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How to Cut Bifold Doors for Custom Fits

Bifold doors offer a common option for closet doors. If the door doesn't fit well into the space, cutting down the door is a way to improve the functionality by creating a custom fit. Cutting from the bottom edge of the door results in the best finished look because it is less noticeable along the floor line. If you're cutting the width of the doors, cut from the outer edges. Even though the cuts aren't highly visible, you want to take your time to create straight cuts on the bifold doors for the best results.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Straight edge
  • Level
  • Utility knife
  • Clamps
  • Circular saw
  • 100-grit sandpaper
  • Sealer
  • Paintbrush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the bifold doors partially to measure how much you need to take from the bottom. If the door rests right on the flooring, measure up 1/4 to 1/2 inch on the door. Mark this point on both doors. If you're cutting from the width, determine how much total you want taken from the doors to make them fit better. Divide that amount by two and mark that amount on the outer edge of each door so they end up the same size.

    • 2

      Remove both doors from the track by opening them completely. Lift the door so the top pivot spring compresses and allows you to slide out the bottom connection. Pull the door out of the top once the bottom is free.

    • 3

      Place the doors on a level work surface. Use a straight edge and level to draw a straight line from one side of each door to the other as a cutting guide.

    • 4

      Score the door along the marked cut line to encourage a smooth cut. Use a straight edge if necessary to keep your cut straight.

    • 5

      Place a separate board on top of the door near the cut to serve as the cutting guide for your saw. Clamp it into place so it doesn't shift as you cut.

    • 6

      Cut slowly along the line to get a straight cut on the door. Cut conservatively so you don't end up with a large gap along the edge. Hold the door in place to test the cut to ensure you don't need to take more off of the bottom.

    • 7

      Sand the edges lightly with a 100-grit sandpaper to make them smooth and slightly rounded. Wipe the dust away from the door. Brush on sealer to protect the cut edges.