A folding door is a practical design solution that lets you make the most of your space in a comfortable, functional way. These products are usually made of plastic or PVC, with finishes that improve their looks and suit any style, from the most modern to the classic. Fitting one is generally straightforward, but the steps involved in installing a folding door call for a steady hand and precision, the qualities of anyone who enjoys DIY. That is why the HD Casa team offers you a guide in simple steps, so you can direct your efforts and fit your new folding door flawlessly.
What you need to fit a folding door
Before we go through all the steps for fitting a folding door correctly and securely, let us look at what you will need. In a folding door installation kit you will find:
- a level (spirit or laser)
- a tape measure
- a drill
- a screwdriver and screws (or a power screwdriver)
- a hacksaw
- glue or silicone
- the inner door frame
- the vertical stop profiles
- the sliding track
- the outer trim frame
How to fit a folding door: the steps to follow
Fitting a folding door involves roughly 5 main steps. They are enough to guarantee a stable, accurate result that is both functional and good to look at. Let us go through in detail how a folding door is fitted.
Taking measurements
The first step to fitting a folding door correctly is to measure the opening precisely. Be careful, because the measurements must also allow for the thickness of the frame. At this stage it helps to know that in the vast majority of cases door openings come in standard sizes, so you only need to choose the door in the right size.
Fixing the frame
The frame can be fixed in two ways, depending on the type: there is the frame to be bonded with glue or silicone sealant (the same one we use, for example, to seal a shower enclosure), and the frame to be screwed in place using screws and a power screwdriver. Do take care to choose wall plugs that fully support the weight of the door and that suit the covering on your wall.
Installing the folding door
Once the frame is in place, fixing the folding door takes no particular effort, as long as you stay focused, precise and tidy. Insert the pins of the vertical rods into the track mounted on the ceiling and lock the track with the self-tapping screws. Straight after that, choose the direction in which you want the door to open.
Checking that the folding door is stable
With the previous steps done, the job is almost finished: only a few quick checks are left. After fitting the door panel, make sure it is stable by opening and closing the door repeatedly and applying light pressure, without forcing it, to check that the structure stays firmly in the track. Once you are sure the door is perfectly fitted, you can go on to install the handle and lock.
Fitting the handle and lock
One point needs making about fitting the handle and lock: since they come in different types, there is no single procedure for installing them. You need to refer directly to the instruction manual supplied with the door you buy. What we can tell you, though, is that fitting these two parts is almost immediate and intuitive.
How long it takes to fit a folding door
Fitting a folding door does not take up too much time, but to be sure of doing a precise job that results in a stable door working properly even after a long while, you need at least one day of work. If you add to that the possible need to source all the materials, the time can stretch considerably. It is worth bearing in mind, though, that the steps for fitting a folding door are few and above all simple: once the installation is under way, you will rarely hit anything that slows the work down much.
Folding doors: style and innovation in your home
Folding doors are perfect for anyone who needs to divide two small rooms cleverly and practically. These furnishing elements make the most of tight spaces and adapt to every nook, letting you get real use out of every corner of the house. More than that, folding doors have evolved considerably over time in terms of design too, with appealing, modern styles and architectural solutions that will match your idea of the ideal home perfectly. The right choice for enjoying the pleasure of feeling at home.
