Changing your wardrobe doors is a practical way to update the look and feel of your room. The process generally involves removing the existing doors and installing new ones.
Simple Steps to Change Wardrobe Doors
Here's a breakdown of the key steps involved:
1. Remove the Old Doors
The first step is to carefully remove the old wardrobe doors. This process varies slightly depending on the type of doors you have:
- Hinged Doors: These are typically attached to the wardrobe frame with hinges. You will need to remove the old doors from the wardrobe by unscrewing them from their hinges. A screwdriver is usually all that's required. Work from the bottom hinge upwards, supporting the door as you unscrew the last hinge to prevent it from falling.
- Sliding Doors: These doors often sit on tracks at the top and bottom of the wardrobe opening. To remove them, you generally need to lift them slightly and then sliding them out of their tracks. Sometimes there are clips or screws securing them that need to be released first.
Once the old doors are removed, set them aside safely.
2. Prepare for New Doors
With the old doors gone, take some time to clean the wardrobe frame and tracks (if applicable). Inspect the hinges or tracks to ensure they are in good condition for the new doors.
3. Purchase Replacement Doors
Choosing the right replacement doors is crucial. You need to choose replacement doors that match the style of your existing wardrobe and are the correct size. Consider factors like:
- Style: Do you want mirrored doors, panel doors, shaker style, or something modern like slab doors? Ensure the style complements your room décor.
- Size: Accurate measurements are essential. Measure the height and width of the opening and check the specifications required for the hinge type or track system you will be using.
- Type: Are you replacing hinged doors with hinged doors, or sliding doors with sliding doors? While it's possible to convert, it often requires more structural work.
- Material & Finish: Options range from wood and MDF to laminate and glass. Consider durability and maintenance.
Example Replacement Door Types:
- Hinged
- Sliding
- Bi-fold
| Door Type | Removal Method | Installation Method |
|---|---|---|
| Hinged | Unscrew from hinges | Screw onto hinges |
| Sliding | Lift and slide out of tracks | Lift and slot into tracks |
| Bi-fold | Unscrew from track/pivot points | Screw into track/pivot points |
4. Install the New Doors
Installation involves attaching the new doors to the wardrobe.
- Hinged Doors: Attach the hinges to the new doors (if they don't come pre-attached), then align the door with the wardrobe frame and screw the hinges onto the frame. It helps to have a second person support the door during this step.
- Sliding Doors: Lift the new doors and carefully slot the top guides into the upper track, then lower the bottom wheels or guides into the lower track. Adjustments might be needed to ensure they slide smoothly and are plumb.
5. Final Adjustments
After installation, check that the doors open and close smoothly, hang straight, and align properly. Make any necessary adjustments to hinges or tracks.
By following these steps, you can successfully change your wardrobe doors and refresh the look of your space.
