If the door is not framed correctly the door will not stay in place.
How to frame a header for a sliding glass door.
When in doubt build a double 2 12 header sandwich like we explain next.
For instance in the basement remodel all the doors have simple 2 4 framing around them.
In all but the most bizarre situations they ll easily carry the weight for 4 ft.
Between 4 and 5 feet the header should be built 2 inches wide and 8 inches long while a larger opening needs a header that is 2 by 12.
When in doubt use 2 by 12 inch headers.
Measure the width of your door frame.
Wide a common patio door width.
Be sure to check code requirements prior to framing.
Cut the door header.
You can access a free copy of the 2012 international building code here.
A 36 door has a rough opening width of 38 so your header is cut at 41.
To make the door header the top of the door frame cut two 2x4s to the same length as the width of the original opening and nail them securely together.
Most door frames that are 4 feet wide or less require a 2 by 6 header.
The steps to frame a sliding door and the tools required for the job are listed below.
Wide window and door openings and in most situations be code compliant for openings up to 6 ft.
This is the actual thickness of a 2x4.
Also be aware double or triple jack studs may be required based on the opening width and the load the header carries.
When installing a sliding door the frame is going to require the most attention.