How to Properly Install a Sliding Patio Door

Sliding patio doors are a great asset to any home. Their large expanses of glass can bring the appearance of the outdoors inside, visually opening up even the darkest rooms. Installing a patio door is not a difficult project. If you have some basic carpentry skills and the proper tools, you can have a patio door in your home.

Supplies

• Hammer


• Saw


• Screwdriver


• Foam insulation


• Level


• Tape measure

1. Measure and cut the rough opening for the door. Make the opening 1/2 inch larger than the door on the top and sides. This will allow for easy placement of the door frame into the opening.

2. Make sure the opening is level and that the header is made of substantial lumber, to support the door's weight. This is very important. Weak headers can cause doors to sag and not open properly.

3. Try fitting the door into the opening once it is level. Install the door. Use your level to verify that the project is plumb. Install any necessary shims and nail the flange plate in place in the opening to hold the door secure.

4. Caulk around the entire opening of the door frame to seal. Having a proper seal will help the door to be energy efficient.

5. Adjust the opening and closing of the door with the adjustment screw on the bottom of the door panel. The glass panels should be level at the top.

6. Install the door handle and locking hardware, per the manufacturer's instructions.

7. Install any insulation between the jamb and the frame on the interior and exterior of the opening. Foam insulation is a good choice, as it goes very easily between crevices, to form a tight seal.

8. Trim the interior and exterior with decorative trim, to finish the project.