to be exact when installing an external sliding door, which is why we advise having a tape measure, pencil and spirit level to ensure accuracy. You will also need to mark the location of where you will be installing your frame and tracks.
3. Install Sliding Door Tracks
Once you’ve finished measuring the width of the door opening and are certain there is enough space for your sliding doors, you can begin by installing the tracks. Start by installing the top track along your marked lines. You will need to use a drill and screws during this part of the installation process to ensure the track’s stability.
4. Attach the Rollers
Make sure you have the space to lay your sliding doors flat on a soft surface to locate the slots for the rollers. You might need to check the instructor’s manual to see exactly where to attach your rollers. In any instance, after you have securely fastened rollers, you need to test them out to make sure your doors are gliding properly.
5. Mount Door(s)
Start by carefully mounting the fixed panel first, followed by the panel you will be opening and closing. Keep the track free of debris and ensure it’s perfectly aligned so your door glides with ease. Double check all screws are tightened, so your track remains sturdy.
Once you’ve completed this step, you can test your doors and keep your eye out for anything that seems out of place, such as misalignment or any parts that aren’t fastened.
6. Consider Installing Sliding Door Guides
Door guides will help with the stability and alignment of your sliding doors. Especially with larger and heavier doors, that can be difficult to set back on track if they become misaligned. They’re not always a necessity but can certainly be useful for ensuring your doors remain on track.
7. Test Your New Sliding Door
Now that everything is in place, double check using your spirit level to ensure your doors are aligned and on the right track. Opening and closing your sliding doors a few times will give you a clear idea of their functionality and if there are any issues.
Explore our Sliding Doors Range Today
After reading our helpful blog, we hope you have a better idea of how to install sliding doors to bring practical and space-saving convenience to your home. Along with external sliding doors, we have an exciting range of bi-folds, French doors, front doors, back doors and much more.
Check out our blogs for more industry insight and expertise, including:
- Our guide on Sliding Doors vs French Doors
- Our guide on Sliding Doors vs Bi-fold Doors
These articles will help you to make the best possible decision for your home improvement project. If you have any enquiries, contact us and a member of our helpful team will respond promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Install Any Door as a Sliding Door?
Not all doors can be installed as sliding doors, as they require a specific design to roll effortlessly on a track. Sliding doors also need to be durable enough to withstand outdoor conditions.
How Long Does Sliding Door Installation Take?
On average, sliding door installation can take around two to four hours, but this will vary depending on how long it takes you to get the tracks levelled and if you’re removing an old door before beginning the process. At most, the job will take a day to ensure that it’s functioning properly.
Is it Possible to Secure a Sliding Door?
Absolutely, sliding doors can be equipped with secure multipoint locking systems, toughened glass and other security features to enhance safety.
