How to Install Sliding Doors

Sliding doors are most commonly used between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Sliding glass doors are among the most popular, as they provide lots of natural light and allow for easy access between your home and a porch or patio area. A sliding door can greatly improve the look and feel of any home. As home improvement projects go, these doors are fairly easy and inexpensive to install.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sliding door kit
• Tape measure
• Electric drill
• Reciprocating saw
• Level
• Shims
• Lumber
• Basic carpentry tools
• Caulk
• Caulking gun
• Nails
• Screws

Prepare a Space for a Sliding Door

1. Measure the dimensions of your sliding door. Use a tape measure to get the length and height.

2. Trace those measurements onto the wall that you plan to use for your sliding door.

3. Drive long nails into each of the corners. Your goal is to drive the nails through to the other side. You may need the help of an electric drill.

4. Use the nail ends to trace the outline of your sliding door on the exterior wall. Make sure that these lines are straight and exact.

5. Use a reciprocating saw to cut through the wall, using the guides you've drawn. Clear away drywall and debris. Depending on your level of home improvement expertise, you may want to contract the services of a construction professional for this step.

6. Construct a wooden frame in which the sliding door assembly can rest. Use high-quality treated wood. Consult with a lumber or home improvement store professional to find the right materials for your home.

Install the Sliding Door Assembly

7. Line the edges of the door frame with an adhesive caulk.

8. Fit the sliding door's frame into the wall space you've created for it.

9. Use a level to make sure the door frame is resting correctly. Adjust vertical door jambs to ensure the sliding door is plumb. Insert shims along the base as needed to level the door.

10. Secure the sliding door into place. Use any screws included with the sliding door kit, and consider supplementing them with roofing nails. Add a dollop of caulk inside screw holes to waterproof them.

11. Install the glass doors into the mounted door frame. Consult your door's instruction manual for specific guidance, as different brands will have unique steps.

Tips & Warnings

• Before cutting through a wall, you'll need to be sure that it doesn't conceal any plumbing or electrical wiring. You'll also need to be sure that the wall isn't a "load bearing" wall. These walls are important to maintaining your home's structural integrity.
• For extra safety, consider investing in a pair of protective eye goggles and a dust mask before attempting to install sliding doors.