How to Install a Bath Tub Door

Measure the height and width of the opening around the tub. Jot these dimensions down and use them as guides when you buy the replacement door enclosure.

Measure the length of the door's threshold and cut the bottom tub's track to length with a hacksaw. Smooth the aluminum track's end with a file. Use a hand vacuum to remove all metal filings so they will not scratch the bathroom floor or bathtub base.

Set the base track on the tub's threshold and use a tape measure to check whether the track is centered. Mark the threshold alongside the edge of the track near each end with a pencil. This will allow you to know where to reposition the door on the tub if sliding occurs during installation.

Position the wall jambs. Hold the jamb up against the wall near the shower opening so that the lower parts sit into the base track. Mark where the jamb's screw holes are located with a marker or pencil. Remove the jamb.

Drill holes on every mark with a 3/16-inch-diameter masonry drill bit. Use a plastic mallet to tap on the screws. Place the jamb back up against the wall and drive a 1½-inch stainless-steel pan-head screw into each hole to secure the jamb in place.

Install the bottom track guides, which will sit in the bottom track and secure the doors' edges in place. Then, divide the space between the walls into fourths, measuring a fourth of the way down from each end. Install the guides at those points.

Caulk and install the bottom track. Apply silicone caulk down each side of the track's underside. From the previous line that you drew as a guide, put the track in place and press down. Wipe off excess caulk with damp paper towel.

Set the header. Measure the header to accurately fit across the length of the bath/shower. Slip the header over the top of the hinge jamb and side panel. Drill a 7/32-inch pilot hole through the inside face of the header--one at each end--and into the corresponding jamb. Drive a ½-inch screw into each hole to secure the header to the side walls.

Replace the magnetic strike rail on the stationary panel's edge. Adjust it so that the magnetic strips on the door and rail create a watertight seal when the door closes. Screw the strike rail into the holes of the strike jamb/stationary panel with ½-inch screws.

Place the door inside the side jamb and in the bottom track. You may need to stand on the inside of the bath/shower to securely fit the door inside the jamb and track. Swing door outward to see if it is dragging. Remove the door and loosen its roller, moving it toward the bottom of the slot. Re-fasten the rollers closer to the top of the door's slot if it sits too high.