Accordian Door...?

Question

Does anyone know if plastic accordian doors can be shortened? (cut by hand)

It is only attached by a track at the top and each panel is hollow with thin strips
between the panels, for support, i guess.
What and where is the 'end cap'?

Answer 1

I don't see any problem with this other than the task of trying to put the end cap back on, which is most likely glued. However, most accordian doors are connected only at the top. I would fold the door up, tape on both sides of the cut with masking tape and cut with a sharp circular saw or band saw. I've cut window blinds with this method and been quite successful. Examine the end cap to see if it can be refitted. Good Luck.

Answer 2

Sounds like one of those cheesy accordion doors that the big boxes sell. If that's the case, there's nothing on the bottom to worry about. However you cut them, be sure to use an appropriate blade (something for cutting laminates or paneling) and tape the cut with blue painters tape to minimize any chipping.

I'll tell you right now, if this is one of those "made in France" doors, just take it back. The things are junk and the sections will slide out of place over time under their own weight. There are all sorts of companies out there that do custom solid and veneer accordion doors. The hardware involved with these in even the lower grades are usually roller bearing construction and will last the life of your home. They're worth the money spent and can be made to size.

Answer 3

With all due respect I answer "CAN" questions often here. The simple answer is "CERTAINLY" The more basic question and answer deals with satisfaction and success.

If it's a molded door; the likelyhood is that the substance of it may be no more than 1/8 inch thick, ALL surfaces.

Obviously, even if that's the case with the door in question, and you OPEN up the bottom; you could FILL the space for support purposes with a piece of lumber cut and trimmed to fit, and glued in.

I want to assume that the type of door you refer to,,, so often used for closets, etc. is likely NOT like a solid core passage way door, or even a hollow CORE door with at least a frame work covered with a SKIN.

The issue might also involve a TRACK if one is used on the floor, to aid the opening and closing. If no such case exists, then assume you can proceed, and perhaps consider my suggestion about installing a FITTED piece of lumber, up into the opening, you created when cutting to the proper length/height.

Steven Wolf

Answer 4

Plastic Accordion Doors

Answer 5

I have shortened them with a coping or hack saw. There are some little screws that will have to be taken off and replaced from the part you cut off. Close the doors and tape them together with something like duct tape to keep them the same length while you are doing the cutting. Cut from the bottom of the door.