Sliding closet doors come in three types - bifold, bypass and pocket. All three are space-saving solutions that slide along a track instead of opening into the room, but there are differences. Bifold doors are hinged in the middle so they can fold in half when opened, while bypass door remain flat and simply slide past one another. Pocket doors slide along a track into a recess within the wall, which is why these doors are better installed by professionals. Bifold and bypass doors, on the other hand, are easy to install yourself with a few basic parts. Does this Spark an idea?
Doors
Doors come in a variety of styles. They can be solid, louvered, mirrored, clear glass or paned, finished or unfinished. If you are installing unfinished doors, paint or stain the first. It is much easier to touch up any scratches from installation than it is to paint hanging doors. Bifold doors are generally lighter and easier to handle because of their compactness, but bypass door can be quite large and heavy, especially if they're mirrored. Make sure you have someone around to help you maneuver the doors into the track.
Tracks
Some doors operate from a single top track, but most sliding doors use both a top and bottom track. The type of door you choose determines the type of track you need, so make sure you use the track specified by the door installation instructions. It is very important that both tracks be installed straight and level, and directly across from each other. If not, your doors will not open, or they may repeatedly fall off the track. Doors that use a single top track are notorious for coming off-track so never use a single-track system with heavy mirrored or paned doors.
Miscellaneous Hardware
Some doors require knobs or handles, while others have a built-in ridge that works as a grip. Most bifold doors come pre-hinged, but some require you to install the hinges yourself. Bifold doors also require an inside door leveler, which keeps the doors flush when they are closed. Most doors come with all the necessary hardware, but read the packaging carefully to see what is included and what must be purchased separately. For example, most tracks come with the necessary installation brackets, but some manufacturers sell them separately. Make sure you have all the necessary parts before you begin the installation process.
Tags: Bifold doors, along track, bypass door, come with, come with necessary
