Accordion folding doors, also known as accordion doors or folding partitions, are a space-saving option used to divide or enclose rooms. They consist of a number of connected panels that fold in an accordion style. When fully expanded, accordion doors form a temporary wall to separate rooms or create privacy. When folded, the doors collapse to one side, allowing an open concept between rooms.
Removing an accordion door is a project homeowner’s can usually handle themselves. The process involves removing the door from its track system, disassembling the panels, and properly disposing of the materials. With some basic tools and safety precautions, you can remove an accordion door in just a few hours.
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When to Remove an Accordion Door
There are a few common reasons homeowners decide to remove accordion doors:
- Replacing accordion door with new style
- Creating an open concept space
- Door is damaged or worn out
- Remodeling room to new layout
- Safety concerns with aging door
If your accordion door is still functioning properly but you want to update to a more modern style, replace with a new accordion door or try a sliding barn style door. However, if the door is damaged, no longer closes properly, or you want to fully open up the space, full removal may be necessary.
Safety should also be considered when deciding whether to remove an aging accordion door. Older doors can have brittle panels, sharp exposed edges, and failing hardware that poses risks. Removing the outdated door eliminates hazards.
Preparing for Removal
Removing an accordion door requires working methodically through each step of the disassembly process. Preparing ahead of time makes the project smoother. Consider the following preparation tips:
- Clear room of furniture or belongings
- Have an assistant help with removal
- Take pictures before disassembling the door
- Gather needed tools and safety equipment
- Plan where to temporarily store door panels
- Arrange debris disposal method
Start by clearing out space around the door area. Remove any furniture, art, or belongings to prevent damage during removal. Have a second person assist with removal whenever possible. The panels can be bulky and awkward for one person to maneuver.
Before taking the door apart, photograph each step of the assembled door. This provides a visual reference during disassembly and can help with reinstallation later if needed. Collect any specialty tools required to access hardware or fasteners. Safety glasses and work gloves are recommended.
Determine where to store the door panels after removal. They will need to be transported from the room and stored temporarily during renovations or disposal. Arrange for debris disposal of the old door materials if not salvaging for reuse.
Disconnecting and Removing Door Panels
With preparation complete, it’s time to start removal of the accordion door. The basic process involves disconnecting the door, removing panels from the track, detaching hardware, and taking apart panels. Follow these key steps:
- Fully expand accordion door and lock in place
- Remove cover trim pieces from both sides
- Detach track from ceiling and walls
- Disconnect pivot hardware at both ends
- Slide panels out from track mounts
- Unscrew connector hardware joining panels
- Take panels apart and stack for transport
Start by fully extending the accordion door till it locks in place, no longer able to expand. Look for small trim pieces or covers at the side of the door and carefully pry these off. Use a flathead screwdriver and gently work around the edges.
With trim removed, you’ll be able to access screws or fasteners to detach the upper track from the ceiling. Be sure to support the weight as you work. Use a stepladder and have someone assist with holding the door.
At the side pivots, remove any fasteners or covers to access the hardware mounts. Detach the pivot joints from the adjacent wall. With both upper and lower hardware disconnected, the panels should now slide freely out of the track system.
Door panels are held together with long screws, rivets, or other fasteners. Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove the connectors between each panel. Start at the outer panels and work inward to disassemble. Carefully stack panels to transport from the room.
Prepping Door Opening and Disposing Materials
With the accordion door fully disassembled, a few finishing steps will complete the removal process:
- Fill holes and repaint accordion door opening
- Transport panels from room
- Properly dispose of door parts
- Clean up work area when finished
Examine the accordion door opening and surrounding walls. Fill any holes or hardware marks left behind with spackle. Once dry, sand smooth and repaint walls and ceiling to match the rest of the room.
Carefully carry all disassembled panels out of the room. Transport materials to a temporary storage location or disposal site. Wear heavy work gloves when handling pieces with sharp exposed edges.
Door parts will likely need to go in the garbage. However, check if any building materials can be recycled in your area. Properly disposing of materials keeps job site clean, safe, and organized.
Finally, tidy up the work space when the project is complete. Sweep floor, put away all tools, and carefully bring back any furniture or items moved from the room. Removing an accordion door takes time but eliminates outdated room dividers.
Reusing or Replacing Accordion Door
After removing an accordion door, you’ll be left with a wider open entryway between rooms. There are a few options depending on your plans:
- Leave opening completely doorless
- Install replacement accordion door
- Salvage door panels for storage divider
- Add new modern sliding or hinged door
Some homeowners prefer to remove the accordion door and leave the space permanently open between rooms. This creates a brighter, more open feeling home. Just be aware this also eliminates privacy and noise separation.
If the door still worked properly but just looked outdated, you may want to install a new accordion door. Newer styles have sleeker hardware, colors, and design options. Measure opening and purchase custom replacement door.
The individual panels from old accordion doors can be reused for other household projects. Stack panels to form a storage divider or room screen. Sand and paint panels to refresh look. Get creative repurposing materials.
Finally, changing to a completely new style of door is an option. Popular replacements for accordion doors include sliding barn doors or standard hinged doors. Hire a handyman if help is needed installing new door.
Conclusion
Removing an accordion folding door allows homeowners to open up room layouts or replace outdated styles. By methodically disassembling the door panels, track system, and hardware, you can fully remove an accordion door as a DIY project. Just be sure to use safe practices and proper tools. With some planning and patience, you can take out old accordion doors and gain space.