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Trackless Folding Doors

| Posted in General Discussion on November 27, 2007 09:35am

My husband and I are completing a renovation of an old CCC-era log cabin in Pennsylvania. This is a weekend retreat for us, and he is nervous about the large Marvin door/window assemblies I have installed. One in particular is 9′-0″ wide x 6′-8″ high, with an operable glass door and two fixed full-height windows on each side (see photo). He has asked me to install a folding door/shutter system on the inside that can be closed and secure when we are away.

I would like to avoid tracks in the floor or above if at all possible. And though I know I can buy hardware similar to that used for Nana walls, I am wondering if anyone has suggestions for the specifics of the hardware, including hinges and bolts/latches to secure the door in place, that will not cost a fortune.

A ‘rustic’ look not dissimilar to a barn door is acceptable, but due to space limitations I am probably looking at 4 equal-sized panels (either all to one side or two to a side, like shutters). How do we insure that the entire assembly is secure? I would prefer not to attach it to the new door assembly.

 

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  1. doorboy | Nov 28, 2007 01:15am | #1

    More info is needed.
    1.) there is no photo.
    2.) is it just for security while you're away?
    3.) are you talking about interior or exterior?
    4.) is an overhead rolling shutter an option?

    1. BGarchi | Nov 28, 2007 06:00pm | #3

      Sorry if it wasn't clear. The doors/shutters definitely need to be on the inside, as we will use also to close off windows when the weather outside is particularly cold at night (so we don't need to have blinds/shades too). I looked at rolling shutters but do not like the look of them, and they are expensive. I really want something simple, made of wood, and fairly easy to operate. Sorry the picture didn't come thru the first time-- maybe this will help!Thanks.

      1. VaTom | Nov 29, 2007 06:08am | #4

        IrfanView, it's a free download.  Very simple to use.

        You want the shutters hinged?  As you didn't plan wall storage, you might be better off with something that clipped in place.

         PAHS Designer/Builder- Bury it!

  2. FastEddie | Nov 28, 2007 03:04am | #2

    To attach a picture, try to have it not larger than about 150k.  Then click on the "attach files" buttion at the bottom of the page and follow the instructions. 

    If I understand right, you want to close the security doors on the inside of the cabin when you are gone.  Why not have them on the outside to protect the glass?  The easy way to do it (it's esasy for me, I'm not doing the work) would be with barn door tracks, solid shutters/doors, and a hasp & padlock.

    "Put your creed in your deed."   Emerson

    "When asked if you can do something, tell'em "Why certainly I can", then get busy and find a way to do it."  T. Roosevelt

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