Installation Manual

Patio sliding door system

2-Panel sliding system · Left / Right door main set · Optional screen

Last updated: July 2026

Care guide Easy door care tips Warranty information Know your warranty rights Download PDF Manual Complete installation manual

The VDOM Patio 8166 is a 2-panel metal-plastic sliding door system for residential and light commercial applications. The system ships with the frame disassembled into four profiles — two jambs, a head and a sill — which are assembled on site before installation into the rough opening. Both panels slide independently on their own rails.

TWO THINGS TO CONFIRM BEFORE YOU START

Main set — confirm whether the unit is a Right Door Main Set or a Left Door Main Set, and that the lock keeps on the jamb are on the same side as the active panel. Swapping jambs after the frame is foamed in is not practical. See Section 03.

Screen (mosquito net) is NOT included with the door. It is ordered separately, and it can only be fitted to a frame that has the third rail. See Section 06.

01 Tools required

Measuring and layout - Tape measure, builder's level (spirit level), straightedge, pencil
Drilling and fastening - Drill with bits, Phillips and flat screwdrivers, masonry anchors or wood screws to suit the substrate
Assembly - Rubber mallet (never a steel hammer on the profiles), support blocks of hardwood or structural polymer
Cutting - Hacksaw or cutting tool for trimming the handle pin and the cylinder fixing bolt
Sealing and finishing - Caulking / foam gun, low-expansion polyurethane foam, foam backer rod, exterior-grade silicone sealant
Safety - Safety glasses and gloves, second installer for lifting the assembled frame and the panels

02 Package contents

Item	Qty
Frame profiles (head, sill, left jamb, right jamb)	4 pcs
Corner assembly screws #10 × 4"	4 pcs
Active door panel (lock mechanism factory-installed)	1 pc
Passive door panel	1 pc
Active door lever handle	2 pcs
Passive door flush pull	1 pc
Euro-profile cylinder with 5 keys	1 set
Cylinder covers	1 set
Sash stoppers (door stop), preinstalled on the frame	2 pcs
Screen / mosquito net	NOT INCLUDED — optional, ordered separately

NOTE — TWO PARTS MUST BE CUT TO LENGTH BEFORE ASSEMBLY

The handle connecting pin must be trimmed to 80 mm / 3" before installation, and the cylinder fixing bolt must be trimmed to 45 mm / 1 3/4" before insertion. Both cuts are required — do not install without trimming. See Section 05.

Check the hardware immediately after unpacking

Count the frame profiles, panels, handles, cylinder and keys, covers and corner screws against the list above before the old door or the existing opening finish is disturbed. Report any shortage or transit damage to VDOM with the order number and photographs before installation begins.

03 Technical information

System components

Component	Description
Frame	4-piece profile set: head, sill, left jamb, right jamb — assembled on site
Active door panel	Operable panel with full lever handle and Euro-profile cylinder with keys
Passive door panel	Operable panel with flush pull handle only — no cylinder, no lock
Hardware	Locking mechanism on the active panel, lock keeps on the jamb
Screen / mosquito net	Optional add-on, not included — slides on the third (interior) rail

Main set — Right door main set and left door main set

The main set describes which of the two panels is the active one, and it is always read from INSIDE the building with both panels closed.

RIGHT DOOR MAIN SET — THE REFERENCE CASE

Standing inside the building and looking at the closed door: if the RIGHT panel is the active one, the unit is a Right Door Main Set.

The active right panel runs on the second rail, set toward the exterior relative to the passive door rail, and it carries the full lever handle and the Euro cylinder with keys.

The opposite left panel in this configuration has no lock and no cylinder. It has a flush pull handle only.

A Left Door Main Set is the mirror image: the active panel with the lever handle and cylinder is the LEFT panel as seen from inside, and the right panel carries the flush pull only.

Configuration	Active panel (viewed from inside)	Hardware on the active panel	Opposite panel
Right Door Main Set	Right panel, on the second rail	Full lever handle + Euro cylinder with keys	Flush pull only, no cylinder
Left Door Main Set	Left panel, on the second rail	Full lever handle + Euro cylinder with keys	Flush pull only, no cylinder

Both panels are fully operable and each slides independently along its own rail for the full width of the opening. The difference between them is the hardware, not the movement: only the active panel locks.

Critical installation parameters

Parameter	Description
Distance between fasteners	Approx. 27.5" (700 mm)
Distance from corner to first fastener	Approx. 5.9" (150 mm)
Support block spacing — sill	Every 12" (300 mm)
Support block inset from jamb corner	6" (150 mm)
Corner assembly screw	#10 × 4"
Handle pin length after trimming	80 mm / 3"
Cylinder fixing bolt after trimming	45 mm / 1 3/4"
Cylinder insertion angle	Rotate ~30° to insert, then straighten
Min. gap — window plane to stop (jamb with stop)	3/8" (10 mm)

Installation clearances

The rough opening should be sized to the unit frame size plus the joint width on each side and at the head. Minimum joint widths depend on frame color and element length. Support thermal expansion — do not fit the frame tightly against the opening with zero clearance.

IMPORTANT — THERMAL EXPANSION

Support blocks must be positioned to allow for thermal expansion of the frame. Never fill the full sill gap solid between the frame and the structural sill — the frame must be able to expand and contract independently of the rough opening.

Minimum joint width by frame color and element length (white / non-white)

04 Step-by-step installation

Complete the steps in order. Do not skip the frame orientation check in Step 2 — incorrect frame orientation is the most common installation error on this system.

Before unpacking the frame, verify that the rough opening dimensions match the system unit size shown on the order confirmation / measurement sheet. Measure width and height in at least three locations each. The opening must be clean, dry and structurally sound. Remove any protruding mortar, nails or debris.

Verify opening dimensions match the ordered system size

READ BEFORE ASSEMBLY — CRITICAL

1. DRAINAGE HOLES face the exterior and are at the bottom of the sill profile. Do not install the sill profile upside-down.

2. LOCK KEEPS (strike areas) on the jamb must match the active door side. On a Right Door Main Set the keeps are on the right jamb; on a Left Door Main Set they are on the left jamb. Confirm before assembly.

3. HEAD vs. SILL: the two profiles look similar. The sill has the drainage holes and the roller track groove at the bottom. The head has the top roller retainer groove.

Corner assembly

Connect the four frame profiles at the corners using the supplied #10 × 4" screws. Drive one screw per corner through the jamb end into the head and sill profiles. Do not overtighten — the profile walls are thin and will strip if the torque is excessive.

Corner connection — jamb profile meets head/sill, secured with screw #10 × 4"

IMPORTANT

Apply a bead of silicone sealant inside each corner joint before driving the screw. This seals the corner against water infiltration at the profile joints.

Lift the assembled frame into the rough opening. Maintain the required joint gaps on all sides. Do not force the frame into an undersize opening.

Assembled frame placed in the opening with installation gaps on all sides

IMPORTANT — DRAINAGE ORIENTATION

Confirm the drainage (weep) holes in the sill profile are facing the exterior. If the holes face inward or are blocked, condensation and wind-driven rain will accumulate inside the frame chamber and leak into the building. This is irreversible once the frame is foamed in.

Before any fastening, place support blocks under the sill frame to carry the weight of the structure and transfer it to the building substrate. Support blocks must be made of durable, non-compressible material — hardwood or structural polymer. Do not use foam, cardboard or softwood.

