View Full Version : How to Build an Arch
cinj88
Apr 8, 2009, 11:02 AM
Hi,
I would like to replace sliding glass doors (standard) and build an interior archway. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Or any templates. Thanks,Cin
KISS
Apr 8, 2009, 12:35 PM
You never said how big.
A string, nail and a pencil can basically lay it out with the circle formulas and cut with a jigsaw and sand.
Moulding can also be done the same way.
What becomes difficult is if the arch has tickness.
You can bend some woods by by soaking it first in water.
21boat
Apr 8, 2009, 05:47 PM
To add here there is a thing called a "Flat" to and arch. What the flat does is change the arc of the arch. It makes a flatter arch as opposed to a perfect half circle of an arch. Some become so flat in the trades its called a "dog bone" arch because the arc is very flat and long looking. Like a dog bone split long ways.
They way to change the 'flat" of the arch is move the start position of the height before you string the arch tracing it. lay to boards on the ground a distance from each other and find center on that opening at the ends on the boards. Trace that perfect half arch. Now measure down lets say 4" down from each tips of the board. Find same center and stings/pencil from that point and trace arch. See how the arch is flatter. That's the flat I'm talking about. So if we say and Arch on the job site with a 4" flat. We measure the 4" inches down from where the arch is going to sit on the columns/studs and that's the 'look" requested for that project.
Your Archway will be small on the curves with a lot of flat depending on where you start it. The 6 foot opening to be a true arch needs height to be a perfect circle. Once you establish the corner Arch's we usually nail a stop block on jambs and headers and the cut a piece of 1/4 luan and force it into one stop block until desired arch looks good and nail that stop point after the length cut and re arch it nail one side bend and nail other end . Add scabs behind that to stiffen it. Now drywall corner bead it. Snip bead every inch or so to the bead edge so it can be bent to fit arch.
cinj88
Apr 18, 2009, 11:19 PM
New at this so not sure if I am replying right. The space where the arch would be is about 6 and 1/2 ft long. It would replace a standard size sliding glass door. Thanks.
21boat
Apr 19, 2009, 01:04 AM
Your reply is exactly at the right spot.
I hope our answerers helped you on the arch and flats on an arch.
If there are any more questions on it feel free to re post as you did above and someone here will help you out..
Regards
lfrdzvsqz
Apr 30, 2009, 09:28 AM
Make sure to see if there's any electrical above or around your new work area... (light switches etc.)
Alway's wear the proper safety gear and think safety before,during,and even after any project. You can find arch building ideas at your local Library.
shaugy
May 7, 2009, 09:53 AM
An arch interior door is easily done , I ussually use plywood for the face( in your framing,attach to studs) and 1/4" sheetroc in the curved part of arch. You will be amazed how quick and easy it is!