Convert Bifold Doors to French Doors in 7 Simple Steps

If you want to turn your bifold door into something more stylish, converting them to French doors can be a fantastic upgrade. French doors add a touch of elegance and can make your space look brighter and more open. Keep reading to see how you can convert bifold doors to french doors in 7 simple steps.

Tools to Convert Bifold Doors to French Doors

How to Convert Bifold Doors to French Doors?

It’s not too hard to convert bifold doors to French doors. You can actually have fun with the project if you follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Remove the Bifold Doors

You need to take your bifold patio doors in Los Angeles off their tracks. Pick up a screwdriver and remove the screws that hold the doors in place. Carefully lift the doors off the track system. Don’t rush this part, as you’ll need to free the doors up for the next steps.

Step 2: Attach Mending Braces to the Doors

Bifold doors are meant to fold, but French doors swing open. To convert bifold doors to french doors, you need to stop the door from folding. You can do this by attaching mending braces to the back of each door. These braces will keep the doors flat and allow them to open just like regular doors. Make sure to line them up evenly for smooth swinging.

Step 3: Install Magnetic Catches

Now, let’s make sure your indoor /outdoor French doors stay shut when you need them to. Magnetic catches are simple but work really well for keeping doors tightly closed. Install the catches on the doors and the metal plates on the door frame. This will keep the doors from swinging open when you don’t want them to, and they’ll still be easy to open when needed.

Step 4: Add Trim Around the Edges

Here’s the fun part! You’ll want to add some trim around the edges of your doors to give them that polished French door look. Cut 1 1/2 inch trim pieces to size and glue them onto the door edges. To convert bifold doors to french doors securely in Los Angeles, you can also nail them in place for extra security. This step will make your doors look way more finished and professional.

Step 5: Apply Shiplap for Added Style

If you add more character when you convert bifold doors to French doors, adding a shiplap is a great idea. Cut some thin wood (or plywood) into strips and attach them to the doors with wood glue. Use a brad nailer to make sure they’re held in place. This adds texture to the doors and gives them a more unique, rustic feel. It’s a small step, but it can make a huge difference in how they look.

Step 6: Sand, Prime, and Paint

Once the trim and shiplap are in place, it’s time to make your doors look brand new. Start by sanding any rough edges to make them smooth. Then, apply a coat of primer to help the paint stick better. After the primer dries, paint the doors with your choice of color. Choose a color that matches your room’s decor. This will help the doors blend in perfectly with your home’s style.

Step 7: Reinstall the Doors

Finally, after the paint is dry, it’s time to put the doors back in place. Reattach the hinges to the door frame to make sure everything is aligned properly. Open and close the interior or exterior French doors patio to make sure they swing smoothly. If they don’t line up exactly right, adjust the magnetic catches or the hinges until everything works perfectly.

Tips for Converting Bifold Doors to French Doors

Here are a few helpful tips to make the job easier:

• Always double-check your measurements to make sure the doors fit correctly before cutting anything.
• Make sure you’re using good quality wood and hardware to ensure the doors last.
• Choose trim and paint that match the rest of your room. The goal is to make the French doors look like they belong in space.
• If you’re unsure about any of the steps, don’t be afraid to ask a professional for advice. It’s better to use replacement bifold patio door services than to make a mistake!

Best Bifold Doors and French Doors in Los Angeles, CA

If you live in Los Angeles and want to skip the DIY process, Teza Doors and Windows is here to help! We sell and install both bifold and French doors, and we’ll make sure they fit your style perfectly. Get in touch with us for a free estimate and professional installation. Contact us or give us a call at (818) 818-6001 for a bifold door makeover. Let us help you make your dream door a reality.

Let’s Bottom Line It

You can convert bifold doors to French doors in simple steps! You just need to buy a bi-fold to French door conversion kit and follow the steps above. You will have beautiful French doors in no time.

FAQs