Support block layout — every 12" along the sill, 6" inset from each jamb corner

Sill — one block every 12" (300 mm) along the full sill width.
First block on each side — 6" (150 mm) inset from the jamb corner.
Blocks must sit directly on the structural sill, not on finish flooring or foam.

IMPORTANT

Block position must not restrict thermal movement of the sill profile. Leave small gaps between adjacent blocks so the sill can expand horizontally.

Support blocks positioned under the sill frame

With support blocks in place, check the frame for level (sill), plumb (jambs) and square (diagonal measurement). Adjust the blocks under the sill until the sill is level and the jambs are plumb. Use a rubber mallet only — never a steel hammer directly on the profiles.

Fastening point layout — A: ~27.5" (700 mm) between fasteners; E: ~5.9" (150 mm) from corner

Fastening sequence

Sill — center fastener first, then work outward to both ends.
Left jamb — bottom fastener first, then upward.
Right jamb — bottom fastener first, then upward.
Head — center fastener first, then outward.

Level and secure the jambs — fasteners on both sides, working bottom to top

Frame fixing methods

Direct through-frame fixing — drive fasteners (screws or concrete anchors) directly through the frame profile into the rough opening substrate. Use wood screws for stud/buck openings, masonry anchors for CMU or concrete.
Anchor plates — clip galvanized anchor plates into the outer groove of the frame profile and screw into the rough opening surround. Preferred when drilling through the profile face is not desirable (tiled or clad openings).

IMPORTANT

Do not over-tighten the fasteners. Excessive torque will bow the profile inward, causing the panels to bind on the rails. Snug-tight only — the frame should hold without compressing the profile wall.

Fix the upper (head) profile with fasteners spaced approximately 27.5" (700 mm) apart, starting from the center and working outward. Verify the head profile is not sagging between fasteners — use a straightedge or level along the bottom face of the head.

Secure the head profile — start from center, work outward, check for sag

IMPORTANT

Avoid profile deformation during fastening. If the head bows downward between fastener points, the sliding panels will not clear the top rail. Check with a straightedge after each fastener.

Once the frame is fully secured and confirmed plumb, level and square, fill all gaps between the frame and the rough opening with low-expansion polyurethane foam. Use a foam backer rod in gaps wider than 3/4" (20 mm) to reduce foam consumption and prevent shrinkage cracking.

Fill from the interior side first. Work in sections — foam expands; do not overfill in a single pass.
Do not foam over the sill drainage holes. Keep all weep holes clear.
After the foam cures (typically 2–4 hours), trim it flush with the frame face and cover it with sealant or a trim profile.
Apply a perimeter bead of exterior-grade silicone sealant at the exterior face between the frame and the opening finish.

Install the passive panel first, then the active panel. The passive panel goes on the outer rail; the active panel goes on the second rail.

Two-panel configuration in the assembled frame

Tilt the panel to approximately 30° from vertical and engage the top wheels into the upper track channel first.
Lower the panel so the bottom wheels drop into the lower track.
Slide the panel along the full track travel to confirm it moves freely without binding at any point.
Repeat for the second panel on its rail.

IMPORTANT — GLAZING BEAD ORIENTATION

Install both panels with the glazing beads (the removable glass retaining strip) facing the interior. Glazing beads facing the exterior create a security vulnerability and will not seal correctly against the frame weatherseal.

Lock keep alignment check

Before installing the handle and cylinder, slide the active panel to the closed position and verify that the lock keeps (strikes) on the jamb align with the hook bolt and latch positions on the panel edge. On a Right Door Main Set this check is made at the right jamb, on a Left Door Main Set at the left jamb.

05 Hardware installation

Handle and cylinder installation — pin position, cylinder insertion and covers

The active panel receives a full lever handle on both faces (interior and exterior) connected by a square pin through the panel.

Trim the handle connecting pin to 80 mm / 3" using a hacksaw. Do not install the un-trimmed pin — it will protrude from the opposite side.
Insert the pin through the handle hole on the panel from the interior face.
Align the interior handle over the pin and engage the backplate mounting holes.
Thread the exterior handle onto the pin from the outside and align the backplate.
Tighten the handle mounting screws from both sides.

IMPORTANT — PIN LENGTH

Cut the handle pin to 80 mm / 3" before assembly. A pin that is too long will prevent the exterior handle from seating flush. A pin that is too short will not fully engage both handle barrels.

Trim the cylinder fixing bolt to 45 mm / 1 3/4" using a hacksaw.
Rotate the cylinder approximately 30° from its final position — this is required to align the cam with the insertion slot.
Insert the cylinder into the cylinder mortise from the exterior side.
Rotate the cylinder back to its operating position (key upright).
Thread and tighten the trimmed fixing bolt through the panel edge into the cylinder clamp. Use a hand screwdriver — do not overtighten.
Snap the cylinder covers over the cylinder on both faces.

The passive panel receives only a recessed flush pull handle — no cylinder and no lock. Snap or screw the flush pull into the pocket on the interior face of the passive panel. No pin trimming or cylinder work is required on the passive panel.

WHICH PANEL GETS THE CYLINDER?

The cylinder always goes into the active panel: the right panel on a Right Door Main Set, the left panel on a Left Door Main Set, both read from inside the building. The opposite panel never receives a cylinder — it is supplied with the flush pull only.

06 Optional add-ons

THE SCREEN IS NOT INCLUDED WITH THE DOOR

The Patio 8166 ships without a screen. The screen is ordered separately — either together with the door, or later.

It can only be fitted to a frame that has the third rail. Before ordering a screen for a door that is already installed, confirm that the frame has a third rail on the interior side of the two panel rails. If the frame has only two rails, a sliding screen cannot be added to it.

To check an installed door: stand inside, slide both panels to one side, and look down into the sill. Count the channels. Two channels means the two panels only. A third channel on the interior side of the panel channels is the screen rail. Photograph the sill channel and the frame label and send them to VDOM with the order number when ordering the screen, so the correct size and rail type are supplied.

The screen installs on the innermost (third) rail, on the interior side of both panels. The screen slides without rollers — it rides directly in the track channel using the brush pile on the frame edges.

Tilt the screen frame and engage the top edge into the upper screen track channel first.
Lower the bottom edge into the lower track.
Slide the screen to confirm it moves freely for the full track travel.

Screen cross-section — panel track (outer), screen track (inner), screen frame and roller detail

NOTE

The screen does not have bottom rollers. It rides on the track channel surface. Keep the track channel clean and free of debris for smooth operation. Do not use the screen to support weight or lean against it.

