When it comes to home renovation or improvement projects, changing the doors is often a popular option for updating the look and functionality of a room.
One question that may arise during this process is whether two single doors can be used to make a double door.
The answer is yes; using two single doors to create a double door is possible, but it requires some modifications to ensure a proper fit and functionality.
This article will discuss the steps involved in using two single doors to make a double door and some important considerations to remember before undertaking this project.
Although two single doors can be converted into a double one, it may not be as easy as you think. To ensure accuracy, certain technical aspects of the project will need the expertise of a skilled carpenter.
Things To Know About Converting Two Single Doors Into A Double Door
- To make this project successful, it is essential to ensure both sides of the door frame are equal. This makes it imperative to expand the frame of the door equally.
- Moreover, the rough opening must be extended to align the interior and exterior walls symmetrically.
- It is very important to have accurate measurements of the single doors in order to do this successfully. Furthermore, two identical doors must be installed.
- Think about the size of the double door you want. You should ensure the double doors fit your space smoothly without taking up too much space.
- In addition to considering the final design and look you want, you should look at pictures online to get an idea of the type of design you want.
- Performing this task all by yourself is not impossible. When you don’t have the expertise in the area, you should hire a professional contractor.
- Moving doors can be time-consuming and difficult because the doors are quite heavy. Therefore, you can rest assured that this task is in the hands of a professional.
- The professional will usually create a rough opening behind the double door and slide in the frame. Once the doors have been mounted on the hinges and adjusted so they open and close smoothly, they will be installed.
How To Use Two Single Doors To Make A Double Door?
As we mentioned earlier, you can do this yourself as a DIY project. Nevertheless, it will be easier for you if you already know how doors work. To follow these instructions, follow these steps:
- Choose two doors that are as close to each other as possible in size. Don’t just measure one half of the door pair, but both of the doors as well.
- The rebate edges of the doors should overlap where they meet so they can overlap. In addition, they sit more level when closed if this is done.
- In this case, it works as a pair maker since it is a lipped edge. You should keep in mind that a rebate will add about 12mm to the door’s thickness.
- Raising the edge of the rebate is easy. The timber on your door should match your chosen clean, straight timber type.
- You should choose timber that is 17mm x 12mm thick if you have doors that have a thickness of 35mm.
- A 20mm x 12mm thick timber should be used if the doors are 40mm thick. Once the timber is cut to the correct height, it might need to be drilled.
- Decide what direction you want to open the first leading door. Draw a pencil line on the door edge where you want to add another rebate.
- Next, lay the rebate timber flat and apply thin lines of wood glue along its length. Position the rebate on the edge of the door while it is standing.
- The rebate timber can be tapped into with small nails (around 30mm). They must be angled away from the door front to prevent accidents.
- To install rebated timber, use a nail punch to tap the pins or nails below the surface. The pinholes should also be filled in with a similar timber filler and sanded smoothly.
- It will be easier to work on when it is still soft, and the finished product will be neater. Repeat the same steps on the other door to form a pair of doors.
Conclusion
It will be essential that you know a lot about woodworking, as well as have a clear vision of what you want your finished pair to look like.
A store will have pre-hung single doors and double doors for you to see. Check for gaps around door hinges and door frames. Also, you must pay attention to the overlapping of the top jamb and the two side jambs.
