How to Install a Sliding Door Bar Mount

The sliding door bar is a two-piece metal rod that is hinged on one end and telescopes out to whatever width is needed to bar the door. The rod then snaps down into a catch and has a locking mechanism that keeps the rod from telescoping back into itself. If your sliding door doesn't lock for any reason, installing a "Charlie Bar" provides security in a flash following these directions.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tape measure
• "Charlie Bar" and hardware (kit)
• Level
• Hammer
• Screwdriver
• Marker

1. Measure your sliding door from the inside doorjamb to the edge of the frame on the slider to determine what size door bar you will need. Purchase the kit.

2. Mount the hinged pocket attachment to the inside doorjamb with screws at a comfortable height for hand operation, normally about the center of the door.

3. Secure the telescoping rod door bar to the hinge with metal screws, unless it came already attached to the hinged pocket.

4. Push the telescoping end out until it contacts the inside frame of the opposite sliding door.

5. Check for level and mark where the bottom of the rod contacts the door frame.

6. Retract the telescoping rod and let it swing down on its hinges.

7. Fasten the rod catch to the door frame at the height marked with either wood or metal screws, depending on the composition of the sliding door. Your sliding door bar is now mounted and ready for use.

Tips & Warnings

• An optional key lock can be installed on the catch end, thus keeping the door from being opened from either inside or out without the key.

Resources

• Order sliding door bars at Ace Hardware's website.
• Visit Goodbar Security's website for products and information.