07 Installation errors

Mistake	Result	Prevention
Sill installed upside-down	Drainage holes face the interior — water enters the building	Confirm drainage hole orientation before corner assembly (Step 2)
Wrong jamb left/right	Lock keeps on the wrong side — the active panel cannot lock	Verify the keep position matches the main set before assembly (Step 2 and Section 03)
Head and sill swapped	Top roller groove at the bottom — panels cannot be installed	Check the roller groove profiles: head groove faces down, sill groove faces up (Step 2)
Support blocks omitted or too few	Frame sags at the sill — panels bind and skip off the rail	One block every 12" minimum (Step 4)
Over-tightened fasteners	Frame profile bows inward — panels bind at the fastener points	Snug-tight only; check with a straightedge after tightening (Step 5)
Handle pin not trimmed	Exterior handle cannot seat; the pin protrudes	Trim to 80 mm / 3" before insertion (Section 05)
Cylinder bolt not trimmed	Cannot tighten, or the cylinder will not turn	Trim to 45 mm / 1 3/4" before installation (Section 05)
Foam over the drainage holes	Weep holes blocked — water trapped in the sill	Mask the holes before foaming; confirm they are clear afterward (Step 7)
Glazing beads facing the exterior	Security vulnerability and poor seal against the weatherseal	Confirm both panels have beads facing the interior before final checks (Step 8)
Screen ordered for a two-rail frame	The screen cannot be fitted — there is nothing for it to run in	Confirm the frame has the third rail before ordering (Section 06)

Final check before handover

Check item	Pass condition
Both panels slide full travel	No binding, no rubbing, consistent resistance throughout travel
Active panel closes against the stopper	Full contact, no gap, the panel does not rattle or rebound
Lock mechanism engages	Handle moves to the locked position smoothly; hook bolts engage the keeps fully
Cylinder operates with the key	Key turns smoothly in both the lock and unlock directions
Drainage holes clear	All drainage caps installed; holes open and unobstructed
Frame is plumb and square	Level reads zero on the sill; diagonal measurements equal within 1/8"
All gaps sealed	No visible foam or sealant voids at the perimeter; exterior bead continuous
Glazing beads interior-facing	Both panels confirmed with beads facing inside
Screen slides freely (if fitted)	Full travel, no binding on the track
Lock keep alignment	Hook bolts engage the keeps with no adjustment force required

Care guide

Finishing notes

After the foam cures, trim it flush with the frame face and cover it with sealant or a trim profile.
Remove the protective transport film from all PVC profile surfaces immediately after installation. Film left on profiles in direct sunlight will bond to the surface and cause permanent discoloration.
Check that both panels slide full travel and that the lock engages cleanly after the first 2–4 weeks of operation; re-check sill support and fastener torque if settling has occurred.

Tracks and rollers

Keep the sill roller channels clean. Grit in the channel is the usual cause of heavy sliding.
Vacuum or brush debris from the tracks regularly. Wipe the channels with a damp cloth; do not leave standing water.
Apply a thin film of silicone-based grease or dry PTFE lubricant to the roller wheels and track running surfaces every 6–12 months.
Do not use petroleum-based or WD-40-type penetrating oils on PVC hardware — they degrade rubber seals and plastic components over time.
If a screen is fitted, keep the screen track channel clean. The screen rides on the channel surface without bottom rollers.

Cleaning

Clean PVC frame and sash profiles with warm water and a mild detergent.
Avoid abrasive pads, solvent-based cleaners, acetone, bleach or any product carrying hazard symbols. These will permanently damage powder-coated and PVC surfaces.

Seal and drain inspection

Inspect the perimeter weatherseals annually for cracks, gaps or permanent compression set.
Keep the sill drainage (weep) holes clear at every inspection. Never foam, caulk or paint over them.
Confirm drainage caps are installed and that holes remain open and unobstructed.

Exterior door care guide

How to keep your VDOM entry door looking its best

uPVC Entry Doors Multi-chamber laminated PVC profile

Aluminum Entry Doors Powder coat · Sublimation · Wood / MDF

Your VDOM entry door is built to perform in all four seasons. This guide shows you exactly how to clean and maintain it — by door type and finish — so it keeps looking showroom-new for years with minimal effort.

01 The Basics — for every VDOM entry door

Whether you have a uPVC or an aluminum door, these three habits will cover most of your maintenance. Everything else in this guide builds on them.

Outdoor doors collect pollen, road dust, insect residue, and exhaust soot faster than anything inside the house. A quick monthly clean keeps this from building into grime that needs serious scrubbing later.

Rinse first. Use a garden hose on low pressure to knock off loose dust and pollen. Never use a pressure washer — even on the 'low' setting it can force water past door seals and glazing tape.
Wash with mild soap. Mix 3-4 drops of dish soap in a bucket of warm water. Wipe with a soft microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge, working top to bottom.
Rinse off the soap. Soap residue left to dry becomes a dull film that attracts more dirt. Rinse with clean water.
Wipe dry. A dry microfiber cloth removes water spots and leaves the surface looking clean. On glass inserts, buff dry before the water air-dries — standing water leaves mineral deposits.

Never use these on any VDOM entry door

Pressure washer or steam cleaner — forces water past seals.
Bleach, ammonia, or chlorine-based products (Pine-Sol, Clorox wipes, standard Windex).
All-purpose household sprays (Lysol, 409, Fantastik) — many contain solvents.
Abrasive pads, steel wool, or stiff-bristle scrub brushes.
Acetone, nail polish remover, or paint thinner.
Silicone furniture polish (Pledge) — fogs the surface and attracts dust

Install a canopy or overhang — this is the single most effective thing you can do for your door

A canopy projecting at least 12 inches (30 cm) beyond the door face keeps rain, snow, and direct sun off the door surface. Without one, every rain event drives water into seals and joints, and summer sun bakes finishes from the outside.

Direct afternoon sun on a dark-color door raises the surface temperature well above what any manufacturer rates their finishes for. A canopy eliminates this.

If your installation does not have a canopy, discuss adding one with your contractor. It extends the life of every component — door, frame, glass seals, hardware, and threshold — by years.

Lock mechanism: apply a small amount of graphite powder or PTFE dry lubricant to the keyway and bolt faces once a year. Never use WD-40 inside a lock — it attracts grit and thickens into a paste over time.
Hinges: apply a drop of machine oil or PTFE spray to each hinge pivot annually. A stiff hinge puts stress on the door panel and frame at the hinge zone.
Handle and hardware: wipe with a dry or barely-damp cloth. Apply a thin coat of automotive paste wax to hardware faces twice a year — this slows tarnishing and salt deposit buildup, especially in coastal locations.
Weatherstripping: inspect the perimeter seal each fall. A seal that is cracked, compressed flat, or torn allows drafts, water, and insects in. Replacement seals are available from VDOM by door model.

02 uPVC (Metal-Plastic) entry doors

VDOM uPVC doors use a multi-chamber steel-reinforced PVC profile as both the structural frame and the visible door surface. The profile is co-extruded or laminated with a decorative layer. Because the entire visible face is PVC, care is straightforward and the same across all colors, with one important color-specific note.

PVC PROFILE — WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The color is either integral to the PVC compound (standard white and light colors) or applied as a factory laminate bonded under heat (dark colors: black, anthracite, dark gray, and specialty shades).

Integral-color PVC is highly resistant to cleaning agents and UV. It can be cleaned with mild soap and water without any concern about the color layer.

Laminated dark-color profiles have the same non-porous PVC face but an additional adhesive layer at edges and joints — this layer is heat-sensitive. Treat them with slightly more care in terms of heat exposure (direct afternoon sun, anything placed against the door surface).

All colors are UV-stabilized, but very dark colors absorb significantly more heat. A black or anthracite door in direct afternoon sun can reach surface temperatures that are hard to touch with a bare hand.

Monthly routine: follow Section 1.1. uPVC is one of the easiest exterior surfaces to clean — most outdoor grime comes off with soap and water and a soft cloth.
Scuffs and marks: a melamine foam eraser (Mr. Clean Magic Eraser) used lightly on the PVC surface removes most stubborn marks including rubber scuffs and hard water deposits. Use minimal pressure — test in a corner first on dark laminated surfaces.
Sap, adhesive, or sticker residue: apply a small amount of vegetable oil or baby oil to the area, leave for 2-3 minutes, then wipe off with a warm soapy cloth. Rinse clean.
Chalky or dull white surface (oxidation): standard white PVC that has oxidized over many years can be restored with a dedicated uPVC cleaner or a small amount of white automotive polish applied with a soft cloth, then buffed off. This is a once-every-few-years task, not routine.
Textured surface channels: use a soft-bristle brush with the soapy water solution to work grime out of texture grooves. Rinse and dry — soap left in channels dries as white residue.

