Property owners who are gearing up to install a new sliding glass door need accurate measurements for the installation. The accuracy of the measurement prevents issues when the property owner orders their door. Contractors follow strict guidelines to determine the exact measurements and avoid errors. Contractors at Milgard assist property owners in obtaining the measurements and providing custom-built sliding glass doors that enhance the home.

Do You Need to Remove the Silicone Seal?

Yes, the silicone seal is removed to prevent inaccuracies in measurements. Utility knives are invaluable when removing the silicone seal. Take the utility knife and run it around the door frame and open up the seal. Trim all old silicone and paint from around the door frame. All layers of silicone and paint need to be removed completely.

How Do You Remove the Sliding Door Trim?

A crowbar is adequate to use when removing the sliding door trim. However, pay close attention and proceed with caution. Remove all nails and screws holding it into place carefully to prevent damage.

Where Do You Start Measuring?

Using a tape measure, determine the width of the door from stud to stud. The measurement reflects the rough opening of the existing door. The door width is measured at the top, the center, and along the bottom of the door opening. Start at the side jambs at the widest accessible portion. The smallest of the three measurements is the correct measurement for the door width.

Next, measure the height of the opening. Start by measuring at the far left, then the center, and at the far right. Measure between the top or head jamb and the bottom or the seal at the tallest accessible portion. The smallest of the three measurements is the correct measurement for the door height.

Next, establish the depth of the door opening. Measure the width of the jamb without the trim. Measure from edge to edge across the existing door frame. Take all three measurements to your contractor when ordering your sliding glass door.

What Factors Affect the Measurements for the Door?

The type of sliding glass door chosen could alter the exact measurements. For example, the doors are available as two or three-panel installations. The average widths for two-panel doors are sixty inches, seventy-two inches, and ninety-six inches. The average widths for three-panel doors are nine feet and twelve feet.

Custom-built sliding glass doors meet and/or exceed these measurements. Contractors who install the doors may need to knock out portions of the surrounding wall to accommodate your selections. The contractor needs the exact measurements of the spaces when generating an accurate quote for the total installation.

How Do You Measure for Screens for the Sliding Glass Doors?

Measure the door starting at the inside of the side jamb and extend the tape measure to the center stile at the opposite end. This measurement is the width. The height is determined by measuring at the top of the bottom track, the center, and the bottom. The smallest of the three measurements is the correct height.

Property owners order sliding glass doors to replace their existing patio doors or after a patio or pool installation. They may even replace their french doors with new sliding glass doors or bifold doors for a unique style. The impressive doors block out harmful sun rays while providing homeowners with a picturesque view of their property’s exterior. Property owners who need accurate measurements or are ready to order a new sliding glass door contact Milgard right now.