Installing a Sliding Door Keeper with a Lip: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you tired of dealing with a sliding door keeper that’s not sitting flush with the door frame, but instead is free floating and on a wonky angle? This common issue is often caused by a lip or protrusion on the door frame that prevents the keeper from fitting snugly. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to install a sliding door keeper when there’s a lip that’s getting in the way.
Assess the Situation
Before you start, take a closer look at the lip and the door frame to determine the extent of the issue. Measure the width of the lip and the distance between the lip and the door frame. This will help you determine the best approach to take.
Option 1: Shimming the Keeper
One possible solution is to use shims to fill the gap between the keeper and the door frame. You can purchase shims specifically designed for this purpose or use thin pieces of wood or plastic. Apply the shims to the back of the keeper, making sure they’re evenly spaced and not obstructing the door’s movement. This should allow the keeper to sit flush with the door frame.
Option 2: Creating a Custom Mount
If the lip is quite pronounced, you may need to create a custom mount to lift the keeper above the lip. You can use a piece of wood or plastic to create a small ledge that the keeper can sit on. Attach the ledge to the door frame using screws or adhesive, making sure it’s level and secure. Then, attach the keeper to the ledge using screws or adhesive. This should allow the keeper to sit flush with the door frame.
Option 3: Adjusting the Keeper’s Position
Another option is to adjust the position of the keeper on the door frame. Try moving the keeper slightly forward or backward to see if it can be positioned in a way that allows it to sit flush with the door frame. You may need to experiment with different positions to find the sweet spot.
Tips and Tricks
- When using shims, make sure they’re not too thick, as this can interfere with the door’s movement.
- When creating a custom mount, use a level to ensure the ledge is straight and secure.
- When adjusting the keeper’s position, make sure it’s still accessible and not obstructing the door’s movement.
- Consider consulting the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance on installing the sliding door keeper.
Conclusion
Installing a sliding door keeper with a lip can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right approach, you can achieve a secure and flush fit. By trying out the options outlined above, you should be able to find a solution that works for you. Remember to take your time, measure carefully, and be patient – with a little creativity and perseverance, you can get your sliding door keeper installed and functioning like a charm.
How to install a sliding door keeper when there’s this “lip” which prevents it from sitting flush with the door frame, so it’s just kind of free floating and on a wonky angle? Already tried moving it back away from the lip, but then it’s too far from the handle