White and Light Colors
The easiest to maintain. Occasional discoloration from iron deposits (rust streaks from nails or fasteners nearby) can be removed with a diluted white vinegar solution — 50/50 with water — applied with a cloth and rinsed off. Do not let vinegar sit for more than 2-3 minutes.
Black, Anthracite, and Dark Colors (Laminated)
Dark profiles show fingerprints and water spots more visibly than light colors. After the monthly wash, a dry microfiber buff removes remaining water marks. Inspect the profile edges and corner joints each spring — the laminate can begin to lift at these points on south-facing installations with high sun exposure. If an edge starts to lift, press it back and run a fine bead of clear UV-stable silicone along the edge immediately.

Dark-color uPVC in direct sun — what to watch

Very dark colors (RAL 9005 Black, RAL 7016 Anthracite) absorb substantially more heat than white or light colors. On a south-facing installation without a canopy, peak summer surface temperatures on a dark door can be high enough to soften laminate edge adhesive.

If your dark door is south- or west-facing, a canopy is even more important than for light-color doors.

Never place anything against a dark uPVC surface in direct sun — furniture, cardboard, mats, packages. These trap heat and can leave marks or cause localized laminate softening.

Gray (All Shades)
Mid-tone grays behave similarly to light colors in terms of heat absorption. Standard cleaning applies. On textured gray profiles, light discoloration in the texture grooves is typically grime, not damage — a soft brush with soapy water removes it easily.

The joint between glass and PVC frame — the most important rule

Never spray water or cleaning solution directly at the door. Always apply to the cloth first, then wipe.
Never let liquid run into the joint where the glass meets the PVC frame. The glazing tape and sealant at this joint is what keeps weather out — forcing water into it under pressure or by pooling breaks down the seal over time.
When wiping the glass, work from the center outward and stop before the frame edge. Wipe the frame separately.
After cleaning, check the glass perimeter for any gaps in the sealant. Re-seal any gaps with a clear, neutral-cure silicone sealant rated for glazing.

Clear and frosted glass: ammonia-free glass cleaner on a microfiber cloth, straight strokes, buff dry. Ammonia-free Windex or 50/50 distilled water and white vinegar both work well.
Decorative or tinted glass: plain water on a soft cloth, then dry. Avoid vinegar on tinted coatings.
Hard water deposits: 50/50 white vinegar and distilled water on a cloth, left on for 60 seconds, wiped and immediately dried.

✓ Do

Monthly wash: dish soap, soft cloth, rinse, dry
Magic Eraser (lightly) for stubborn marks and scuffs
Vegetable oil for sap and adhesive residue
Diluted white vinegar for rust streaks on white PVC
Soft brush for textured surface channels
Inspect dark-color laminate edges each spring
Apply glass cleaner to cloth only — never spray at door
Clear silicone to re-seal any glass perimeter gaps

✕ Do not

Use pressure washer — even low pressure damages seals
Use bleach, ammonia, or chlorine cleaners
Use acetone or solvent cleaners on any surface
Leave dark-color door in direct sun without a canopy
Let liquid run into the glass-to-frame joint
Use abrasive pads or stiff brushes on PVC or glass
Apply silicone polish (Pledge) — fogs the surface
Pull lifting laminate edges — press back and seal instead

03 Aluminum entry doors

VDOM aluminum entry doors combine an aluminum structural frame with a door panel that may be finished in one of three ways: powder coat, sublimation (laminated metal), or a wood veneer / moisture-resistant MDF face. Each has different care requirements. Check your order confirmation or the door edge label to confirm which finish your door has.

How to identify your aluminum door finish

Powder coat: uniform solid color, slightly textured to the touch, matte or satin sheen. The surface feels like the outside of a quality appliance.

Sublimation / laminated metal: a realistic wood-grain, stone, or decorative print that looks like real texture but is smooth to the touch. Very consistent pattern across the panel.

Wood veneer: visible natural wood grain that changes slightly across the panel. Warm to the touch. Edges may show the veneer thickness.

Moisture-resistant MDF with foil or film: similar appearance to eco-veneer interior doors — smooth, slightly flexible surface over a rigid MDF core.

Powder coat is a dry paint applied electrostatically and cured under heat directly onto the aluminum frame and panel. The result is a hard, uniform, weather-resistant film — one of the most durable exterior finishes available. It resists UV fading, handles temperature extremes well, and cleans easily.

Routine monthly wash: follow Section 1.1. Powder coat is the most forgiving aluminum finish to clean. Most outdoor grime releases with soap and water.
Pollen and road film: these build up as a hazy layer on horizontal surfaces (top of door, window sills). The monthly rinse and wipe handles this without scrubbing.
Grease and fingerprints: diluted dish soap on a cloth removes these easily. Powder coat does not absorb oils.
Scuffs from tools, keys, or packages: light surface scuffs on powder coat can sometimes be reduced by rubbing gently with a small amount of automotive paste wax (e.g., Turtle Wax or Meguiar's) on a soft cloth. This fills micro-scratches slightly and restores gloss.
Mildew in recesses or along frame joints: diluted white vinegar (50/50 with water) on a cloth, scrubbed gently with a soft brush, then rinsed. For heavy mildew, diluted oxygen bleach (OxiClean mixed to label strength) — test in a hidden area first, rinse completely.

Powder coat — the one thing that damages it

Deep scratches and chips that go through to bare aluminum. These must be touched up promptly to prevent the aluminum from oxidizing (turning chalky white) under the coating.

Touch-up: clean and dry the area, apply a matching powder coat touch-up pen or brush-on liquid. Apply in thin coats. This is a cosmetic repair — it will not be invisible, but it stops further oxidation.

Caustic (strongly alkaline or strongly acidic) cleaners strip powder coat permanently. Avoid any cleaning product that is not labeled pH-neutral or 'safe for painted aluminum'.

✓ Do

Monthly wash: dish soap, microfiber cloth, rinse, dry
Automotive paste wax to reduce light surface scuffs
White vinegar solution for mildew in frame joints
Touch up chips promptly with matching touch-up pen
Apply glass cleaner to cloth — never spray at door
Automotive paste wax on hardware twice a year

✕ Do not

Use pressure washer or steam cleaner
Use caustic or strongly alkaline cleaners
Let chips or scratches sit unaddressed — oxidation follows
Use abrasive pads or steel wool
Use ammonia-based cleaners near glass or hardware
Use acetone or paint thinner near any surface

Sublimation and laminated metal finishes apply a decorative print — typically realistic wood grain, concrete, stone, or solid color — directly to an aluminum panel through a heat-transfer or bonding process. The surface is completely smooth to the touch while looking highly textured, and the colors are UV-stabilized for outdoor use. This is a low-maintenance, high-appearance finish.

Routine monthly wash: follow Section 1.1. The non-porous metallic surface releases grime very easily. Most marks come off with plain soapy water and a soft cloth.
Fingerprints: very visible on dark or gloss-finish sublimation panels. A dry microfiber cloth buffing pass after the wash removes them.
Hard water or mineral deposits: 50/50 white vinegar and distilled water on a cloth, wiped on, left 30 seconds, wiped off, buffed dry. Do not let vinegar sit more than a minute.
Stubborn marks: a small amount of isopropyl alcohol (70%) on a cloth, blotted on the mark, then wiped clean and dried. Test in a hidden spot first.

