Foundation Plate Size Chart
Model
Width
FP5
5"
FP8
8"
FP11
11"
FP14
14"
3) How to Reduce Inside Width of Areaway
Select foundation plates that are wide enough to cover the top of
the foundation and reduce the width of the areaway for proper fit
of the Bilco Door. Figure - 4 shows an areaway with 8" sidewalls
and 60" inside width. Figure - 5 shows two 11" foundation plates
used to reduce the inside width to 54". If necessary, you can use
a different width foundation plate on each sidewall for proper fit.
Cut the foundation plates to the proper length, and drill 9/32"
holes, at least 6" from the inside edge of the foundation plate,
every 18". Change to a 1/4" carbide tipped masonry drill bit and
use the holes in the foundation plates as a guide to drill 1/4" x 2-
1/4" holes in the foundation. Anchor foundation plates to solid,
level masonry with 1/4" nail-in anchors provided in the door hard-
ware package. If the foundation plates overhang the foundation by
more than 6", fasten pressure treated wood or angle iron to the
inside of the masonry foundation so that it supports the entire
length of foundation plate. Assemble the door frame per SECTION
C, Step - 1. Position frame on firmly anchored foundation plates
per Step - 2. Verify that door frame is level and square. Using
predrilled holes in door frame as a guide, drill 9/32" holes in the
foundation plates using a metal drill bit. Apply bead of silicone
caulking compound under door frame where it meets foundation
plates and around each anchor hole. Anchor door frame to founda-
tion plates using 1/4" x 1/2" bolts and 1/4" hex nuts (not supplied).
4) How to Install When Areaway is in a Corner With One Side
Supported by House
Select a foundation plate wide enough to allow the door leaf to
open completely and safety latch to engage. Cut foundation plate
to length, drill 9/32" holes every 18" in 1-3/4" flange, and place it
against house with 1-3/4" flange facing up, per Figure - 6. Be sure
that foundation plate is level with opposite areaway sidewall. Mark
hole locations on house foundation. If necessary remove siding so
that foundation plate can be anchored directly to house foundation
or sheathing. Drill 1/4" x 1-1/2" deep holes in house foundation.
Fasten foundation plate to house foundation through 1-3/4"
upturned flange. For masonry construction, use 1/4" x 1-1/2"
masonry lags and shields (purchased separately). For wood con-
struction, use wood screws. Caulk foundation plate where it meets
house with silicone caulk (not supplied). Go to SECTION C for
Door Assembly and Installation Instructions.
Painting Instructions
IMPORTANT: Door must be painted within forty-five (45)
days of installation. The Bilco Basement Door and optional
extension panels are supplied with a uniform baked-on
Sherwin-Williams primer finish. See paint label on interior of
the door leaf or go to www.bilco.com for complete painting
instructions. Optional stair stringers and foundation plates
are galvanized steel but can be painted for aesthetic purpos-
es. If painted, a metal primer must be used prior to applying
the finish coat of paint.
Rubber Bumper Installation
IMPORTANT: Use rubber bumpers to protect door finish.
After the finish paint has dried, install two rubber bumpers in
the holes on the outside edge of each door. Bumpers are
installed by twisting the small end into the hole until it is fully
seated. Bumpers cushion the doors in the open position and
protect the finish paint.
Length
Height
84"
1-3/4"
84"
1-3/4"
84"
1-3/4"
84"
1-3/4"
FIGURE - 3
8"
FIGURE - 4
11"
FIGURE - 5
FIGURE - 6
Page 3
Foundation Plate
76"
8"
60"
76
11"
"
54"
