Home improvement projects can be costly, so homeowners are always looking for opportunities to handle seemingly smaller jobs on their own, like patio doors installation. There are some patio doors that are sold specifically for the average person to do themselves, plus you can find tips and guides online when you need assistance.
All these factors make the job appear easy, but it is better to leave patio door installation projects to contractors. Here’s why:
The technical considerations
- Patio doors are primarily composed of glass, which needs careful handling.
- If you order your door from a manufacturer, it may not necessarily come with a screen door and the necessary hardware, which means that you may have to order them separately.
- These parts and components should be installed properly for the door assembly to function well.
Whatever design of patio door you have, whether sliding or hinged, the crucial parts must be correctly installed so the door’s performance will not be compromised.
Preparation of the site
Preparing the opening where the door will be installed is just as important as the actual installation.
- You need to take into consideration the material, age, and condition of the surrounding wall to identify whether it is strong enough to support the weight of the door sufficiently. You should not rush the job.
- Before installing, you must inspect the surrounding wall for cracks and fix anything that is likely to cause problems later.
It takes a skilled and experienced set of eyes to get the area ready for installing a sturdy patio door.
Equipment
While you may have a tool box with a couple of items for fixing small problems in your home, you may not necessarily have all the right tools to install a door properly. The contractor will obviously have all the basic tools and equipment to get the job done fast and the right way.
Safety
Many doors are somewhat heavy, and must be carefully held on to until properly installed. If you prematurely let go of any component before it has been set in place, it can lead to problems. Professional contractors are familiar with the installation process, and can easily and properly get the door assembly in place. Furthermore, many contractors provide installation warranties that may be void if you choose to install yourself.
Value
Having a certified contractor install your patio door gives you the most value for your money. Professional installation means that you don’t have to bother yourself with getting all the equipment or procedures right; that your door will be properly fitted for good insulation, and that you don’t have to clean up and dispose the waste after installation.
