Choose the site for your new sliding glass doors. This will likely be a wall that connects with your patio or somewhere there is an existing door that you simply want to replace with sliding glass doors. Whatever the case, inspect the wall from both sides to be sure there will be no unforeseen problems. Also check from the basement and attic, where applicable, to see if there are any hidden heating ducts or other problems. It is best to know these things before you begin. Also try to avoid electrical and plumbing fixtures or you can cause yourself more problems than you solve by installing sliding glass doors yourself.

You should mark out the dimensions for the sliding glass doors on the wall. Allow an extra four inches on each side and seven inches on top. This will allow some extra space for shims, double jack studs, a header, all the things that will make the sliding glass doors secure. Turn off the electricity at your fuse box to prevent any unexpected shocks. This is also a good time to put down dropcloths to avoid unnecessary mess. After this is done you’re ready to take down the old wall. Call in a professional if you’re unsure about the electrical or plumbing.

Before you remove the wall studs be sure to brace the area you’re working on. You don’t want the wall to collapse before you put in the sliding glass doors. Once the area is clear make new full-length studs to fit against the outside of your opening and screw them into place. Repeat this process with the width of the opening, using two length of 2×6. Fit this against the bottom of the sliding glass door’s frame.

Now assemble and place the sliding glass doors to the manufacturer’s directions. You may need to remove some carpeting once its set into place, so do so before permanently fixing it into place. Run some thick strips of caulk along the area covered by the sliding glass door’s threshold. Put the unit back in place. Use a level to shim the sliding glass doors into place along all sides and the tops. Screw in the sliding glass doors to the manufacturer’s direction but not too tightly or you can warp the frame. After installing sliding glass doors you can now patch the walls and apply the trim for a most professional look.