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Real Homes March 2010

• Date: 26th January 2010
• Category: Features

<p>Charlie Sharman says: 'Installing folding-sliding doors is not difficult. Some percision is necessary, though, so if your attitude is "that will do", you are probably not the right person to fit them. Some adjustment is often necessary on the hinges and the wheels, but the nature of the folding mechanism means that only one set of hinges are attached to the outer frame. If this frame is not level, then the problem is compounded over the whole opening.<br />
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'The same care must be applied to fitting the bottom track, as contact between the weatherproofing gasket - the seal between door track that keeps moisture out - and the track is only a few milimetres. This is especially true if you are fitting a flush threshold, where the internal and external floors are level. Drainage is also important when using a flush threshold; if water gets into the bottom track, it must be able to escape. Usually, this is done with a concealed drain below the external floor finishes; on more expensive doors, however, the water ingress is minimal and an area for it to soak away is all you need.<br />
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'Before fitting folding-sliding doors, ensure the site is properly prepared. Decisions about drainage and floor levels are made at the start of an extension and the right decision will depend on the section sizes of the frames. All reputable suppliers will provide drawings of all the adjoining parts and a proposal for any drainage required. Delivery comes, on average, six to eight weeks from placing the order, so assume eight and plan ahead - the ideal installation time is after all external work has been finished and the internal screeds laid. Preferably, the doors should not be fitted until all builders' traffic through the opening has taken place. </p>

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