Sublimation / laminated finish — keep these away

Abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or steel wool — the decorative print is a surface layer and scratches are immediately visible and permanent.
Solvents (acetone, paint thinner, nail polish remover) — attack the print layer.
Sharp objects placed or dragged against the surface — e.g., ladder feet, tools rested against the door. Always pad contact points.
Never use a squeegee with a metal or hard plastic edge on this finish.

✓ Do

Monthly wash: soap, soft microfiber, rinse, buff dry
Dry microfiber buff after washing removes fingerprints
White vinegar (50/50) for mineral deposits — max 1 min
70% isopropyl on cloth for stubborn marks (test first)
Apply glass cleaner to cloth only — never spray at door
Pad any ladder feet or tools that contact the door

✕ Do not

Use abrasive pads or steel wool — scratches are permanent
Use acetone, solvents, or nail polish remover
Use pressure washer or direct high-pressure hose
Drag or rest hard objects against the panel surface
Use ammonia-based cleaners near glass inserts
Use caustic or strongly alkaline cleaning products

Some VDOM aluminum doors feature a door panel faced with real wood veneer or a moisture-resistant MDF core wrapped in a protective film. The aluminum frame handles the structural and weatherproofing role while the panel face delivers the warmth and texture of wood. Because of this split responsibility, care involves both the aluminum frame and the wood or film face — each with its own rules.

Wood veneer and MDF panel — the most important rule

The wood face on an aluminum entry door is protected by a lacquer or UV-oil coating, but it is still real wood (or wood-based). It must be kept dry.

This finish requires a canopy above the door. Without protection from direct rain contact, the veneer edge seals will fail within one or two seasons. This is not a guideline — it is a design requirement.

The bottom edge of the panel is the most exposed point. Inspect it each fall. Any swelling, bubbling, or coating failure at the base must be addressed immediately

Cleaning the Wood Veneer Face

Routine dusting: dry microfiber cloth, wiped with the wood grain direction
Light soil and fingerprints: a barely-damp cloth wrung almost dry. Dry immediately afterward. Never leave moisture on the surface.
Stubborn grime: a few drops of pH-neutral wood cleaner (Murphy Oil Soap diluted to 1/4 strength) on a barely-damp cloth. Wipe with the grain, rinse with a clean damp cloth, dry.
Never use: pressure washers, direct hose spray, steam, abrasive pads, bleach, ammonia, or any solvent. These will strip the protective coating and expose raw wood to weather.

Cleaning the MDF / Film Face

Same approach as eco-veneer interior doors: damp microfiber, mild dish soap, rinse, dry. The non-porous film surface is easy to clean.
Avoid edges: the edge seals where film meets aluminum are the most vulnerable point. Do not scrub edges or apply excess water pressure there.

Annual Maintenance for Wood Veneer

UV-oiled veneer panels need re-oiling every 1-2 years — when the surface appears dry or dull in raking light. Apply a thin coat of the same oil specified for your door (hard-wax oil or a dedicated exterior wood oil — contact VDOM for the specification). Rub in with the grain, let sit 15-20 minutes, buff off all excess. Let cure 24 hours before the door gets wet.

Lacquered veneer does not need periodic re-coating under normal conditions. If the lacquer begins to show wear, fine cracks, or cloudiness, apply a compatible exterior clear lacquer by brush, one thin coat, with the grain.

Glass inserts on aluminum doors — same rule as uPVC

Always apply cleaner to cloth first — never spray at the door.
Keep liquid away from the glass-to-frame joint. Water forced into this joint breaks down the glazing sealant over time.
Use ammonia-free glass cleaner only.
Inspect the glass perimeter sealant annually. Re-seal any gaps with clear neutral-cure silicone.

✓ Do

Install a canopy — required for this finish
Wipe with the wood grain — dry microfiber for dust
Barely-damp cloth for marks — dry immediately
pH-neutral wood cleaner (diluted) for stubborn grime
Re-oil UV-oiled veneer every 1-2 years
Inspect base edge each fall for swelling or seal failure
Apply glass cleaner to cloth — never spray at door
Re-seal glass perimeter annually with neutral silicone

✕ Do not

Install without a canopy or overhang
Use direct hose spray, steam, or pressure washer
Let moisture sit on veneer surface — dry immediately
Use bleach, ammonia, solvents, or abrasive pads
Scrub or apply pressure at film-to-frame edge joins
Use petroleum-based or silicone-based wood polish
Use ammonia-based glass cleaner near frame joints
Ignore base edge swelling or paint failure — address fast

04 Seasonal checklist

Take 10-15 minutes at each seasonal change to run through this checklist. Catching problems early is always easier than fixing them later.

Season	What to Check and Do
Fall	Full clean of door, frame, and glass. Inspect all glass perimeter sealant — re-seal any gaps before winter rain. Check weatherstripping for cracks or flat spots; replace if needed. Touch up any chips or scratches on powder coat or aluminum frame before first freeze. Lubricate lock mechanism and hinges. Check threshold seal. For wood veneer panels, assess whether re-oiling is needed before winter.
Winter	Rinse road salt off the door and frame after salting events — salt accelerates corrosion on hardware and aluminum. Use a de-icing spray (not rock salt) if ice forms on the threshold or panel. Check that the door sweep is not displaced by ice. Do not chip ice off the door face with a scraper.
Spring	Full clean after winter grime. Inspect dark-color laminate or film edges on south/west-facing doors — any lifting found now is easier to fix than after another summer. Touch up chips found over winter. For wood veneer: check base edge carefully for any swelling or finish failure. Lubricate hinges and check hinge screw tightness after winter settling.
Summer	Rinse pollen off monthly (or more often in high-pollen areas). Check dark-color uPVC laminate and aluminum panel edges in July-August when surface temperatures are highest. Inspect the canopy or overhang for any damage that reduces its coverage. For wood veneer panels: the surface should look consistent — any gray or darkened areas indicate UV breakdown and need a maintenance coat.

05 Troubleshooting

Most problems give you early warning signs before they become expensive. Here is what to look for and what to do.

What you see	Likely cause	What to do
Dark-color uPVC laminate lifting at edge	Heat from direct sun softening edge adhesive	Press back immediately. Apply UV-stable clear silicone along edge. Install or extend canopy.
White chalky patches on white uPVC	Surface oxidation after years of UV exposure	Apply uPVC cleaner or white automotive polish with a soft cloth. Buff off. This restores the surface.
Water inside the door frame / on threshold	Glazing seal failure, or weatherstripping gap	Inspect glass perimeter sealant and all weatherstripping. Re-seal or replace as needed. Do not ignore — water reaching door core is expensive.
Aluminum frame developing white powder	Oxidation on exposed aluminum (paint chip or seal failure)	Clean the area, apply primer rated for aluminum, then touch up with matching powder coat paint. Address immediately — oxidation spreads.
Wood veneer panel swelling at base	Water reaching the MDF or wood core through failed base seal	This is urgent. Remove the door if possible, let dry fully, re-seal all edges with exterior-grade varnish and sealant. If swelling is significant, the panel may need replacement.
Glass shows mineral spots or white rings	Hard water dried on glass surface	Apply 50/50 white vinegar and distilled water. Let sit 1 minute, wipe, buff dry. Repeat if needed.
Glass seal cloudy or discolored at edge	Seal degradation from water infiltration or age	Re-seal the glass perimeter with clear neutral-cure silicone. If glass has fogged between panes, the insulating unit has failed and needs replacement.
Door hard to lock — key turns with difficulty	Lock mechanism needs lubrication, or misalignment	Apply graphite or PTFE lubricant to keyway. If problem persists, check door alignment — a settled frame may be putting stress on the latch bolt.
Draft or cold air around door edges	Weatherstripping compressed flat or torn	Replace weatherstripping. VDOM provides replacement seals by door model. This is a 30-minute fix that dramatically improves comfort and energy efficiency.

