Do I need a professional contractor to install my flat track hardware?
If you’re a DIY weekend warrior or good at reading instructions, you should be able to install flat track hardware, provided you have the solid blocking needed to attach the flat track to the wall, either inside the wall or with extended head casing on the finished wall. (See installation instructions for more detail.)
Basic tools required include:
1. A 3’ – 4’ level
2. Power drill with 3/16” drill bit to attach anti-jump blocks and pre-drill your door for hangers
3. Adjustable wrench or socket set to attach lag bolts for the hangers
4. Router or circular saw to cut a groove into the door for the floor t-guide.
If that all sounds a little beyond your skill-set, hire a local professional contractor.
Can I mount flat track directly to drywall?
Only if there is reinforcement inside the wall behind the drywall.
How do I size my door for the opening?
The purchased door should overlap the opening by 1” on each side. Example: A 36” wide door will have a 34” opening.
How much ceiling clearance do I need for a flat track system?
There should be a minimum of 6” of clearance between the ceiling and the top of the door hanger.
Can I mount flat track hardware to a hollow core door?
It can be done, though we don’t recommend it.
If using the T-floor guide, a 1/4” groove must be cut into the bottom of the door to hold it in place. This might compromise the integrity of the door since hollow core doors are reinforced around the perimeter, and it is essential to be careful with dealing with hollow core doors.
Where should I use bi-parting (double) doors instead of a single door?
Bi-parting doors are a great solution for spaces where there’s insufficient clearance on a single side to fully open a sliding door. Two smaller doors to either side can still allow for a sliding door in tight spaces.
How do I select the number of heavy duty hinges I need or choose between disc or ball bearing hinges?
RW Hardware hinges are very heavy duty, meant for doors or gates that weigh a substantial amount (> 200 lbs). The number of hinges and type required is usually calculated by height, weight, width of a single door panel, and daily use. Contact us for help in determining what you need.
Can the rail be installed by being welded instead of bolted?
Yes, it can be welded. We have welding/lube kits that can be ordered. You will still need
to use our mounting brackets that are designed to go with each type of track
system to keep the rail in square.
What is the reason to use mounting brackets?
To keep the rail in square so that it ensures the truck/hanger has a smooth path. RW warranty is voided if our mounting brackets are not used.
How do I figure out which mount I need to use for my hinges?
You will need to figure out what we call the “moment” using the following formula:
door weight x the door width = moment.
Once you have the moment you can check the charts in the RW Hardware catalog to see which hinge and how many you will need. Contact us if you need assistance.
Will End Blinds stop the trucks/hangers?
No. End Blinds are designed to keep dirt, debris and birds from getting into the rail system.
Do I really need end stops?
Yes, we don’t want any injuries. You need end stops to keep the door/gates from rolling out of the ends of the rail.
What grade does RW Hardware use for its Stainless Steel Track?
RW Hardware stainless steel is grade 304.
Do I have to use a back plate for your hinges?
No, the back plates are not required.
What is your warranty?
RW Hardware products are warranted to be of good quality, and free from defects in material and workmanship under normal intended use for a period of (10) years.
Does your Box Track require a track or guide in the floor?
We do manufacture a floor guide and track for wood doors, however it is not required. RW track is designed to work with the top track only. Nothing is needed in the floor.
If I use more than 2 trucks/hangers per door, will I be able to get a stronger weight capacity?
No, RW Hardware trucks/hangers are designed to be used with 2 per door. Using more than 2 will void the warranty.
I have already submitted a contact form and no one is getting back to me. What should I do next?
Thank you for submitting a contact form. We truly value your questions and your time, however, due to staffing issues we are a little short-handed at the moment. We ask you to please be patient and we will contact you either by phone or email in the coming days. Alternatively, you can call our hotline at 800-253-5668.
