Installing two doors, often referred to as a double door setup, involves several steps to ensure proper function and alignment. Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. Preparation and Assessment
- Door Selection: Ensure both doors are the correct size and style for the opening. Are they pre-hung, or will you need to assemble the frames?
- Opening Preparation: Verify the door opening is square and level. Make any necessary adjustments to the framing before proceeding. This is critical for a successful installation.
- Tools and Materials: Gather the necessary tools, including a level, measuring tape, shims, drill/driver, screws, wood glue, and possibly a nail gun. You'll also need door hardware (hinges, handles, latch, strike plate).
2. Frame Installation (if not pre-hung)
- Assemble the Frame: Construct the door frame according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use wood glue and screws for a strong and secure frame.
- Position the Frame: Carefully place the assembled frame into the prepared opening.
- Shim and Level: Use shims to ensure the frame is perfectly level and plumb. Focus on the hinge side first.
- Secure the Frame: Once level and plumb, secure the frame to the wall studs using screws. Countersink the screws to avoid interference with the doors.
3. Door Installation
- Hinge Placement: Mark the location of the hinges on both the door and the frame. Consistent spacing is essential for a professional look.
- Attach Hinges: Mortise the door and frame for the hinges, if necessary, to ensure the hinges sit flush. Attach the hinges to both the doors and the frame.
- Hang the Doors: Carefully lift and position each door into the frame, aligning the hinges. Secure the hinges to the frame with screws. Start with the top hinge on each door.
4. Alignment and Adjustment
- Spacing: Ensure even spacing between the doors and the frame. This is particularly important at the top, sides, and bottom.
- Shimming: Use shims behind the hinges to fine-tune the door's alignment. Adjust as needed to ensure the doors swing smoothly and close properly.
- Latch and Strike Plate: Install the latch and strike plate, ensuring they align correctly. You might need to adjust the strike plate for a smooth latching action.
5. Finishing Touches
- Hardware Installation: Install door handles, knobs, or levers, following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Trim and Casing: Install trim and casing around the door frame for a finished look.
- Caulking and Painting: Caulk any gaps between the frame and the wall. Paint or stain the doors and trim to match your desired aesthetic.
Key Considerations for Double Doors
- Door Coordinator: A door coordinator is essential for double doors that need to close in a specific sequence. It ensures that one door closes before the other, preventing the latch from hitting the inactive door.
- Active and Inactive Doors: Determine which door will be the active door (the one used most frequently) and which will be the inactive door (the one typically held closed with bolts or surface bolts).
- Flush Bolts: Install flush bolts on the inactive door to secure it in place.
- Heavy Doors: If the doors are particularly heavy, consider reinforcing the frame and using heavier-duty hinges.
Example Scenario: Installing Pre-Hung Double Doors
Let's say you're installing pre-hung double doors. The main difference is that the frame is already assembled. You would skip step 2 and proceed directly to ensuring the opening is square and level, then shimming the pre-hung frame into place.
