How to install sliding doors for alfresco with sloping aggregate concrete floor?

[talexpat]

Hi there,

I’m seeking advice regarding the installation of aluminum sliding doors in my alfresco area and wondering if it’s DIY-friendly or if professional installation is the better option.

A few challenges I’ve encountered so far:

• Uneven floor slope: The existing aggregate concrete floor slopes from 5 cm on one side to 6 cm on the other.
• No wooden slab for track support: Due to the eaves, there isn’t an existing wooden structure to which the sliding door track can be securely screwed.
• Size mismatch: Standard-sized aluminum sliding doors (2.1m x 2.1m, priced at $850 each) would leave some gaps that need to be filled.

Size requirements for the doors:

• Width: 214 cm, Height: 230–235 cm
• Width: 223 cm, Height: 230–236 cm

I’ve obtained a few quotes on Facebook Marketplace, and they’re approximately $3,200 for custom-sized doors (two sliding doors).

While I’ve tackled quite a few DIY projects in the past, this one seems a bit more complex—particularly the drilling into bricks to secure the sliding door frame and then addressing the leftover gaps.

Do you think this project is feasible as a DIY endeavor, or would professional installation be worth the cost? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

    

[Jewelleryrescue]

 Hi @talexpat 

Your  confidence level as to the task at hand is your guide Vs to get some one in to do this for you,

Can I suggest you make a list of  all the tasks you need to learn and then  set out to learn  them at bunning how toos or youtubes,

This will boost your confidence and skills ahead of  time

Also windows are heavy and  awkard you will need help there.

Also  consider the tools you need to drill holes in concrete do  you  want to own these tools for a one of  job?

Just break down the project into  bit size chunks.

But yes it is a solid project leaning towards more advanced, But  we all learnt some how.

[talexpat]

Thank you for your motivational reply!

I’d appreciate your advice on a couple of things:

1. How can I compensate for the uneven aggregate concrete slopes on either side (5 cm and 6 cm)?

2. What’s the best approach for attaching a sliding door track? Should I fix it directly to the eaves or the concrete sheet above, or would screws/bolts into the brick pillars and aggregate concrete suffice?

Looking forward to your suggestions!

[MitchellMc]

Hi @talexpat,

This project could certainly be a rewarding challenge, but it does involve a few technical aspects that may require some experience, especially with drilling into masonry and addressing the uneven concrete floor. You’d need to be comfortable using the right tools for both tasks, as well as finding a way to secure the sliding door track properly. It’s important to keep in mind that it might take a bit more time and effort, especially with the specialised tasks involved. If you’re feeling unsure at any point, professional help might be a good option to consider.

For the questions about compensating for the uneven concrete slopes and attaching the sliding door track, those are best directed to the door manufacturer. They will have the most accurate advice regarding the specific door product you're using, as different manufacturers may have different installation requirements or solutions for such challenges. They can provide guidance on how to handle the uneven floor and the best way to secure the track, considering the design of their product and the materials you're working with. 

Please let us know if you have any questions.

Mitchell