At Direct Roofing Systems, we are trade suppliers of aluminium patio doors for residential and commercial properties. We bring decades worth of experience alongside our outstanding customer service.
Aluminium doors have some of the lowest U Values on the market, and support large glazing patterns, up to an impressive 14 sashes. This results in plenty of natural light, ensuring a brighter living space.
In this article, we will explain how to install a patio door, including any preparation that needs to be made.
Preparing the Patio Door For Installation
The first thing that you need to think about when installing the patio door is preparing it. The existing door needs to be carefully removed and put to one side. Next, clean the new door so the sealing material sticks to the reveal, resulting in a faultless finish.
It is important to take measurements to make sure the door fits smoothly and accurately. Installing the patio door is a two person job, so it is best to have an extra helper when putting the door together. Aluminium can damage wooden floors, so it is important to put the doors on soft padded material. The installation time for a door usually takes two to three hours.
Which Seal Do You Choose?
When fitting energy-efficient aluminium sliding patio doors, choosing the right seals is key to performance and longevity. Seals prevent water ingress, drafts, and temperature loss, ensuring the door functions optimally over time. They are straightforward to fit, typically applied around the door frame for a clean, effective finish.
There are three main sealing levels to consider:
Inner Seal: Separates interior and exterior climates, preventing water penetration. For installation, use vapour-resistant foil or acrylic jointing to ensure a reliable barrier.
Middle Seal: Fills the cavity with insulation—usually foam—to maintain warmth long-term. Cotton can be used as an alternative for clients with allergies.
Outer Seal: Provides robust protection against external weather. Applying silicone to the joints helps prevent leaks and reduces future maintenance.
Using the correct seals and installation techniques ensures aluminium patio doors perform efficiently, keeping homes warm, dry, and secure while minimising the risk of damage or repairs.
Installing the Patio Door
Before starting, you’ll need a spirit level and washers to help achieve precise adjustments. Begin by mounting the seals on the frame and inserting the frame into the wall opening. Add the washers to make fine adjustments easier. Once the door is perfectly level, it should fit seamlessly into the opening.
Next, the door must be securely fixed to the building. Drill mounting holes appropriate for the construction type—careful selection of the drill is essential, especially with older buildings, to prevent damage. After drilling, double-check all adjustments to ensure the door is correctly aligned. Finally, use a cordless electric screwdriver to securely fasten the frame in place.
Sealing the Patio Door Gap
Once the door is securely fixed in the wall, it’s time to install the insulation. Apply expanding foam into the gaps between the masonry and the patio door to improve thermal performance. The foam will expand after application, so apply it gradually and carefully. Allow time to see how much it expands before adding more. Once fully expanded, ensure the foam fills the gap completely and adheres properly to the surrounding surfaces for a tight, energy-efficient seal.
Install the Leaf
The seals make the door thermally efficient, and it is nearly complete. This will deliver exceptional thermal efficiency levels, resulting in fantastic heat retention. The last thing that needs to be done is to insert and attach the leaf. Once the hinges are attached, check the door opens and closes properly. If the door squeaks or gets stuck, it needs to be readjusted.
If you have any questions about patio door installation, give us a call on 01623 702611 or take a look at our online survey form out.
