How to Build a Bi-Fold Frame

Bifold doors are a household fixture, securing the openings of closets, laundry nooks, water heaters and a variety of other small spaces. These doors serve a functional purpose of sealing off areas of the home from vision but not requiring the opening space of larger swinging doors due to their small size when opened. These bifold doors require a sliding track positioned on the top and bottom frame. When installing these doors in areas that have not previously had doors, it is often necessary to build a wooden frame around the space to facilitate the installation of the tracks and build up the doorway to fit the bifold doors properly.

Tape measure
1-by-2 boards
Saw
Sandpaper, fine-grit
Drill
Wood drill bits
Wood screws, 3-inch
Paint or stain
Brush
Sealant
2-inch metal L-brackets

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the width of the door opening from side to side. Transfer this measurement to two, 1-by-2 boards. Cut the boards at this position using a saw. Set the boards within the frame to determine if the fit is correct and make any adjustments to make it so.
- 2
  Hold these two boards in place at the top and bottom of the frame with the help of an assistant. Measure the distance between the two boards and transfer this measurement to two additional 1-by-2 boards. Cut out these side boards.
- 3
  Sand the edges and surfaces of these four boards with fine-grit sandpaper. Wipe down the boards.
- 4
  Apply stain or paint to the four frame boards using a brush in smooth, even strokes that follow the wood grain. Allow the first light coat to dry for two hours, then apply another coat. Repeat this process until the overall appearance of the frame boards is the right shade. Let the paint or stain dry for three hours and apply two coats of sealant using the same method. Let the boards dry overnight.
- 5
  Position the top and bottom board in place with the help of an assistant. Slide the side boards in between them so that they help support the top board.
- 6
  Drill a hole every 12 inches through these frame boards and into the doorway. Set a 3-inch wood screw within each hole and tighten it completely until the door frame is securely fastened to the doorway.
- 7
  Position the included tracks of the bifold doors against the top and bottom of the frame. Drill out each of the attachment holes and slide the included screws into these holes. Attach the tracks in place with the included screws.
- 8
  Set the doors in place and adjust the fit until they open and close smoothly.

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