How to Install an Irvine Pleated Folding Door in Your RV
Pleated folding doors are a lightweight, space-saving solution that add privacy without the swing clearance of a traditional door—perfect for tight RV hallways, bedrooms, or bathrooms. The Irvine Shade & Door kit arrives almost ready to go; you’ll just need a few common tools and an hour or so of hands-on time. Follow the steps below for a smooth, rattle-free install that will last for seasons of travel.
What Comes in the Box
- Pleated door panel with top & bottom glides pre-attached
- Top track (aluminum)
- Bottom track (vinyl)
- Magnet jamb with strike plate
- Top stop block
- Handle & mounting screws
- Decorative end caps
- #8 x ½" pan-head screws
Tools You’ll Need
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Fine-tooth hacksaw or miter saw (for trimming tracks)
- Drill/driver with #2 square or Phillips bit
- 1/8" drill bit for pilot holes
- Safety glasses & file or sandpaper (to de-burr cuts)
Step-by-Step Installation
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Measure the Doorway
Measure the width of the opening at the top, center, and bottom; use the narrowest dimension. Measure the height on both sides; use the shorter dimension. Record these numbers—you’ll trim the tracks to the width only. The door height is factory-set.
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Trim the Tracks
Subtract 1/8" from the opening width to allow easy movement, then mark that length on the top and bottom tracks. Cut square using a fine-tooth saw. De-burr the edges so the glides won’t snag.
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Choose Door Swing Direction
The pleated door can open to the left or right. Place the magnet side on the wall you want the door to latch against, making sure the handle faces outward.
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Load the Door into the Tracks
With the door fully stacked, feed the nylon top glides into the top track and the bottom glides into the bottom track. Keep the pleats facing the same direction so the door doesn’t twist.
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Mount the Top Track
Hold the loaded top track flush with the head of the opening and 1/16"–1/8" back from the front edge for a clean look. Pre-drill pilot holes every 12"–16" and secure with the provided #8 screws. Confirm the track is level—this is critical for smooth operation.
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Mount the Bottom Track
Close the door so it hangs plumb, then swing the bottom track against the floor or threshold under the top track. Mark its position, pre-drill, and screw it down. Make sure it is perfectly in line with the top track; even a slight offset can cause binding.
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Install the Magnet Jamb
Extend the door to the closed position. Fit the magnetic jamb tight against the pleated panel. Plumb with a level, pre-drill, and fasten with screws through every slot. The magnet should engage the strike plate the entire height of the door.
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Add the Top Stop Block
Slide the supplied stop into the top track on the magnet side. With the door closed, slide the stop snug against the leading glide and tighten its set screw. This prevents the door from over-compressing and protects the pleats during travel.
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Attach the Handle & End Caps
Screw the handle into the pre-drilled holes on the lead stile. Push the decorative end caps onto both ends of each track to hide raw edges and screws.
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Test & Fine-Tune
Open and close the door several times. It should glide effortlessly and seal firmly at the magnet. If it drags, loosen the problem area, shim the track, and re-tighten. A quick shot of dry silicone spray in the tracks can further smooth operation.
Pro Tips
- Measure twice, cut once. You can always shorten a track, but you can’t add material back.
- Deburr track cuts to prevent premature wear on the nylon glides.
- If installing over vinyl or laminate flooring, drill pilot holes just deep enough to avoid piercing any wiring or plumbing beneath.
- Traveling on bumpy roads? Close the door and engage the magnet to keep the pleats from shifting.
Maintenance at a Glance
- Vacuum the pleats gently with a brush attachment every few trips to keep dust from gathering.
- Wipe tracks with a damp cloth; avoid oil-based lubricants that can attract debris.
- If a glide becomes chipped, replacements are inexpensive and slide in from either end of the track.
Frequently Asked Questions (SEO-Friendly)
Can I install an Irvine pleated RV door on either the left or right side?
Yes. The pleated door is fully reversible. Simply choose which side you want the magnet jamb on before loading the door into the tracks.
How do I shorten an Irvine RV pleated door if my opening is not as tall?
The height of pleated doors is factory-set and cannot be altered without damaging the pleats. Order a door that matches your finished opening height for best results.
What is the recommended clearance when cutting the top and bottom tracks?
Trim each track to the opening width minus roughly 1/8". This provides enough clearance for smooth movement without visible gaps.
Why does my pleated door stick when opening?
Sticking usually points to a track that isn’t level, screws driven too tight, or burrs left after cutting. Loosen, realign, and deburr as needed—then apply a dry silicone spray.
How do I keep the door from opening while traveling?
Close the door fully and ensure the magnets latch. For extra security, add a small strip of Velcro or a travel latch to hold the lead stile in place on rough roads.
Installing an Irvine pleated door is one of the quickest ways to refresh the functionality and style of your RV interior. With the right measurements, careful trimming, and proper alignment, you’ll enjoy effortless privacy for years to come.
