A Complete Guide on How to Install Sliding External Doors

February 27, 2024

Sliding external doors are a popular choice among homeowners due to their space-saving design and ability to seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces.

If you’re a trade installer, it’s important to have the knowledge and skills required for installing these doors correctly. In this guide, we will walk you through the installation process of both uPVC and aluminium sliding external doors.

Beginning the installation process

Preparation

Before starting the installation process, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials at hand. This includes screws, sealant, drill bits, measuring tape, leveller, screwdriver or drill driver with appropriate attachments.

Measuring

Accurate measurements are crucial for ensuring that your sliding door fits perfectly into the opening without any gaps or misalignments. Measure both height and width of the opening multiple times to ensure accuracy.

Removal of existing door (if applicable):

If there is an existing door in place that needs replacing with a sliding door, carefully remove it by unscrewing hinges or tracks from the frame.

Deceuninck Slider 24 from Dekko

The Slider 24 patio door from Deceuninck provides superb levels of weather resistance, durability, and a low threshold for easy access. It is available with 2, 3 or 4 panels with a maximum frame width of 5,932mm. The 3-pane option can be specified with either a central sliding pane or end slider.

Available in your choice of 26 colours including authentic woodgrain foils, it’s the perfect sliding patio door for a range of applications.

How do I install the Deceuninck Slider 24 patio door?

• Start by placing a sill adapter onto your threshold if needed.
• Fit weatherstripping along each side of the opening where panels will slide.
• Attach track brackets using screws provided in your kit.
• Insert rollers into pre-drilled holes on bottom edges of each panel.
• Place first panel into position on top track while making sure it sits securely in its bracket below.
• Repeat above step for remaining panels until all are installed securely within their respective brackets.
• Ensure proper alignment by adjusting roller heights as necessary before tightening down bolts securing them together horizontally across tops/bottoms between adjacent units using included Allen wrenches
• Tighten screws holding vertical mullions tightly against frames near corners if applicable
• Seal around exterior perimeter joints where they meet wall using sealant provided
• Test the sliding motion of the doors to ensure smooth operation.

Räum aluminium patio doors from Dekko

Räum aluminium patio doors are available as either a horizontal triple track sliding door or with an innovative lift and slide opening system. The horizontal sliding system activates when the lock is engaged and slides effortlessly open.

The lift and slide variation is activated once the handle is turned 180 degrees, enabling the whole sliding sash to be raised and slide smoothly along the track.

Both systems are durable and energy efficient, and suitable for a wide range of residential and commercial applications.

How do I install Räum aluminium patio doors?

• Begin by installing a sill track onto your threshold if required.
• Fit weatherstripping along each side of the opening where panels will slide.
• Attach top and bottom tracks using screws provided in your kit.
• Insert rollers into pre-drilled holes on bottom edges of each panel.
• Place first panel into position on top track while making sure it sits securely in its bracket below. Repeat this step for remaining panels until all are installed securely within their respective brackets.
• Tighten down bolts securing them together horizontally across tops/bottoms between adjacent units using included Allen wrenches.
• Seal around exterior perimeter joints where they meet wall using sealant provided
• Lift and slide variation: Turn handle 180 degrees to activate lift and slide mechanism, allowing entire sash to be raised before smoothly sliding along the track.

The finishing touches

Once you have successfully installed the sliding external door, make sure to check for any gaps or misalignments. Adjust as necessary to ensure proper sealing against drafts and water ingress. Apply additional sealant around frame if needed.

By following these steps, you can confidently install both uPVC and aluminium sliding external doors with precision.

The natural light brought by double glazing combined with high-quality materials such as aluminium frames makes these doors a perfect choice. They offer excellent thermal performance while providing functionality through their variety of styles. Slimmer frames alo allow more natural light into any space, and standard sizes can accommodate larger openings.

Ensure you consult expert advice when choosing which door system is best suited for your needs. Depending on your requirements, Räum’s lift-and-slide variation may provide enhanced thermal efficiency compared to Deceuninck’s Slider 24 patio door.

Trade support from Dekko

At Dekko Window Systems, we are dedicated to supporting all our customers.  We want to provide our Approved Installers with everything they need to be successful.  We also want to connect homeowners with our installation specialists to help with any home renovation projects.

We offer a nationwide delivery service and strive to always deliver on schedule.  We offer all our trade customers extensive after sales and marketing support to help them to showcase their product range.

Dekko have an in-depth knowledge of the glazing industry encompassing product knowledge, manufacturing techniques, and sector trends.  When you choose Dekko as your window and door supplier, you access a wealth of valuable information to help you to grow your business.

How can Dekko help you?

Dekko is a leading supplier of high-quality composite doors, uPVC and aluminium windows and doors, serving to the trade. For more information on our products and services, give us a call today on 0161 406 0055 or contact us online.

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