If you’re looking to add style and function to your shed, you’ve probably already heard of ledge brace doors. These are doors that are framed around the edges with a brace or ledge in between. They’re a great choice for small or large sheds, as they can look great in any decor. There are several different styles and variations available.
Framed ledged and braced shed doors
Framed ledged and braced doors have a tongue and groove construction, which makes them ideal for a shed. They are also made with two screws per joint, but not parallel to each other, which reinforces the joint. Depending on your requirements, you can buy them with a rounded edge, or leave them unfinished to suit your needs.
Framed ledged and braced doors have thick vertical frame members, giving them additional strength and preventing them from warping. Redwood FLB shed doors, for example, are crafted from high quality European Redwood, and are tongue and groove faced. If you don’t want to use a redwood door, you can also opt for a ply or MDF covering.
Lower rails
Lower rails are made of thinner stock than stiles. The width of the planking should match the width of the rails. TheĀ ledge brace doors bottom rails should not be trimmed for the length of the stiles. The length of the top and bottom rails should be measured from the top of the rebate in the top rail to the bottom of the stiles. The thickness of the stiles should be the same. The lower rails should have rebates on both sides of their upper and lower rails. It is important to check the depth of the rebates as they will determine the flatness of the finished door.
Next, measure and cut the boards for the ledge and brace doors. The boards should be approximately one third the width of the door and the tongue and grooves should be flush. Once the boards are cut, use a nylon hammer to level them. Once the boards have been leveled, make rebates in the top rail and the two stiles.
Bevelled edges
Bevelled edges are a feature of ledge brace doors. This style of door is made from three evenly spaced ledges and two braces between. These braces are held in place by screws or nails. In addition to their strength, these braces have a gap of about 20mm between the ledges and the door, allowing you to use traditional hinges on the door.
When painting ledge and brace doors, always remember to start with a base coat. This provides a stable base for the top coat and helps it bond to the door surface. Also, a high-build primer can be used to fill in small cracks or splits.
Timber screws
When making a ledge and brace door, there are several steps to follow. First, you must cut the ledges and braces to the right size and width. Make sure the ledges are cut flush with the top rail and bottom rail. You should also cut rebates into the top rail and both stiles, using a nylon hammer.
Then, use a screw in each end of the ledge. This will give the door more stability and strength. However, make sure to keep the nails short – longer nails can cause a point to break off!