How to Replace and Install a Sliding Door

Before you begin replacing a sliding glass door, you’ll want to choose the right size exterior doors to ensure they fit in your space. Many homeowners replace sliding glass doors with newer models as a simple design update. Many include sliding door locks that offer added security as well.

Here’s how you can figure what size door to get:

• Remove the casing. Carefully take off the casing around the existing door frame to expose the studs. Place the casing somewhere safe to avoid damage.
• Measure the rough opening. Measure horizontally across the top, middle and bottom. Then, measure vertically on both sides and in the center.
• Use the smallest measurement for the best fit. For example, if the top measures 80 inches and the bottom measures 81 inches, use 80 inches.
• Be sure to leave about 1/4 inch on each side for shimming and adjustments during installation.
• Measure everything twice to confirm accuracy before purchasing your new door. Once you have these measurements, you can begin shopping for new patio doors that fit the look of your home.

• Inspect for proper size and condition and verify that all parts are included. Inspect existing wall and rough opening for structural decay. Repair as needed.
• Inspect opening for correct size. Opening should be 1/2-inch larger than door size in width and height.
• Check sill plate for level. Sill must be level. If sill is not level, correct before continuing. Check rough opening for plumb and level. If rough opening is not plumb or level, correct as necessary.
• Check opening for square by measuring diagonally, upper left to lower right and upper right to lower left corner. Measurements must be within 1/8-inch. If rough opening is not square, correct as necessary.
• As you begin replacing a sliding glass door, take a minute to test fit your prehung sliding door to the opening. Make any adjustments from the inside. Then, use shims as needed to ensure a secure fit.
• Create a piece of drip edge the size of the opening. Apply silicone caulk to your drip edge. Caulk along the top of the opening between your siding and house wrap.

• Create a sill pan to fit in the opening using roll flashing. A sill pan is used to collect and redirect water away from the door or window frame. Add caulk to the bottom edge of the opening. Firmly press the sill pan into the caulk.
• Put silicone caulk around the edges of your opening where your siding and house wrap meet. You’ll also want to put a small amount of caulk at the bottom of the opening.

• Begin positioning the door into the opening from your exterior area.
• Tilt the door into the opening with the bottom side going in first. Insert shims as necessary to create a secure fit.
• Use shims under screw holes to help keep your threshold in good shape.
• Place shims around the edges and top of your door frame every 12 inches.
• Add your door hinges. Using a drill, secure them in place with screws.

• Check that the brick mould is flat against the frame on the outside. If it is, use 10d finishing nails to secure the brick mould and framing roughly every 12 inches or so. Countersink the nail heads. You can also use trim head screws as well.
• Move inside the house and use 10d finishing nails, driving them outward through the shims and into the framing. Countersink the nail heads.
• Use a utility knife to cut the excess shims. Break or cut them off so they’re flush with the door frame.
  "Flush" means that they're even with the frame and don't stick out.

• Secure the threshold to the door with screws. Make sure the screws aren’t exposed.
• Use expanding foam insulation to seal any gaps between the door frame and wall. Use a putty knife to remove the excess after it dries.
• Cover the foam insulation with trim.
• Add a small amount of caulk to the visible joint between the trim and interior wall area.
• Use paintable silicone caulk around the exterior door casing.
• Fill all nail holes with spackle to give your door frame a finished look.

Replacing a broken sliding door panel can be a project you can do. First, determine if you are replacing a stationary (non-moving) or sliding door panel.

• Measure the height and width of your existing door accurately so your new door fits.
• If there’s a screen door, lift it upward and pull the bottom edge out of the track to remove it.
• Retract the rollers by using a screwdriver to turn the adjustment screws at the bottom of the panel counterclockwise.
• Remove the old panel. Lift the panel up into the upper track, tilt it toward you and carefully remove it.
• Clean the upper and lower track to remove trash and dirt.
• Tilt the top of the new panel into the upper track first and make sure it fits.
• Gently lower the bottom edge into the lower track.
• If installing a sliding panel, make sure the door slides smoothly and adjust the rollers if necessary.
• If installing a stationary panel, use the provided brackets or screws to secure it to the frame.
• Make sure both sides of your repaired door slides, aligns and functions properly.

Tip: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific door model for the best results.