Installing an aluminum sliding door can be a straightforward process when following a few key steps involving the frame, door panel, and glass.
The installation typically proceeds in a logical sequence, ensuring the base is level, the door fits correctly, the glass is secured, and finally, the seals are in place.
Step 1: Fit the Cill
The foundation of your sliding door installation is the cill (also known as the sill or threshold).
- Fit the cill: Using the packers provided, ensure the cill is completely level.
Making sure the cill is perfectly level is crucial for the smooth operation and proper sealing of the sliding door. Packers are small shims used to adjust the level.
Step 2: Fit the Door
Once the cill is securely in place and level, the next step is positioning the main sliding door panel.
- Fit the door: To fit the door, position the sliding door in the opening, on the cill.
Carefully place the door panel onto the cill, aligning it within the structural opening. This sets the stage for installing the glass.
Step 3: Fit the Glass
The glass panels are typically installed after the main door frame and panel are in position.
- Fit the glass: Lift the glass into place and pack all sides.
Handling the glass requires care. Once the glass is set into its designated space within the door panel, use packing materials around all sides to hold it securely and properly aligned before the final sealing step.
Step 4: Fit the Push-In Wedge Gasket
The final step involves installing the gasket, which provides a weather-tight seal.
- Fit the push-in wedge gasket.
The wedge gasket is typically a flexible seal that is pushed into a groove around the glass to secure it firmly within the frame and prevent drafts and water ingress. Ensure it is fully seated around the perimeter of the glass.
By following these steps – ensuring the cill is level, positioning the door panel, installing and packing the glass, and finally fitting the gasket – you can successfully install your aluminum sliding door.