06 Warranty and getting help

VDOM Limited Warranty — what care-related issues are not covered

The VDOM warranty covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship.
Damage from improper cleaning, chemical contact, or impact is not covered.
Water damage from installations without a canopy or with a failed weatherseal is not covered.
Damage from power washing or high-pressure water contact is not covered.
Wood veneer and MDF panels installed without canopy protection are not covered for moisture damage.
Keep your order number. Some claims require the door model number and purchase date.

When to Call VDOM

You see a finish defect that appeared within 12 months of installation and is not related to cleaning or impact — this may be a warranty claim.
You need a matching touch-up pen or paint code for your powder coat color.
You need a replacement weatherseal or threshold specification for your door model.
You are unsure whether a cleaning product is safe for your specific finish.

Quick Reference

Safe for all VDOM entry door finishes

Mild dish soap in warm water — monthly wash for all doors
Soft microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge
50/50 white vinegar + distilled water — mineral deposits and glass
Ammonia-free glass cleaner applied to cloth — glass only
Automotive paste wax on hardware faces — twice a year
Graphite or PTFE dry lubricant — lock mechanism, annually

Never use on any VDOM entry door

Pressure washer or steam cleaner
Bleach, ammonia, or chlorine-based products
Acetone, nail polish remover, or paint thinner
All-purpose household sprays (Lysol, 409, standard Windex)
Abrasive pads, steel wool, or stiff scrub brushes
Silicone furniture polish (Pledge)

Warranty

This door is covered by the VDOM Exterior Door Limited Warranty and Claims Policy. The summary below is for the installer and the homeowner; the full policy document governs in all cases.

VDOM INC. is the warrantor for all sales channels.
The first remedy for an adjustment-type issue is a repair visit — on-site track, seal and hardware adjustment — before any replacement is considered.
There is no mandatory installer certification. The full product warranty applies regardless of who installs the door; performance claims are assessed in the context of how the unit was installed.
Cosmetic damage, mismatched shades and deformation must be reported before installation.
Damage from installation not performed to this guide, from blocked weep holes, from inverted sill orientation, or from a screen fitted to a two-rail frame is not covered.
Replacement units and parts are manufactured in Europe; plan for approximately a 4-month manufacture lead time on non-stock items.

Limited warranty and claims policy

Exterior entry doors — uPVC and aluminum systems

Warrantor VDOM INC. sales@vdom.us +1 (332) 777-7033

Warranty term 2 years from date of delivery

Applies to uPVC and Aluminum Exterior Entry Doors sold under the VDOM brand regardless of purchase channel

01Warranty coverage and term

VDOM INC. is the manufacturer and warrantor of all doors sold under the VDOM brand. This warranty is issued directly by VDOM INC. and applies regardless of where or how the product was purchased — whether through United Porte Inc., Amazon, Home Depot, or any other authorized dealer or retailer. The retailer or dealer is not a party to this warranty and has no authority to extend, modify, or limit its terms.

VDOM INC. warrants that each exterior entry door unit — including uPVC (metal-plastic) and aluminum door systems — will be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal residential use for a period of two (2) years from the date of delivery to the original purchaser.

Term	Two (2) years
Start date	Date of delivery, as documented by shipping or delivery records
End date	Twenty-four (24) calendar months from the start date
Transferability	Non-transferable. Applies to the original purchaser and original installation address only.
Purchase channel	Warranty applies equally whether purchased directly, through Amazon, Home Depot, United Porte Inc., or any other authorized channel.

uPVC Entry Doors: all multi-chamber PVC profile exterior door systems, with or without sidelites and transoms.
Aluminum Entry Doors: all aluminum-framed exterior door systems with powder coat, sublimation/laminated, wood veneer, or moisture-resistant MDF panel finishes.
Factory-installed glazing units (IGUs): where seal failure causes fogging between panes within the Warranty Period.
Hardware supplied with the door unit: multi-point locking mechanisms, hinges, cylinders, and handles included in the original package.

This Is a Limited Manufacturer Warranty

The rights and remedies set forth in this document are the complete warranty provided by VDOM INC. No dealer, retailer, or third party can extend or modify this warranty on behalf of VDOM INC. This warranty gives you specific legal rights; you may also have additional rights under applicable state law.

02What is covered

The following defects are covered when they arise under normal residential or light commercial use within the Warranty Period.

Warping, bowing, or twisting of the door panel or frame that renders the door inoperable or produces a gap exceeding 3/16 in. (5 mm) at any point around the perimeter seal, under normal indoor humidity (35–65% RH).
Delamination or separation of the PVC laminate layer from the profile substrate, where the affected area was not directly exposed to abnormal heat sources.
Cracking or fracture of the PVC profile under normal operating loads and temperatures.
Powder coat finish failure — peeling, bubbling, or adhesion loss — on aluminum doors not attributable to impact, chemical exposure, or abrasive cleaning.
Sublimation/laminated finish delamination on aluminum panels, in areas not exposed to sustained direct heat from external sources.
Premature surface corrosion of aluminum structural components visible through the finish, in non-coastal environments (more than 1 mile from ocean) within the Warranty Period.

Fogging, moisture, or condensation between panes of a factory-installed IGU, indicating seal failure, where the unit was not subjected to impact or improper cleaning.
Visible manufacturing defects in glass (inclusions, bubbles, distortion) not identified at delivery that affect normal use.

Failure of the multi-point locking mechanism to operate under normal use, where the failure is not caused by misuse or over-torquing.
Hinge failure under normal residential door traffic and normal door weight.
Cylinder or handle failure under normal use conditions.

Getting the most from your warranty

Submit claims within the Warranty Period. Claims for defects discovered after 24 months cannot be accepted.
Keep your delivery documentation. It establishes your warranty start date.
Read the VDOM Exterior Door Care Guide included with your door. Many common issues — stiff hardware, minor seal gaps — are addressed by simple maintenance described in that guide.
Contact VDOM first. Many issues that initially appear to be defects can be resolved quickly with guidance from our support team, without a formal claim.

03What is not covered

The following are excluded from warranty coverage. We have structured these exclusions to be clear and fair — they target situations where the product itself is not at fault, not situations where a reasonable person would expect warranty protection.

Impact damage: any crack, chip, fracture, or breakage caused by physical impact — including hail, windborne stones or debris, tools, vehicles, or any external object. These are not product defects.
Glass breakage — important clarification: glass that breaks due to windborne debris (stones, hail, branches), thermal shock from a concentrated external heat source (reflected sunlight from pools, mirrors, or adjacent windows), or any physical impact is not a manufacturing defect and is not covered. Glass breakage claims require photographs taken at or immediately after the event. VDOM INC. will review all glass breakage claims on a case-by-case basis; if manufacturing evidence is identified, coverage will apply.
Thermal stress fracture: glass units exposed to sustained reflected or concentrated heat without a protective canopy may experience internal stress. This is an environmental condition, not a product defect.

