Installing a sliding glass door can completely change your living space. It allows more natural light in and creates a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor areas.
Although this complex project requires advanced carpentry skills, the result is well worth the effort. In this guide, we’ll take you through the process of installing a sliding glass door, from preparing the opening to securing the final components. This Old House general contractor, Tom Silva, demonstrates the installation process in the video above, highlighting the steps to create a beautiful and functional entryway.
Tools and Materials for a Sliding Glass Door Installation
Below, we’ve listed the materials and tools required for your sliding door project.
Tools
- 12-pound sledgehammer
- Concrete screws
- Garden hose
- Measuring tape
- Mortar tub
- Reciprocating saw
- Shovel
- Silicone sealant
- Staple gun
- Trowel
Materials
- 2.5-inch (8d) nails
- 3.5-inch nails
- 3-inch screws
- 5/8-inch-thick exterior-grade plywood
- Builder’s paper
- Doorjamb
- Minimal-expanding foam insulation
- New sliding door
- Pressure-treated 2×4
- Shingles
- Quick-setting cement
- Silicone sealant
- Standard lumber for wall studs, king studs, and top plate
- Wood shims
Prepare the Opening for a Sliding Glass Door
Before installing your new sliding glass door, you’ll need to prepare the existing opening. This process involves removing the old door or window and creating a suitable space for the new installation.
Remove the Old Door or Window
- Use a reciprocating saw to cut around the old window or door frame.
- Carefully remove the lower section of the wall by pulling it out.
- Extract the old door or window from the wall opening.
Create a Level Surface
You must create a level surface for your new sliding glass door:
- Remove any existing concrete curb at the bottom of the wall opening using a 12-pound sledgehammer.
- Install a pressure-treated 2×4 form on the floor, securing it with concrete screws.
- Mix quick-setting cement and fill the form, creating a level surface for the door.
- Allow the cement to cure for 24 hours before proceeding with the installation.
Frame the Sliding Glass Door Opening
After removing the old door or window and creating a level surface, it’s time to frame the opening for your new sliding glass door.
Building the Frame
- Construct a wood-frame wall to reduce the width of the opening if necessary.
- Use pressure-treated lumber for the sill plate and standard lumber for wall studs, king studs, and top plates.
- Cover the newly framed wall section with 5/8-inch-thick exterior-grade plywood.
- Fasten the plywood sheathing to the studs using 2.5-inch (8d) nails.
Add a Filler Piece
To create a straight edge for the door installation, use a 2×4 filler to fit across the top of the wall opening. Next, nail the filler in place using 3.5-inch nails.
Prepare for Glass Door Installation
Before installing the sliding glass door, take these essential steps to guarantee a weathertight seal and proper fit.
Weatherproof
Staple the builder’s paper to the exterior surface of the plywood sheathing. Apply a thick bead of silicone sealant around the nailing flange on the doorjamb and along the top of the sill.
Position the Door
- Set the doorjamb into the rough opening, ensuring the nailing flange fits under the shingles.
- Measure the diagonals of the doorjamb to confirm it’s square.
- Secure the jamb to the rough opening by inserting wood shims behind it.
Install the Sliding Glass Door
Next, we’ll walk you through the sliding glass door installation.
- Drive 3-inch screws through the jamb, shims, and into the 2×4 frame. Make sure the frame is level and plumb before fully securing it.
- Set the active, rolling glass panel into the doorjamb.
- Install the stationary glass panel into the jamb.
- Screw through the retaining clips to securely hold the stationary panel in place.
- Fill the void around the inside of the door with minimal-expanding foam insulation.
- Apply weatherstripping around the door frame as needed.
- Caulk any visible gaps on the exterior of the door frame.
Finishing Touches for a Perfect Sliding Glass Door
Complete the installation with these final steps to make sure your new sliding glass door functions properly.
Interior and Exterior Finishing
- Cover the exterior of the new wall section with shingles to match the house.
- Apply trim around the door frame for a polished look.
- Install interior trim around the door frame.
- Paint or stain the trim to match your home’s interior.
Testing and Adjusting
- Test the sliding door to ensure smooth operation.
- Adjust the rollers if necessary for proper alignment.
- Check the locking mechanism to confirm secure closure.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Sliding Glass Door Working
To keep your new sliding glass door in optimal condition, clean the track regularly to prevent debris buildup, which can impede smooth operation. Lubricate the rollers and locking mechanism each year to ensure effortless sliding and secure locking. Periodically inspect the weatherstripping and replace it as needed to maintain energy efficiency and prevent drafts.
