How to install an Andersen® footbolt

This guide is for installing an Andersen® footbolt on a gliding or sliding door. The bolt mounts on the inside moving panel and drops a rod into the sill so the panel cannot slide.

Shop gliding door footbolts or send a photo if you are not sure which finish or series you have.

Install the footbolt

1. Close the door and place the bolt

Close the door or window all the way so it is in the locked position. Place the footbolt flush against the edge of the inside moving door or pane so it sits perpendicular to the floor.

2. Set the rod height

With the rod retracted, place the footbolt so the bottom of the rod is 3/32" above the sill.

3. Check clearance from the glass

Measure from the door edge where you placed the bolt to the edge of the glass in the door. That distance must be more than 3/4". If it is not, you may need shorter screws than the ones included so you do not drill into glass.

Glass typically extends 1/2" deeper into a door or window than you can see. The included screws install 1/4" deep.

4. Drill the mounting holes and attach the bolt

With a 3/32" drill bit, drill holes 1/4" deep where the screw holes sit when the lock is in position. Insert the screws and securely affix the bolt to the sliding door.

5. Mark the sill

Keeping the door or window completely shut, lightly tap the top of the footbolt with a hammer so the rod leaves an indentation on the sill. That mark is where you will drill the hole for the rod.

6. Drill the sill hole and set the grommet

Release the rod and remove the moving door. With a 1/2" drill bit, drill a hole for the rod to extend into. Place the plastic grommet included with your footbolt into the hole, then put the door back in its tracks.

Alternative: mark the screw holes on the door and, while holding the bolt carefully in place, mark where the rod meets the sill. Do not install the lock until after all the holes are drilled. Measurements have to be exact if you skip removing the door.

You can use the same steps for an open vent position instead of a fully locked position. Open the door to the vent you want, then drill the sill hole at that point.

Confirm the part before you order

Match the footbolt to your door series and finish. Parts and Hardware stocks Andersen® gliding door footbolts. If the stamped numbers are worn off, send a photo to the Kansas City team.