How To Fit Patio Doors in 8 Steps (Installation Guide)

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your home with new patio doors or replace an existing door, this step-by-step tutorial will walk you through the process with ease. Installing patio doors not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also allows for better natural light and easy access to your outdoor space. Once you have an idea for your patio door, it’s hard to get it out of your head.

The average person waits 15+ years before they replace their patio door. This means the external doors that they are living with are the doors that initially came with the house in most cases. Doors this old have lost most, if not all, of their energy efficiency and functionality.

By following these instructions and using professional patio door installation techniques, you’ll have your new patio doors up and functioning smoothly in no time.

A quick note on FENSA

If you’re planning to install patio doors in your home, understanding FENSA’s role is crucial. Here’s a summary of how FENSA affects your patio door installation:

FENSA Certification

FENSA (Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme) provides certification for window and door installations, including patio doors1. When you choose a FENSA Approved Installer, you’re ensuring that your installation will comply with building regulations1.

Benefits of Using a FENSA Approved Installer

1. Compliance Assurance: FENSA Approved Installers are regularly assessed to maintain compliance with building regulations1.
2. Automatic Registration: Your installation will be automatically registered with the local council, which is a legal requirement1.
3. FENSA Certificate: Upon completion, you’ll receive a FENSA certificate, which serves as proof of compliance1.

Important Considerations

• Scope: FENSA covers replacement of external doors, including patio doors, in existing buildings. It doesn’t apply to new builds, extensions, or conservatories1.
• Building Regulations: Using a FENSA Approved Installer eliminates the need for separate building control inspections, saving you time and money1.
• Responsibility: If you don’t use a FENSA Approved Installer, it’s your responsibility to ensure the installation is registered with the local council and complies with building regulations1.

Finding an Installer

FENSA provides a service to help you find approved installers in your area, ranging from local companies to national brands1. When getting quotes, always confirm that the installer will provide a FENSA certificate upon completion of the work1.

By choosing a FENSA Approved Installer for your patio doors, you can ensure compliance with regulations and avoid potential legal issues or complications when selling your property in the future.

You can find out more about FENSA here.

How to Install Patio Doors in 8 Steps

Of course it’s always best to hire a professional when installing patio doors, however if you’re a DIY connoisseur then we have some basic steps below whether you’ve chosen sliding patio doors, classic new french doors or contemporary bifold doors.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before you begin the installation process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:

• Patio doors (sliding, french, or bifold)
• Screws and plugs/frame fixers
• Frame packers
• Spirit Level
• Tape measure
• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Sealant
• Sealant gun
• Safety glasses and gloves

Ensure you have everything on hand before starting to avoid interruptions during the installation process.

Step 2: Prepare the Area

Clear the area where the patio doors will be installed. Remove any door furniture such as rugs, or obstacles to provide ample space for working. If you’re replacing old patio doors, carefully remove them along with the door frame. Clean the area thoroughly to ensure a smooth installation surface.

Step 3: Measure and Adjust

Accurate measurements are crucial for a seamless installation. Measure the height and width of the door frame opening to ensure your new patio doors will fit correctly. If necessary, adjust the opening by trimming to accommodate the dimensions of your new doors.

Step 4: Install the Door Frame

Before attempting to install any patio doors please thoroughly check the manufacturer’s instructions. Depending on how you receive the doors, how they are installed will impact how they need to be installed. For example, some doors will come fitted with the frame already installed, with or without glazing etc. 

Start by installing the door frame according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a level to ensure the frame is plumb and level before securing it in place with screws and plugs or frame fixers, use frame packers to prevent distorting the frame . Properly aligning the door frame is essential for smooth operation and preventing drafts.

Step 5: Mount the Patio Doors

With the door frame in place, it’s time to install the patio doors. Depending on the type of doors you’ve chosen (sliding, french, or bifold), follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting them onto the frame. Use a level to check for even alignment and adjust as needed before securing the doors in place.

Step 6: Test the Doors

Once the patio doors are installed, test them to ensure they open and close smoothly without any obstructions. Check for proper sealing and insulation to prevent drafts and energy loss. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal functionality.

Step 7: Seal and Insulate

To enhance energy efficiency and weatherproofing, seal around the edges of the door frame with sealant. Pay special attention to gaps and seams to prevent air leaks. 

Read More: Which Patio Doors are the Most Energy Efficient?

Step 8: Finishing Touches

With the patio doors securely installed, add any finishing touches to enhance their appearance and functionality. This may include installing blinds or curtains for privacy, adding a door handle and lock for security.

How to Fit Patio Doors: Can I Do It Myself?

Yes, you can install patio doors yourself if you have the necessary tools, time, and a bit of DIY experience. Replacing an old patio door with a new one, whether it’s new French doors, sliding patio doors, or bifold doors, can be a manageable task for a confident DIYer. 

However, it’s important to ensure you have accurate measurements, a level frame, and proper sealing to avoid future issues like drafts or door misalignment. As mentioned above you’ll also have to take into consideration FENSA.

If you’re dealing with structural adjustments or simply want a hassle-free experience, hiring a professional may be the best route to ensure your new patio doors are installed smoothly and securely.

You Might Like: How Much Do Patio Doors Cost?

Why Install New Patio Doors?

Installing new patio doors offers numerous benefits beyond just aesthetic appeal. Here are several reasons why upgrading to new patio doors is a wise investment:

Enhanced Natural Light

Patio doors are designed to maximise natural light, brightening up your living space and reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. A modern sliding glass door not only creates a more inviting atmosphere but also helps lower energy costs.

Improved Energy Efficiency

Older patio doors may have worn weather-stripping or inadequate insulation, leading to drafts and energy loss. New patio doors are designed with advanced sealing technologies and energy-efficient materials, helping to keep your home comfortable year-round and reduce heating and cooling expenses.

Easy Access to Outdoor Space

Whether you have a garden, patio, or balcony, patio doors provide seamless access to your outdoor living areas, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor space. This makes entertaining, gardening, or simply enjoying the fresh air more convenient and enjoyable.

Increased Home Value

Upgrading to new patio doors can significantly enhance the resale value of your home. Potential buyers are drawn to properties with modern, energy-efficient features, making new patio doors a worthwhile investment if you plan to sell in the future.

Enhanced Security Features

In 70% of burglaries, the offender enters the dwelling through the door. Only 30% of burglaries occur with the burglar gaining entry through a window.

Many modern patio doors come equipped with advanced security features, the best patio doors for security will have multi-point locking systems and impact-resistant glass, providing added peace of mind against intruders and potential accidents.

Variety of Styles and Designs

From sleek sliding doors to elegant French doors to space-saving bifold doors, there’s a wide range of styles and types of patio doors to choose from to suit your home’s aesthetic and functional requirements. You can also customise features like glass patterns, frame colours, and hardware finishes to complement your interior decor.

Better Insulation and Soundproofing

New patio doors with double or triple-pane glass provide superior insulation against outdoor temperatures and noise pollution, creating a quieter, more comfortable living environment.

Looking for Modern and Reliable Patio Door Solutions?

Installing patio doors may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, materials, and know-how, it’s a manageable project that can significantly enhance your home’s functionality and appearance. Whether you’re replacing old doors or installing new ones, following these steps will help you achieve professional results and enjoy the benefits of your patio doors for years to come.

DoorsDirect2U have over 40 years of experience providing internal door and external door solutions to suit all budgets and specifications. You can purchase with confidence safe in the knowledge all products are backed with a manufacturer’s guarantee.Shop all Patio Doors and French Doors or contact us for expert advice!

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