[nutshellml]

Afternoon all... Not really a DIY project I'm going to do, but I do plan to actually procure the door and then have it professionally installed. That said, I currently have a standard 5' opening with door that slides to one side, I will be replacing that with a larger sliding "double" door that closes to the middle and has glass on each side. The wall is about 15' and will be my main entrance to the back deck. Few Questions as this is a first home and first planned remodel:
1) How large of a door would aesthetically look good?
2) What brands do you all recommend? Anderson, Pella? And big box store or local window shops?
3) Are these types of doors fully customizable regarding size/opening? I have the ability to put any size since it's a remodel

Any additional advice when shopping is appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[ddawg16]

I would avoid the big box stores.

You save little to nothing trying to use a standard size. Get the size you want.

I'd get quotes from 2-3 Window/Door places. Most lumber yards also have door and window sources.

Be aware, because you are making the actual opening larger, you're going to need a much bigger header across the span. The side lights do not count a support.

 

[joecaption]

I agree, main thing is how it's installed.
It's rare to see a door installed correctly.
http://jamsill.com/
Is it's it's not flashed correctly or the deck was built to high it can cause thousands of dollars in damage to the home.

 

[oh'mike]

I prefer Anderson over Pella---I've installed dozens of Andersons without an issue---

Not true for the Pellas that I have installed---also Pella has the screen on the inside of the house---odd but true---

 

[Windows on Wash]

+1 on all the feedback above.

Get the size you want, Andersen is a better door, and installation is the critical detail.

 

[Gary in WA]

May look just as good with a double stud between the door/window to change to load drastically, then size the header for the door alone to see if the wall is high enough for required header;eg. http://publicecodes.cyberregs.com/icod/irc/2009/icod_irc_2009_5_par024.htm

Gary

 

[HomeSealed]

All good info above. A 6' door is pretty standard stuff, although if you want to go all out a 9 or 12' would add some serious drama.

The one other thing that I'd suggest (pardon me if someone else already did), would be to source the door and install from one outfit if possible. Most reputable window and door companies sell "installed" services. The primary benefit is that it avoids the finger pointing when an issue arises and the material people say it an install issue, and the installers say its a product issue. Few parties = Greater accountability.