Bi-folds are incredibly popular among homeowners but with an intricate design and structure, it’s important they’re installed correctly to avoid future issues with how they operate. An incredibly important installation step for any bi-fold door system is completing the toe and heel process as it helps to make sure they run smoothly and last much longer.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through how to toe and heel bi-fold doors so you can confidently complete the process like a pro but first, let’s look at why toe and heeling is so fundamental.
The importance of toe and heeling bi-fold doors
Made predominantly from several glass panels which reach heights of up to 3000mm and widths of 1200mm, bi-fold doors are incredibly heavy and so toe and heeling is essential.
In simple terms, toe and heeling is used to describe the process where the glazing panels are used to distribute their weight into the correct areas of the doors. When done properly, the glass within the bi-fold system can then successfully support its own weight helping to prevent the door from dropping or catching on the bottom track when in use.
The adjustments not only ensure smooth and effortless operation, but they guarantee the proper functioning of a bi-folding door for many years.
A comprehensive guide on how to toe and heel a bi-fold door
To help ensure the smooth operation and alignment of bi-folding doors, check out our comprehensive guide below which explains the best technique to use when toe and heeling a bi-fold door.
But before you get started on the toe and heel adjustment, be sure to grab packers, a glazing paddle, gasket snips and a glazing mallet.
Step 1: Positioning the first packers
Always start the toe and heeling process in the bottom corner of the first panel that is hinged to the jamb and then work backwards towards the traffic door.
Place the first packer on the bottom rail (where the glass will sit in the panel).
Step 2: Adding the glazing
Then place the glass into the door, sitting it firmly on top of the packer at the bottom. Place packers in the same corner along the vertical style, then place packers on the style and rail in the opposite corner.
Once corners are in, place supporting packers. Repeat this on the remainder of the doors, adding the packers on alternate corners.
Step 3: Installing the beads and gaskets
Now that the toe and heel process has been completed, all that’s left is to add the beads and fit the gaskets.
When it comes to fitting the beads, always start with the top and bottom bead to properly secure the glass.
Once done, we’d advise that you check the door can’t catch and operates smoothly. If it doesn’t work as you would like, this is your chance to adjust it before moving on to the next step.
Once you are happy everything is in line then repeat the process of installing the bead for the sides.
To install the gaskets, cut them to perfectly match the size of the top and bottom of the door and then slide it into place. The best way to do this is by starting in a corner and working your way across the centre to the opposite side.
Finalising the bi-fold door toe and heel process
Simply repeat these same steps for each individual door frame and then the entire toe and heel process will be finished and the weight from the glass will be properly distributed and adjusted.
Why does high-quality installation matter for bi-fold doors?
Delivering a professional, high-quality installation for any bi-fold door system is crucial to guarantee proper alignment and functionality. By carefully following the steps listed above, experts can confidently handle the toe and heeling process and subsequently deliver quality workmanship.
The toe and heel process is a crucial step
Ultimately to ensure the smooth functioning and longevity of the bi-fold systems you install take care when completing the fundamental toe and heel process because it’s a crucial step.
Not only does toe and heeling help to maintain the correct alignment of a bi-fold but it also helps to prevent any sticking or jamming so use our comprehensive guide to make sure the doors don’t drop and everything continues to function smoothly for years to come.
Remember, take the necessary steps to properly toe and heel every bi-fold you install and you’ll be sure to encounter a lot of happy customers who have confidence in their brand-new bi-fold system.
Get in touch with Debar today
With 15 years’ experience working within the bi-fold door market, we have a fantastic team who have a wide range of knowledge on everything from how to develop a high-quality bi-fold system to manufacturing essential bi-fold hardware and much more. Get in touch today to see how we can support you with your next bi-fold door project.
