Are you converting your garage to a finished space and have been thinking of a few ideas? The first step of a garage conversion is to remove the garage door and replace it with something homier. In this case, French doors are the best option. But the next question is, can you replace garage door with French doors?
Due to the existing garage door structure, the replacement will be super easy. However, before doing so, you will have to take permission from authorities. Also, some structural change may be required.
Continue reading this guide to know how to go about the process.
Can You Replace Garage Door With French Doors?
The straightforward answer is YES.
Garage door replacement may become necessary for several reasons. You may want to renovate your garage or have a garage door opener problem.
But before replacing it, you need to follow a few simple steps.
Permission from Local Planning Authority
Taking permission from your local planning and building authority is a must when replacing your garage door with French doors.
You have to fill out an application for this purpose. After submitting your application, the authority will send an inspector to ensure you can make the change.
Blueprint Creation
Once the authority approves your application, the next step is to provide a detailed plan and drawing of the new doors.
In this case, take help from a professional. Otherwise, you can make a mistake in drawing up a precise blueprint.
Insulating Wall
An insulating wall can be crucial if your garage is a part of your home. Some electrical work also needs to be done. Also, repainting may be necessary if the condition of the wall is terrible.
Plumbing
This step is only sometimes necessary. Depending on your usage, consider calling a plumber for plumbing tasks.
How to Replace Garage Door With French Doors? Step-by-Step
Changing garage door with French doors is a time-consuming project. Also, taking assistance from a few people will be necessary for all the moving.
Required Tools:
- French door
- Power drill
- Level
- Finish nail (10d)
- Miter saw
- Adhesive
- Studs
- Foam Sheets
- 4X4 header
Step 01: Uninstall the garage door motor. Also, the garage door is pulled and lowered by its chain and tracks; uninstall them as well.
Step 02: Use a screwdriver to unscrew each garage door panel to disassemble it. Start from the top and finish way down to the bottom panels.
Step 03: In this step, get the door frame dimensions. For this, measure the garage opening and new French door.
All you need to do is measure the garage opening and French door length. Next, subtract the 2 lengths and divide them by 1/2 to get the distance.
Remember to measure the distance from both sides of the door frame. Finally, use chalk to mark the floor of the French door installation place.
Step 04: It is time to make the door’s frame. Use the measurements you got in the earlier steps and make the studs, bottom plate, and still plate.
Get the power drill and use it to anchor the still plate wall to the floor.
Step 05: Cut some top plate parts using a miter saw. This will provide enough space to install the studs on the door’s both sides.
Step 06: The studs must be installed between the top and still plates. Make sure they are well-leveled. In this situation, use a spirit level to check the level. Adjust if required.
Another important note is the height of the door frame must be the same on both sides. This will help you avoid problems when installing the French door.
Step 07: Holding the studs in place is important. For this purpose, a 3” screw or nail will come in handy. Prehung French doors come with screws. Check your pack. If screws are unavailable, use shims.
Step 08: Attach the pre-measured and cut 4X4 header on top of the door frame. If you have a problem determining the installation place of the header, fasten the door to the frame for the time being. If required, use 3” nails or screws for this purpose.
Step 09: Is insulation needed in your garage? In this situation, the foam sheets must be added beside the header or to the still plates. This way, the moisture level in your garage will remain under control. Make sure that the foam sheets are appropriately installed.
Step 10: Apply the necessary amount of sealant and adhesive at the bottom of the frame.
Step 11: Your new French door should have an installation manual. Using appropriate screws, hinges, and other hardware is mandatory. Otherwise, the installation process will be challenging.
Step 12: Check whether it works perfectly after installing the French door.
Repeat the earlier steps and adjust everything properly if there are problems opening and closing the door.
Step 13: Now, the studs need to be attached to the header and the top plate. As a result, the French door will stay in one place.
Step 14: Hiding the place where the new French door and garage opening meeting will give an excellent look to the renovation. A trimmed baseboard will be a good option to hide the place.
FAQ
How much do you have to spend on a French door?
The set of a nice French door cost $400 – $500. However, if you want to save a few bucks, look for salvage, sales, and clearance opportunities.
What material is used to make the frames of French doors?
The most common materials used to make French doors frame aluminum, steel, and fiberglass.
Can I install French doors by replacing the garage door without permission?
Well, you will be rewarded for not taking permission from your local planning and building authorities. But you will face complications if you try to sell your home. So, it is always best to get permission before making any changes or improvements in your home.
Final Words
In a nutshell, you can easily replace garage doors with French doors. The challenging part is getting permission from the local authority. In addition, if the installation process requires any adjustments for a perfect fit.
French doors come with their own set of benefits and drawbacks. For this reason, it is significantly essential to consult a garage professional before deciding on the renovation idea.
Follow the steps mentioned earlier carefully and attentively to swap out garage doors with French doors. Hopefully, you will complete the French door installation process in no time.
