Thinking of installing bi-fold doors? Why not DIY!

Hume Doors & Timber offers bi-fold doors in a variety of sizes and styles, and they are quiet, smooth-moving and space-saving. We’ve found that a lot of people fear this product is too difficult to install – but it’s not!

All bi-folds are supplied in reversible two door sets, hinged together to suit normal openings. Tracks and fittings are included, plus these instructions. We’ve also put together this blog to walk you through the process in case the instructions are too technical.

To start, you’ll need a tape measure, hammer, two chisels, a Phillips head screwdriver, combination square, cordless drill, drill bits, a drive bit, spirit level, pinchers, handsaw, builders’ rule, step ladder, packers, assorted screws/nails, a pencil and PPE.

Once you’ve assembled your tools, you should double-check your door has come with all the included materials. These are, spanner, jamb bracket and bottom pivot, two top pivot guides, timber knob and screw, assorted screws, head track and trims and bi-fold leaves.

Please note, you’ll also have to purchase a flat jamb separately for this project. Then you can get started!

If you’re replacing an existing door, you’ll need to remove the old one and you can learn how here. Once you’ve removed the old door and its hinges and trim, or if your doorway is new, you can begin measuring to ensure your new flat jamb will fit.

Using a handsaw, cut the flat jamb to a slightly smaller size than your doorway so the frame can be packed square. Pre-drill pilot holes and insert screws to assemble the flat jamb and place it in the opening.

Pre-drill holes in your flat jamb and pack between it and the frame. Fit using a nail and hammer before checking your work is level. Ensure your measurements fit your new Hume door.

Mark the centre of the jamb near the top corner and along the top panel, then add a mark to the centre of the bottom side panel (whichever side you want the door to be attached to). Ensure the head track is cut to fit the top panel before fastening it there with your drill. Use the same drill to fix the bottom jamb bracket to the floor and doorway.

Remove transport blocks from the bi-fold doors, use the pinchers to pull out the attached nails, then seal the top and bottom edges of the product. Insert the bottom pivots, followed by both top pivots (the holes should be pre-drilled for your convenience).  By loosening the adjusting screw, move the bottom jamb break and fix in the correct position. Repeat for the top pivot socket. Now it’s time to insert the door!

Use the nut on the bottom pivot to adjust the height and place in the bottom bracket (ensuring you’re holding the two sections of the door together). Engage the top pivot and slot it into the top bracket. Fit the other top pivot into the head track. Slide open and shut to ensure you’ve installed it correctly.

Begin fitting architraves. Starting with the top, mark, cut and fit your trims. Ensure installation on the opposite side of the hinges. Finally, follow your instructions to ensure you correctly fit your door handle and you’re all done.

Ta-da! For such a sophisticated product, installation is quite simple. Even novice DIYers will find this process pain-free.

Check out this handy video for further guidance.

Or  you can always give us a call!