Hi,
Can I install a bi fold door system over this existing door frame?
Hi @Jcroberts001,
That will really depend on the particular bi-fold door system you're planning to use and the clearance requirements of its track and mounting brackets.
In principle, you can certainly install a bi-fold door over an existing doorway like this. However, whether the track can be mounted directly to the wall and still allow the door panels to clear the architrave will depend on the stand-off distance provided by the mounting brackets.
You may find that the track needs to be spaced further away from the wall. One way of achieving this is by installing a timber mounting board above the doorway and over the architrave, allowing the brackets to be fixed further forward so the doors clear the trim as they operate.
You might find that the manufacturer of the system would have further guidance on your setup and what clearances are required. If this were a product you were purchasing through Bunnings, then I could certainly look into it further for you.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
Unfortunately I doing think Bunnings has this style that we want to use.
Would I be better off removing the existing door frame all together or attaching it to the top of the door frame?
I can't find a similar barn-track bi-fold system in our range, so unfortunately, I'm not able to compare the installation requirements directly.
Removing the existing architrave would certainly provide more clearance, but whether that's necessary really comes down to the dimensions and stand-off requirements of the particular system you've selected.
Looking at the product image, it appears that when the doors are folded into the open position, they sit quite close to the wall. That makes me think there is a reasonable chance they could contact the architrave if the track is mounted directly to the wall above the doorway.
Before considering removing the frame, I'd suggest offering the track up to the wall and checking how it sits relative to the architrave. That should quickly tell you whether additional spacing is required or if the existing trim will need to be modified or removed.
If I was to install another piece of timber above the existing architrave, what works you recommend? How would I make this look seamless?
Removing the existing architrave would be my last option I think.
Hello @Jcroberts001
It all depends on the requirements of the barn track you'll be using. Generally speaking, the extra timber support can be placed inside the stud wall. It will require the plasterboard to be removed and the timber support pieces to be screwed in place and then the plasterboard is installed back on. All the wallboard joints affected will need to be plastered back and repaired.
However, in saying this, a great deal of the installation requirements will depend on what the manufacturer has stated in its installation manual. It may require an exposed support piece to create a gap. The size of the bi-fold door is also critical and as it will depend if it lays flat on the door trim. I propose looking at the installation instructions of the track and door system before making any changes in your door assembly.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
