Key Takeaways
- Always measure door frames at multiple points to avoid improper fitting.
- Use the right tools and high-quality hardware to ensure your sliding doors last longer and work smoothly.
- Level the door frame to prevent sticking or swinging issues.
- Insulate around the frame for energy efficiency.
- Panda Windows & Doors provides you with custom-made quality doors all over the US.
Why Installing Doors Properly Matters
- Improved Home Security: Poorly installed doors can be an easy target for break-ins. But with strong frames, secure locks, and proper alignment, you’ll make forced entry much harder.
- Increased Energy Efficiency: Proper door installation creates a tight seal that keeps heat in during winter and cool air in during summer—making your home more comfortable and energy-efficient, while also cutting down on utility bills.
- Improving Functionality and Ease of Use: A correctly installed door opens and closes smoothly without sticking or dragging for better ease of access.
- Aesthetic Appeal: A well-installed door aligns perfectly with the surrounding walls and complements your home’s decor.
- Warranty: Many exterior doors come with a manufacturer's warranty, but these warranties often require professional installation to remain valid.
- Protection Against the Weather: A professional installation keeps the doors securely placed, aligned correctly, and tightly sealed for maximum protection against inclement weather.
Since our founding in 1991, Panda Windows & Doors has specialized in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces. Operating from our manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Our product offerings, which include over 80 high-end options, such as pivot doors, French doors, folding doors, lift & slides, multi-slides, horizontal sliding walls, and operable windows, are available in a range of materials, including aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, solid wood, and aluminum-wood clad.
Our company is widely recognized for its award-winning designs, engineering solutions, and rapid delivery times. We ensure that our customers throughout the U.S. and Caribbean receive their products within 6-10 weeks. Our company is trusted by leading architectural firms and glaziers nationwide, and we stand as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.
Learn About Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today
7 Signs That Your Door Is Not Properly Installed
This is an example of a perfectly installed Panda brand’s lift & slide door.
1. Crooked Door Panels: If the door doesn’t fit snugly into the frame, the panel may be crooked.
2. Creaking Sounds: Noises when operating a newly installed door indicate friction in the hinges or frames.
3. Difficult Operation: The door requires more than a gentle push to open or close.
4. Floor Scratches: The lower edge of the door isn’t parallel to the floor, causing it to scrape and leave marks.
5. Uneven Gaps: When closed, clearances around the door are inconsistent.
6. Increased Energy Bills: A noticeable increase in energy consumption after door replacement.
7. Missing Screws in Hinges: Can cause the door to bend or sag over time.
7 Door Installation Mistakes And Their Solutions
1. Improper Measuring
- Mistake: Inaccurate measurements of the door opening, which leads to ordering doors with incorrect dimensions or an improperly fitted door that allows drafts and water to enter.
- Solution: Measure the door frame accurately at multiple points for height and width to note any irregularities. Always measure the door frame and not the existing door.
2. Inadequate Insulation
- Mistake: Installing a door without proper insulation.
- Solution: Choose NFRC-tested doors from Panda Windows & Doors. This rating gives you an idea of its energy performance. In addition to that, you can also install weatherstripping to seal gaps between the door and the frame.
3. Poor Sealing
- Mistake: Improper sealing and caulking - leading to gaps letting in moisture and drafts.
- Solution: Caulk and seal the exterior door properly using expert help to keep water and drafts out of the home.
4. Wrong Hardware
- Mistake: Using low-quality locks, hinges, and screws.
- Solution: Use high-quality locks, hinges, and screws suitable for outdoor use to withstand harsh weather conditions.
5. Hinge Installation Errors
- Mistake: Fastening hinges with improperly sized screws or not lining the hinges up vertically.
- Solution: Use 3.5 inch screws for hinges. Next, line up the hinges vertically and make sure that their knuckle cutouts sit even against the face of the door.
6. Over-Shimming
- Mistake: Inserting more shims than needed, which causes the door slab's edge (or its hinges) to press against the jamb before the door can close.
- Solution: Open and close the door while inserting shims so that it does not pop open on its own.
7. Incorrect Orientation
- Mistake: Installing a door upside down, especially with paneled doors.
- Solution: Check the door's orientation before installation, paying particular attention to paneled designs and pre-drilled hardware holes. Larger panels should be at the bottom.
Choose Panda Windows & Doors For Your Custom Door Designs
Panda Windows & Doors’ custom designs are a trusted choice for everything from homes to commercial spaces.
At Panda Windows & Doors, we specialize in custom luxury windows and doors proudly made right here in America. We cater to both residential and commercial clients, delivering designs that are award-winning and engineered to tackle even the most complex projects.
Our commitment is to transform any space into your perfect retreat with windows and doors that will become cherished focal points.
Why Choose Us
1. Custom Focus: We focus on creating custom luxury windows and doors to meet your requirements.
2. Quality Materials: We use only the finest hardware from leading manufacturers globally.
3. Extensive Product Line: We have 85 state-of-the-art windows and doors with unlimited customization.
4. Eco-Friendly Options: We have energy-efficient door products, so you can support LEED® and Title 24 compliance.
5. Quality Control: We employ an on-site Test Wall to provide the highest quality control.
Reach out to us to learn more about our products and get a free quote.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I measure for a new door installation?
Start by measuring the width of the door frame at three points: the top, middle, and bottom. Then, measure the height on both sides and the center. Use the smallest measurements so the door will fit snugly.
What are the signs my door swing direction is incorrect?
These include difficulty in opening or closing the door, blocking of light switches or outlets, and interference with furniture placement.
Read this guide to learn more.
Which tools are necessary for installing a door?
Essential tools for door installation include a power drill, screwdriver, chisel, level, and measuring tape.
How can I tell if my door frame is properly level?
Use a spirit level to check if the frame is straight—place it along the top and sides. If the bubble’s centered, you’re good. If not, add shims until everything lines up.
What material options does Panda Windows & Doors provide?
We have products in aluminum, steel, stainless steel, architectural bronze, and wood. Click here to get started.
