French doors are a great way to make your home look beautiful and feel open. These doors usually have large glass panels and are placed between rooms or between indoor and outdoor spaces like balconies, gardens, or patios. They let in a lot of natural light and make small spaces look bigger.
But if not installed properly, French doors can cause many problems. A bad installation can lead to water leaks, noise, security issues, or the door not working smoothly. In some cases, correcting mistakes can also be costly.
Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring someone, it’s essential to know what to avoid. In this post, we’ll explain the most common French door installation mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Wrong Measurements
Before you install a French door, the first step is to measure the space properly. Many people make the mistake of guessing the size or using rough numbers. This leads to big problems later.
If the door is too big, it won’t fit. If it’s too small, there will be gaps that allow wind, water, and noise to enter.
What to do:
Use a proper measuring tape or a laser tool to measure the width, height, and depth of the doorway. Do it two or three times to be sure. Write it down carefully. If you’re not sure, ask a professional to measure it for you.
2. Poor Weatherproofing
French doors are often used as entryways to the outside. So, it’s important to keep rain, wind, and dust out. Many people forget to seal the sides and bottom of the door properly.
This can make your room colder in winter or hotter in summer. It also increases your electricity bill.
What to do:
Use high-quality weatherstrips, silicone sealant, or foam around the door edges. Seal every small gap. Follow the instructions from the door company. After installation, check for any air or water leaks. Choosing manufacturers like TOSTEM, which use EPDM rubber gaskets instead of woolpile, and seal the sides with 5–10mm silicone, along with proper drainage systems and non-return valves (NRVs), can significantly improve weatherproofing.
3. Bad Door Alignment
If your door is not installed straight, it won’t open or close properly. It may swing open on its own, make noise, or leave a gap when shut.
Over time, this can damage the door hinges and locks, making the door unsafe.
What to do:
Use tools like a level and shims (thin pieces of wood or plastic) to keep the door straight during installation. Open and close the door a few times to ensure it works properly before making a permanent fix.
4. Damaging the Door While Handling
French doors, especially those with large glass panels, require careful handling. Dropping the door or hitting it against a wall can cause scratches, dents, or even broken glass.
What to do:
Always hold the door by the frame, not the glass. Use gloves and carry it gently with another person if it’s heavy. Keep it on a flat, soft surface before installation.
5. Misplaced or Loose Hinges
Hinges are the small metal parts that help the door swing open or shut. If they are not fixed in the right place or not screwed tightly, the door may sag or feel loose.
What to do:
Mark the hinge position carefully. Use the screws provided and tighten them properly. If needed, drill small holes before putting the screws to avoid cracking the frame. Using good quality doors like those offered by TOSTEM can further help maintain the sturdiness and keep the door intact for decades.
6. Skipping the Finishing Touch
After fixing the door, many people forget to do the final touches. If the door is not painted or sealed properly, it may get damaged by water or sunlight. This shortens the door’s lifespan.
What to do:
Use a good primer and paint or polish, especially for wooden parts. Make sure the door edges and corners are protected. Choose finishes that are waterproof and sun-resistant.
7. Using the Wrong Tools
Sometimes, people use tools that are not suited for the job such as using the wrong type of screw or drill. This can damage the door or frame, making the door unstable.
What to do:
Use the correct tools and materials recommended in the door instruction manual. If you don’t have the tools, it’s better to hire someone who does.
8. Not Testing the Door After Installation
Some people finish the job without checking if everything is working. This means small problems go unnoticed and get worse over time.
What to do:
After installation, open and close the door several times to ensure it operates smoothly. Check the locks, alignment, and weather sealing. Fix any issues right away.
9. Not Reading the Instruction Manual
Every brand or company may have different instructions for installing their doors. Failing to follow the manual can lead to mistakes.
What to do:
Always read the guide that comes with the door. Follow each step carefully. If anything is unclear, please refer to a video or contact our customer support.
10. Not Calling a Professional When Needed
French door installation may look simple, but it’s not always easy, especially if the walls or floors are uneven. Trying to do everything on your own may lead to bigger problems.
What to do:
If you’re unsure, call a trained professional. Some companies even provide installation support or services, making your job easier.
Why Material Matters?
Apart from installation, the material of the door also plays a significant role in determining its longevity and ease of maintenance.
Aluminium French doors are popular today because:
- They are strong but light.
- They do not rust.
- They can handle bad weather.
- They are easy to clean.
These doors also come in many colour options, like black, white, and wooden tones.
Final Thoughts`
Installing a French door or French windows can make your home look stylish and feel more open. However, to enjoy all these benefits, you must avoid common mistakes during installation.
When planning to purchase a French door, select one that is durable, easy to maintain, and has been tested for optimal performance. Look for products that are weather-resistant, secure, and available in many colours.
Choosing the right door and installing it correctly will give you peace of mind and a beautiful home for years to come.
Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for general informational purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the content or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained herein for any purpose.
