How to Install Bi-Fold Doors Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
Materials You’ll Need:
- Bi-fold door with knobs/pulls and hardware kit
- Pencil
- Drill with a wood drill bit and screwdriver bits
- Hammer
- Tape measure or measuring stick
- Long bubble level
Before You Begin:
- Ensure the door opening is level and square for proper door operation.
- Consider centering the door track in the frame or recessing the door slightly when closed.
- If repairing an existing door, purchase a hardware kit separately.
Step 1: Installing the Door Track
- Mark a center line down the top of the door frame for the track using a long level.
- Slide the pivot guide into the track with the pivot-pin hole facing the non-opening side.
- Align the track on the top jamb, mark the mounting screw holes, and drill pilot holes.
- Fasten the track with its mounting screws.
Step 2: Installing the Top Pivot Pin
- Insert the top pivot pin into the hole on the hinged (non-opening) door panel.
- Tap the pin gently into place with a hammer if necessary.
Step 3: Installing the Roller Pin
- Insert the roller pin into the hole on the opening door panel.
- Tap it in with a hammer, taking care not to damage the roller or spring.
Step 4: Installing the Bottom Pin
- Fold the door in half and insert the bottom pin into the hinged door panel.
- Tap it in gently with a hammer to seat it properly.
Step 5: Installing the Bottom Bracket
- Measure and mark the location of the L-shaped bottom bracket on the hinged side jamb.
- Drill pilot holes and fasten the bracket with its mounting screws.
- Ensure the bracket is aligned with the top track.
Step 6: Installing the Door Stop
- Push the spring-loaded door stop into the end of the track on the opening side.
- Do not hammer it, as it can break easily.
Step 7: Hanging the Door
- Insert the top pivot pin into the pivot guide in the track.
- Swing the bottom of the door into place onto the bottom bracket.
- Adjust the height of the door by unscrewing or screwing in the adjustable pivot on the bottom of the door if necessary.
- Check the gap between the door and hinge-side jamb and adjust the bottom pivot pin accordingly.
- Depress the spring-loaded wheel at the top of the door, swing the door into place, and release the wheel into the track.
- Open and close the door to check its operation.
Step 8: Installing Door Pulls
- Mark the center of the panels where you want to install the pulls or knobs.
- Drill holes and secure the hardware according to the instructions.
Tips for Troubleshooting Common Issues:
- If the door binds against the hinge-side jamb, move the top pivot pin guide and bottom pivot pin away from the jamb by an equal amount.
- If the door does not fit properly between the top guide and bottom bracket, raise or lower the door by adjusting the bottom pivot.
- If the gap between the door and the hinge-side jamb is uneven, adjust the position of the bottom pivot pin on its bracket.