MI Windows offers a range of window products, and comprehensive documentation is available to assist with installation and maintenance. This article details the installation recommendations specifically for the MI Windows V3000 1615 Sliding Glass Door, based on the provided installation manual. The information is intended for installers and focuses on integrating the door into wood-framed structures three stories or less in height. It is crucial to consult local building codes and industry standards, as they may supersede these recommendations. Responsibility for proper product selection and installation rests with the owner, architect, and installer.
Important Pre-Installation Considerations
Prior to commencing installation, a thorough inspection of the door product is required. This includes verifying the door’s dimensions against the rough opening, confirming that the features align with project specifications (such as Low-E coating, color, code compliance, rating, and operating direction), and ensuring the product is free from damage. All necessary components – locks, labels, and weather stripping – should also be present. Installation should not proceed if any concerns regarding the product’s condition or suitability arise.
The documentation emphasizes the importance of maintaining plumb and square jambs with the head and sill throughout the installation process. Panels should remain closed during installation to prevent distortion. Avoiding conditions where the sill or head are crowned up or bowed down is critical, as is ensuring equal jamb widths.
Fastener Specifications and Installation Holes
Specific fastening requirements exist for certain product features, such as impact resistance, and for installations in specific regions like Florida and Texas. Installers should consult online resources (floridabuilding.org or tdi.texas.gov) or contact MI Windows and Doors directly for these detailed requirements.
Installation necessitates drilling holes in the head and jambs, spaced 12 inches on center, using a step drill bit. These holes should not be located within 3 inches of any corner of the product. Drilling or anchoring through the sill is not recommended due to the potential for water infiltration.
Mounting Fin Installation
If the door includes a mounting fin, it should be installed in the main frame with sealant applied between the fin and the frame. All joints in the mounting fin must also be sealed.
Weather Resistant Barrier and Sill Flashing
If a weather resistant barrier (WRB) is already in place on the building, an opening must be prepared to accommodate the door, following the WRB manufacturer’s recommendations. It is essential to confirm that preparing the opening will not compromise the WRB manufacturer’s warranty or impede drainage.
MI Windows recommends using sill flashing in conjunction with a complete interior air dam around the product. The ends of the sill flashing should be turned upward a minimum of 6 inches to prevent water from flowing off the flashing. The fenestration product, WRB, flashings, anchoring, and sill flashing must be sealed to inhibit air and water flow while allowing drainage.
Integrating the Door – Fin and Finless Products
The installation process differs slightly depending on whether the door has a mounting fin or is finless.
For fin products, flashing should be installed over the mounting fin according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This involves applying flashing to the jambs, extending at least 1 inch above the head mounting fin and below the sill flashing. A J-roller should be used to eliminate bubbles or creases. Flashing must also be applied to the head of the door, extending at least 1 inch beyond the jamb flashing. The weather resistant barrier (WRB) flap should be removed and folded downward, covering the head mounting fin, and sealed with WRB sealant tape.
For finless products, backer rod should be installed at the head and jambs, followed by sealant. Sealant should be applied across the sill, leaving gaps 2 inches wide, and these gaps should not align with weeps. The gaps should be no more than 4 feet apart, with additional gaps added as necessary for larger units. Sealant manufacturers’ instructions regarding bead size and backer rod rules should be followed.
Air Sealing
A continuous air seal should be created between the rough opening and the door using backer rod, low-pressure low-expansion foam, or loose batt insulation, along with sealant. Caution should be exercised when using foam to avoid distorting the frame.
Fastener Application
Metal anchors should be installed across the sill every 12 inches on center and secured with the supplied screws. Anchoring through the sill is not recommended to prevent water infiltration. Fasteners should penetrate the rough framing by a minimum of 1 inch or as required by local code. They should be installed straight, not angled, and care should be taken to avoid distorting the frame or mounting fin.
Unless otherwise required by code, MI Windows recommends applying fasteners securely into every other pre-punched slot on all sides of the door. Fastening in other locations may damage the unit, and staples should not be used.
Roller Adjustment
If necessary, the height and squareness of the operating panel can be adjusted using the adjustment screws on the wheels. Clockwise rotation raises the panel, while counter-clockwise rotation lowers it.
Inspection and Preparation of the Rough Opening
The rough opening should be inspected to ensure it is properly prepared to receive the door. Figures A, B, C, and D illustrate aspects of this preparation. Installation holes, as previously described, are required. The documentation provides visual guidance on rolling across the sill and turning up the jambs to form a dam, as well as techniques for turning down the exterior corners.
Sealant Application
The documentation details specific sealant application techniques, including the use of sealant in conjunction with backer rod and flashing. Figures E, I, J, and K provide visual representations of these techniques.
Conclusion
The successful installation of an MI Windows V3000 1615 Sliding Glass Door requires careful attention to detail, adherence to the provided recommendations, and compliance with local building codes and industry standards. Proper preparation of the rough opening, correct fastener application, and effective sealing are crucial for ensuring the door’s performance and longevity. The documentation stresses the importance of inspecting the product thoroughly before installation and addressing any concerns regarding its condition or suitability.