VDOM exterior doors are designed to perform when installed correctly per the VDOM Installation Guide. Installation errors create performance issues that are independent of product quality. The following installation-related conditions are excluded:

Missing or inadequate canopy/overhang: water infiltration, finish degradation, or moisture damage where no protective overhang of at least 12 in. (30 cm) was present above the door. A canopy is a required installation condition.
Incorrect rough opening preparation: damage or failure caused by an unstable, improperly sized, or inadequately prepared rough opening.
Sealing failures at installation: water or air infiltration where frame-to-opening seals, glazing perimeter sealant, or threshold seals were not completed at installation.

We understand that most customers use their own installer or a local contractor, and we support this fully. If a claim involves a performance issue (water, air, operability) and the installation method is unclear, VDOM INC. will offer a Repair Visit (see Section 7) to assess the situation in person before making a warranty determination — rather than denying the claim based on installer status alone.

Chemical damage: finish or seal damage from bleach, ammonia, pressure washers, steam cleaners, acetone, paint thinner, or other prohibited cleaning agents. See the VDOM Exterior Door Care Guide.
Neglect: damage resulting from failure to maintain seals, weatherstripping, or hardware when visible deterioration was present and unaddressed.
Unauthorized modifications: alterations, repainting, hardware substitution, or application of films, tints, or coatings without written approval from VDOM INC.

Ceramic and porcelain panel cracking: panels with ceramic or porcelain tile inserts may crack if hardware fasteners are overtightened against the panel face. Maximum fastener torque adjacent to ceramic surfaces is 2.0 Nm (18 in-lbs). Damage from over-torquing is not a manufacturing defect.
Normal wear: minor surface scratches, gradual UV color shift on dark profiles without canopy shading, and weatherstripping compression set after extended service are normal wear, not defects.
Surface condensation: condensation on exterior glass in humid or cold conditions is a normal weather phenomenon. Interior surface condensation may indicate insufficient ventilation in the building.
Non-VDOM components: hardware, sealants, or glazing not supplied by VDOM INC. as part of the original door unit.
Coastal environments: installations within 1 mile (1.6 km) of the ocean, unless specific marine-grade hardware was ordered.
Extreme weather events: damage from hurricane, tornado, flood, hail, fire, lightning, or other acts of nature.

04Installation — VDOM recommended installers

Proper installation is essential for the door to perform as designed. VDOM INC. does not require the use of any specific installer as a condition of warranty coverage. However, we strongly recommend working with an installer who is familiar with European-standard door systems — the installation requirements for VDOM doors differ from standard US door products in several important ways.

United Porte Inc. provides installation services in selected US markets. United Porte installers have hands-on experience with VDOM uPVC and aluminum door systems and follow the VDOM Installation Checklist on every job. If installation by United Porte is available in your area, we recommend it — not because it is required for warranty coverage, but because it tends to produce the best outcome and makes any warranty evaluation straightforward.

To inquire about installation availability in your area, contact us at sales@vdom.us or +1 (332) 777-7033.

VDOM exterior doors can be installed by the homeowner or any qualified contractor. Full warranty coverage on product defects applies regardless of who installs the door. There is no warranty penalty for self-installation or use of a third-party contractor.

For best results — regardless of who installs

Follow the VDOM Installation Guide included with the door. It covers rough opening requirements, support block placement, fastening spacing, sealing sequence, and hardware torque limits.
Complete the Installation Checklist (Appendix A) and keep a copy. If you ever need to make a warranty claim involving a performance issue, having documented installation details makes evaluation faster and avoids back-and-forth.
Install a protective canopy or overhang (minimum 12 in. / 30 cm projection) above the door. This is the single most impactful step you can take for long-term door performance.
For ceramic or porcelain panel doors: do not use a power driver for final hardware tightening. Maximum torque on fasteners adjacent to the ceramic surface is 2.0 Nm (18 in-lbs). Use a hand screwdriver.

For claims involving product defects (delamination, hardware failure, glass seal failure, etc.), installation method has no effect on coverage. These are manufacturing issues and are evaluated the same way regardless of who installed the door.

For claims involving performance issues that could be caused by either a product defect or an installation condition — such as water infiltration, air leakage, or door alignment — VDOM INC. will request installation documentation and, where practical, offer a Repair Visit (Section 7.2) to assess the issue in person before making a final determination.

Claim type	Installation dependent?
Structural material defect (delamination, PVC crack, finish failure)	No — covered regardless of installer
Hardware/mechanism failure under normal use	No — covered regardless of installer
IGU fogging / glass seal failure	No — covered regardless of installer
Water infiltration / air leakage	Yes — will be assessed in context of installation documentation and/or site visit
Door misalignment / binding	Yes — assessed in context of installation; minor issues often resolved by Repair Visit
Damage from prohibited cleaning agents or impact	No — excluded regardless of installer

05Technical performance standards

VDOM exterior doors are designed to meet the following performance parameters when properly installed. Each door model's Technical Data Sheet, available at www.vdom.us, specifies exact ratings for that unit.

Parameter	Value / Note
Test Standard	ASTM E283
Maximum Air Leakage	0.30 cfm/ft² at 1.57 psf (75 Pa) — per AAMA 101/I.S.2/A440
Field Note	Achieved with weatherstripping and threshold seal in serviceable condition. Replace seals if compressed or cracked — see Care Guide.

Parameter	Value / Note
Test Standard	ASTM E331
Rated Pressure Resistance	Per model Technical Data Sheet (minimum 2.86 psf / 137 Pa for standard models)
Field Note	Performance requires continuous frame-to-opening sealing and intact glazing perimeter sealant. A canopy or overhang above the door is required.

Parameter	Value / Note
U-Factor	Per model Technical Data Sheet (typical range 0.28–0.38 Btu/hr·ft²·°F for insulated systems)
Condensation on exterior glass	Normal in humid or cold conditions. Not a defect
Condensation on interior frame	May occur in extreme cold (below −4°F / −20°C) or with very high indoor humidity. Not a manufacturing defect.

Parameter	Value / Note
Canopy / Overhang	Required: minimum 12 in. (30 cm) projection beyond the door face
Rough Opening Clearance	1/2 in. (12 mm) per side and at head — see Installation Guide
Sidelite Panel Width	Per model Technical Data Sheet
Threshold Modification	Field modification of threshold height exceeding 1/4 in. (6 mm) voids threshold seal performance

Maximum fastener torque on ceramic/porcelain panel doors: 2.0 Nm / 18 in-lbs

Ceramic tile inserts will crack under excessive fastener torque. Do not use a power driver (impact driver or drill) for final tightening of any hardware adjacent to the ceramic surface.
Use a hand screwdriver or a torque screwdriver set to 2.0 Nm maximum.
Ceramic cracking caused by over-torquing is not a manufacturing defect and is not covered under this warranty.

06How to submit a warranty claim

All warranty claims must be submitted in writing. Verbal or informal claims communicated by phone call or social media message do not constitute a formal warranty submission.

Many reported issues can be resolved without a formal warranty claim. Before submitting, we encourage you to:

Read the Care Guide — the answer to stiff hardware, minor condensation, or surface marks is often a simple maintenance step.
Contact VDOM support — call or email us. Our team can often diagnose an issue from photos and walk you through a quick fix, saving you and us the time of a formal claim process.
Check hardware adjustment — hinges on VDOM doors are 3-way adjustable. Doors that bind or have uneven gaps can often be corrected in 10 minutes without any parts replacement.

