How to Install a Pella Sliding Patio Door
Pella sliding patio doors allow homeowners to enjoy an unobstructed view of the outdoors. You can have the door installed by a professional or do it yourself. The task is straightforward and suitable for those with a little experience in do-it-yourself home repair or construction.
Prepare the Door
Step 1
Inspect the rough opening. Place a level on the top, bottom and sides of the opening to make sure it's level and plumb.
Step 2
Check that the door is the correct size. Measure from side to side at the top, center and bottom of the opening with a tape measure. Measure the rough opening from top to bottom on the left and right side, and in the center of the opening. The opening should be 1/2-inch larger than the door.
Step 3
Remove the door from its packaging. Slide the movable panel, and remove the spacers at the top and bottom of the panel. Lift the vent panel out of the lower track, and tilt the bottom away from the fame to remove it.
Step 4
Place the installation clips in the door frame jamb 6 inches from each end and less than 16 inches in the center. Slide the clips into the head groove on the door frame.
Set and Fasten the Door
Step 1
Apply 3/8-inch beads of sealant on the bottom of the rough opening. Place the beads of sealant 1-1/8 inches, 1-7/8 inches and 4-1/2 inches from the exterior of the rough opening.
Step 2
Insert the door in the opening. Have someone assist in performing this step. Lift the door, and place the bottom in the opening. Do not slide the bottom of the door into place. Tilt the door to place it into position at the top.
Step 3
Center the door and insert 1-1/4-inch concrete screws into the clips at the top of the frame. Insert the screw into the rough opening with an electric drill and a screwdriver bit to secure the door. Check the door with a level. Place shims between the door and the opening if needed. Do not place shims at the top of the door.
Step 4
Inspect the interior reveal. Measure the distance between the door facing and the interior wall at several locations. Insert 1-1/4-inch concrete screws through the holes in the clips and into the rough opening to secure the door.
Step 5
Drill pilot holes in the sill support through the predrilled holes. Use a 9/64-inch drill bit for aluminum sill supports and a 1/8-inch drill bit for wood blocking. Position the roller retainers and apply sealant to the drilled holes. Insert the included screws and tighten.
Step 6
Reinstall the vent panel. Tilt the top portion of the panel into the door frame, and insert it into the track. Move the panel so it's vertical within the frame, and insert the bottom of the panel into the track. Install the handles, bumpers and panel retainers according to the included manufacturer’s instructions.
Seal the Door
Step 1
Insert closed cell foam backer rods into the spaces around the exterior of the door. Apply sealant to the perimeter. Shape as needed, and remove any excess.
Step 2
Insert the nozzle of a low pressure polyurethane window and door insulating foam applicator into the space between the door and the interior wall. Apply a 1-inch bead of sealant. Allow it to cure for 12 to 24 hours before proceeding.
Step 3
Inspect the operation of the door. Remove the sealant with a serrated knife is adjustments are required. Adjust the shims and reapply the sealant.
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