What's the best way to make doors fit standard openings?

Question

I have a pantry and laundry area that have bi-fold doors enclosing them. We're remodeling and wanted to replace these doors. The pantry opening is 36 inches wide so I bought the 36'' by 80'' door for it. However when I tried to install it, it did not fit. The door could not close completely because the doors were too big. When I measured the door itself it was a shade under 36''. How come it did not fit? What's the best way to make it fit? Cutting the wood? Shaving it? Sanding it? I think I need about a half inch to an inch in order to make it fit. Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

You said these were "bi-folds" did you take into reference the hinges on the doors, that would have made the differences for the half inch. The doors were in fact 36 inches, then add the hinges. Always carry a tape with you when shopping for items like this. Always measure and mark down what you want and, need. Make sure of your measurements and measure twice.

Double check everything you do, check twice, cut once.

Answer 2

Did you counter sink the hinges into the side jamb and into the door edge? That would give you approx. 1/4 inch. Is the jamb shimmed with an added piece to accept the bi-folds? Is the door too large at both dimensions? Certainly you can shave it; but a fraction.

Steven Wolf