Email your claim: send the completed Claim Form (Appendix B) to sales@vdom.us with subject line: WARRANTY CLAIM – [Order Number].
Acknowledgment: VDOM INC. will acknowledge receipt within 48 business hours.
Evaluation: our team will review documentation and photographs. We will contact you if additional information is needed. Simple claims are typically evaluated within 5–10 business days.
Remedy determination: a written determination will be issued specifying the outcome and next steps.
Resolution: see Section 7 for remedy options and timelines.

Completed VDOM Warranty Claim Form (Appendix B).
Proof of purchase: order number, invoice, or purchase confirmation.
Proof of delivery date: delivery receipt or shipping confirmation.
Photographs: minimum four photos showing (a) full door exterior, (b) full door interior, (c) close-up of the defect, (d) wider context of the defect area.
For glass breakage: photos taken at or immediately after the event are required. Please describe the circumstances of discovery in detail on the Claim Form.
For ceramic panel cracking: describe the tools and procedure used during hardware installation.
Installation documentation if available: completed Checklist (Appendix A) or installer's name and contact. This is helpful but not required.

07Claim Evaluation, remedies, and timeline

VDOM INC. applies a consistent evaluation process to all claims. Outcomes are determined by the documentation and the terms of this warranty. Our goal is to resolve every legitimate claim fairly and as quickly as possible.

When a claim is approved, VDOM INC. will select the most appropriate remedy from the following, at its sole discretion:

Repair visit — a VDOM or United Porte technician visits the installation site to assess and, where possible, resolve the issue on the spot. This is often the fastest remedy and covers a wide range of issues: hardware adjustment, hinge adjustment, additional weatherstripping, seal touch-up, cylinder re-seating, or other minor repairs that do not require new parts. A Repair Visit will be offered as the first remedy where it has a reasonable probability of resolving the issue.
Parts replacement — VDOM INC. supplies replacement parts (glass unit, hardware component, panel section, frame component, weatherseal, or other component). For standard in-stock parts, these can typically be dispatched within 2–4 weeks of claim approval. Installation of replaced parts is the customer's responsibility unless a Repair Visit is arranged.
Full door replacement — in cases where the defect is not repairable and no compatible replacement part is available, VDOM INC. will replace the complete door unit with one of equal or greater specification. The replacement unit carries the remainder of the original Warranty Period or 90 days from installation, whichever is longer.

Repair Visit — how it works

Available in service areas covered by United Porte Inc. Contact us to confirm availability for your location.
Scheduling: VDOM INC. will contact you within 5 business days of claim approval to arrange a visit.
What a Repair Visit can resolve: hinge adjustment (binding, uneven gaps), weatherseal addition or replacement, hardware re-alignment, lock mechanism adjustment, cylinder re-seating, threshold adjustment, minor sealant repair.
What a Repair Visit cannot resolve: structural defects requiring new components, glass unit replacement, or finish defects requiring panel replacement. These proceed to Parts Replacement.
No additional cost to the customer for an approved Repair Visit under warranty.

Milestone	Target Timeframe
Claim acknowledged	Within 48 business hours of complete submission
Evaluation decision	Within 10 business days for standard claims
Repair Visit scheduling	Within 5 business days of claim approval (where available)
Parts replacement — in-stock components	2–4 weeks from claim approval
Parts replacement — manufactured-to-order components from Europe	Up to 4 calendar months from claim approval
Full door replacement	Up to 4 calendar months, depending on model and production schedule

Why some replacements take up to 4 months

VDOM doors are manufactured to order in Europe. Replacement panels, glazing units, and complete doors in nonstandard configurations are not held in domestic US inventory.

When a replacement component must be manufactured and shipped from Europe, 4 months is a realistic and honest timeline. We will provide a written estimated delivery date within 5 business days of claim approval, and will update you if that date changes.

We consider a claim open and in progress until the approved remedy is delivered and the issue is resolved.

08Limitation of liability

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, VDOM INC.'S ENTIRE LIABILITY UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS LIMITED TO THE REMEDIES DESCRIBED IN SECTION 7. VDOM INC. SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR:

Any incidental, consequential, indirect, special, or punitive damages, including loss of use, loss of revenue, property damage to the building interior or envelope, or any other losses arising from door failure, regardless of whether VDOM INC. was advised of the possibility of such damages.
The cost of removal or reinstallation of non-VDOM finishes, structures, or components that must be accessed to perform warranty repair.
Delays in repair or replacement attributable to manufacturing and international shipping lead times as described in Section 7.3.

Some states do not allow exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, or place limits on how long implied warranties last. These limitations may not apply to you in full. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights that vary by state.

09Governing law and dispute resolution

This warranty is governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to its conflict of law principles. Any dispute arising from this warranty that cannot be resolved through direct communication will be submitted to binding arbitration administered by the American Arbitration Association (AAA) under its Consumer Arbitration Rules, in Richmond County, New York. The arbitrator's decision is final and binding. Either party may seek injunctive or equitable relief in a court of competent jurisdiction. Nothing in this warranty limits rights the purchaser may have under applicable consumer protection laws.

Installation checklist (Appendix A) Download installation checklist

Installation checklist

Keep a completed copy of this checklist for your records. If you ever submit a warranty claim involving a performance issue, this documentation will help us evaluate it quickly. A separate copy may be submitted with a warranty claim.

Warranty claim form (Appendix B) Download warranty claim form

Warranty claim form

Complete all fields. Incomplete forms will be returned. Attach photographs before sending.
Email to: sales@vdom.us
Subject line: WARRANTY CLAIM – [Order Number]

FAQ

What does "Right Door Main Set" mean?

Stand inside the building and look at the closed door. If the active panel — the one with the full lever handle and the cylinder with keys — is the right-hand panel, the unit is a Right Door Main Set. It runs on the second rail. The left panel then has a flush pull only and does not lock. A Left Door Main Set is the mirror image.

Is the screen included?

No. The screen is not part of the standard delivery and is ordered separately, either with the door or later.

We already installed the door. Can we still add a screen?

Only if the frame has the third rail. Slide both panels to one side, look down into the sill and count the channels: a third channel on the interior side of the two panel channels is the screen rail. If there are only two channels, a sliding screen cannot be added.

Can the passive panel be locked?

No. The passive panel is supplied with a flush pull only and has no cylinder. Only the active panel locks.

Can we swap which side is the active panel after delivery?

No. The main set is set at manufacture: the lock mechanism is in one panel and the keeps are machined into the matching jamb. Confirm the main set on the order confirmation before installation begins.

Why must the handle pin and the cylinder bolt be cut?

Both are supplied over-length to cover a range of panel thicknesses. The pin is cut to 80 mm / 3" and the cylinder fixing bolt to 45 mm / 1 3/4". An untrimmed pin keeps the exterior handle from seating flush, and an untrimmed bolt cannot be tightened into the cylinder clamp.

The panels slide heavily. What is the first thing to check?

The sill channel. Grit in the channel is the usual cause. After cleaning, check that no fastener has been over-tightened and bowed the profile inward, and that the support blocks under the sill are all in place.

Water is standing in the sill after rain. Is that a defect?

Check the weep holes first. If they are blocked with foam, sealant or debris, or if the sill profile was installed with the holes facing the interior, water cannot drain. The orientation must be confirmed before the frame is foamed in.