Easy Install - Patio Doors 101

Whether you've decided on Masonite French or Masonite's center-hinged patio doors, the fact is, that stunning new set of doors will never see its full potential leaning up against a wall in your garage. If you've come this far, then it's time to get serious about mounting your patio doors. Not only will installing them add some extra functionality to your home, your sense of pride and accomplishment will increase dramatically too!

french doors interior home depot

In just a few simple steps you can have your new doors installed and functioning beautifully.

FRENCH DOORS

1. Determine your Rough Opening and Door Frame size.
o Rough opening width is measured from the inside of the stud frame to the opposite stud.
o Rough opening height is measure from the sub-floor to the bottom of the header.

2. Do not proceed until the sub-floor is clean and level.

3. Remove all packaging from your door (including any wood screws in the top of the header).

4. Apply caulk to the flat surfaces of the bottom sill, bottom jambs, and grooves.

5. Fit the unit into the rough opening.
o Do not try this without assistance.

6. Shim and Fasten the unit.
o Shim the bottom of the unit, tightly and as indicated in your door's manual. Shim the top of the unit, as indicated.
o Confirm a 1/8" gap between the top of the door and the frame header.

7. Insulate and Install.
o Score the shims with a razor and snap them flush with the frame.
o Insulate any gaps between the frame and rough opening with fiberglass blanket insulation.

8. Extra Caulking
o Caulk all exterior corners and all around the brick siding. Caulk everywhere the exterior trim meets brick or siding trim.

9. I said there were 9 steps, right? Well, if there was another step, I'd instruct you to take a step back and admire your handiwork, because you have just installed your new patio doors!

Easy Install - Patio Doors 101

FRENCH DOORS