Methods for Hanging Multiple Doors

Track Systems

• One of the more common methods for hanging multiple doors is to use a track system above and below the doors. These work for multi-fold door systems where two or more doors fold like an accordion when opened and closed. The doors sit in these tracks and slide open and closed, rather than opening inward and outward like traditional doors do.

French Doors

• French doors are another popular option that many people use to hang doors in larger openings. French doors are simply two doors that hinge from the outside and latch together when closed. French doors do not typically have a dividing frame between them. Instead, the doors meet in the middle when closed. One door will typically have the male hardware and the other the female hardware so the two can latch together. These doors can be fairly easy to hang, so long as you have patience and you measure carefully from the beginning. Getting both doors to hang evenly and meet in the middle is the most significant difficulty in hanging these doors.

Shimming

• Regardless of the number and style of doors you're installing, one method you can use to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible is to "shim" before installing the door. The traditional method of door installation involves waiting until the frame is in place, then holding the door in place while trying to shim and attach the hinges. The Family Handyman suggests marking the drywall and installing the door shims before adding the frame. If you carefully measure where the hinges will go and mark these in advance, you can eliminate half of the hassle of hanging the door by putting the shims in early.

Troubleshooting

• Hanging multiple doors can be frustrating, especially if you get to the end of the project only to find that the doors don't open all the way. Many of the problems that come with installing doors are related to issues with the floor. Oftentimes, the floor is off level; this can cause the doors to get stuck without being able to close properly. Measuring and testing each door along the way, rather than waiting until you finish, can help you avoid frustration and additional work.