How to Install Folding Doors on Carpet
Installing a set of bifold doors is a good idea for closets of laundry areas. These doors are quite inexpensive and come in a variety of styles. Some bifold doors are painted already, while others have to be stained or painted. Bifold doors come in standard sizes such as 24, 30, or 36 inches wide and are typically 80 inches high. The height on some bifold doors can be cut down, but the width usually can't be adjusted. Installing thes doors on carpet can be tricky because they need a proper mount and have to be able to open and close without interfering with the carpet itself. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Ladder
- Pen
- Level
- Utility knife
- Scrap piece of 2-by-4
- 8-penny nails
- Hammer
- Plumb bob
Instructions
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1
Set up the ladder.
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2
Measure width and height to make sure the new door is going to fit properly, using a tape measure. Measure the height from the top of your carpet to the top of the ceiling area where your door track will mount. Subtract about 3/8 inch to make sure the door won't drag on the carper when it's being opened and closed.
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3
Install the bifold top header on the ceiling where the top of the door will attach. Center it in the opening. Measure across the opening with a tape measure to find the exact center. Mark the location with a pen as you use a level to line it up dead center.
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4
Mark the screw locations with the marking pen. Use the cordless drill and screw bits to attach the screws through the holes and up into the ceiling.
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5
Install the pivot bracket in the upper track section you just installed. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Usually the pivot bracket simply pushes up and snaps into the frame. Slide it down the track until it is about 1/4 to 3/8 inch from the end.
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6
Cut away a small section of your carpet on the floor with a utility knife, directly below the upper pivot bracket. Nail a small piece of scrap 2-by-4 to the floor. Make sure it is slightly higher than the carpet.
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7
Install the lower pivot bracket by screwing it to the 2-by-4. Use a plumb bob so it's directly below the upper pivot bracket. This is critical so the upper portion and lower portion of the door will line up perfectly.
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8
Insert the guide pins and adjustable pivots into the top and bottom holes in the bifold door. Use a hammer to drive them into the holes.
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9
Hang the door by placing it in position. Lift up the guide pin until it goes in the pivot bracket on the top of the door. Lower the door until the lower guide pin and adjustable pivot lines up with the lower pivot bracket.
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10
Screw on the doorknob. Close and open the door unit to make sure it functions properly.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear eye protection, gloves, kneepads and a dust mask for this project.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
