How to Guide

• Proper installation is essential for keeping patio doors operating
smoothly. If a patio door fails to operate properly, an inspection is
necessary to determine if it was installed correctly.
• A contractor or installer can assist in determining the cause of a patio
door being “out of specication” and possibly correct it. Patio door
problems due to improper installation are usually not covered by the
manufacturer’s warranty. For installation instructions, contact us or
yoursupplier.
• The specications and measurements referenced in this guide are
taken from ASTM E2112 Standard Practice for Installation of Exterior
Windows, Doors and Skylights.
Note: These instructions do not address inspection for proper
“water tightness” or ashing. A “water tight” inspection requires
removal of the exterior siding around the patio door. Seek
professional assistance regarding this issue.
Level Indicator
Accurate measurements are essential in determining level and plumb.
Most carpenters' levels have several bubble level indicators, making it
possible to measure all parts of the patio door.
Examine the horizontal indicator. If the bubble is centered between the
lines of the indicator, it is level.
If the bubble is not exactly centered, measure how far “out of level” or
“out of plumb” by maneuvering the end of the level until the bubble
is exactly centered. Measure the farthest gap between the level and
the surface. On a 2' level, the gap must not exceed 1/16", or on a 4'
level (or longer), the gap must not exceed 1/8", or the surface is out of
level/plumb.
Frame Twists
Attach two pieces of string to
frame/panel, corner to corner.
If there is a gap between
strings at center point larger
than 1/8" for patio doors up
to 4' wide or high, or 3/16"
for patio doors larger than
4' wide or high, the frame is
not at. Repeat by switching
strings and re-measuring.
Proper Shimming
Measure width of frame at
top, center, and bottom. If any
two measurements differ more
than 1/16", the frame is over
or under shimmed. Repeat
process and measure height
offrame.
Level and Plumb
For plumb, place level against
each side jamb or use a plumb
bob. For level, place level
against head jamb and sill.
Square
Measure frame/panel from top
left to bottom right corner and
from top right to bottom left
corner. If measurements differ
by 1/8" for patio doors up
to 20 sq. ft. or 1/4" for patio
doors larger than 20 sq.ft.,
unit is out-of-square.
Side jamb
Head jamb
Head jamb
Measure
here
Product Guide
Wood Patio Doors (JPG012)
05/19
17
PROPER PATIO DOOR INSTALLATION