How do I open up a room with sliding glass door?
Question:I want replace a window with a sliding glass patio door. How would I do this?
Answers:
First check is there are any columns or consealed services in wall at new door area. If there is then you cannot install door there without a lot of trouble.
You will have to remove a bit larger than your door area to put in vertical stiffeners, or the constant force and movement will cause the wall next to door to crack.
In lay top, side and bottom track/frame and infill grout behind.
Make sure vertical/level.
Install Sliding glass panels and add lock. You will have to adjust/modify lock hole at side of door and frame.
I think you should get a door installer for this though.
If the door is more narrow than the window there will be no problem, it is easier to go same size or smaller. Also, be sure to level the sub floor beneath the threshold. If you choose to go larger, you should consult a qualified contractor because you will be dealing with structural issues.
Lets hope the window is 6 feet wide so you wont have to make a new header with new cripples.
If not...You have some remodeling to do. Example...if the window is four feet wide..Your going to need a 74 in rough opening. So from each side of your window..pull 13 inches away from the window on the wall and make a mark...do this on top and bottom of each side of the window. Use a level to make a 6 foot line on each side of the window. Top of window to floor. Cut the drywall out. Now you can see what you have to work with.You may need to brace the ceiling while you pull out the old header and put the new header in. I would precut everything before i pull out the old header. Have the new header and cripples ready to go so i can nail em in place when the old one comes out. This is very simple if you have any carpentry knowledge. Good luck
Very carefully! Obviously being as your asking, you`ve never done this before. With little or no back round in this area, it would`nt really be considered a DIY project. There are just too many unforseen problems that could and will pop up and eventually bite you in the *** ( notice I used dollar signs). Hire a pro! The price may seem high at the start, but in the end you`ll be glad you did! By the way, a previous post stated you need 74 inches as a RO. Not true. Five foot wide units are readily available.
The first issue is locating the load bearing studs in that wall.
You'll need a Lintel above the door frame.
Hopefully the transition space is level, or can be made so, and finally with no offense at all, why not French Doors? Sliding glass doors are limiting, in my opinion.
Steven Wolf
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