Step 1: Verify the Door Cutout
Before handling the lite kit components, verify that the door cutout matches the lite kit dimensions.
• Measure the cutout width and height. Compare these measurements to the lite kit specifications. The cutout must match the kit’s required opening size, which is typically the glass size plus the overlap dimension specified by the manufacturer.
• Check that the cutout edges are clean and free of burrs. If the cutout has rough or sharp edges, smooth them with a deburring tool or file. Rough edges can damage glazing tape and prevent a proper seal.
• Verify that the cutout is square by measuring diagonally from corner to corner. Both diagonal measurements should be equal. An out-of-square cutout will cause the bezel frame to sit unevenly.
If the door was ordered from CDF with a lite kit, the cutout is factory-prepared to the correct dimensions during fabrication. For retrofit installations, confirm the cutout was made to the lite kit manufacturer’s specifications.
Step 2: Separate the Lite Kit Components
Unpack the lite kit and identify the components. A standard lite kit includes:
• Two bezel halves (interior frame and exterior frame)
• One tempered glass panel (or fire-rated glass if specified)
• Glazing tape or compression gaskets
• Machine screws for assembly
Inspect each component for damage before proceeding. Check the glass for chips or cracks, particularly along the edges. Tempered glass is strong across its face but is vulnerable at its corners and edges. Do not install damaged glass.
Step 3: Apply Glazing Tape to the First Bezel Half
Glazing tape creates the seal between the glass and the bezel frame. Apply it before inserting the glass.
• Clean the bezel’s glass-contact surface with a clean cloth to remove dust, oil, or debris. Glazing tape adheres poorly to contaminated surfaces.
• Apply a continuous strip of glazing tape around the full perimeter of the bezel’s glass rabbet (the recessed ledge where the glass sits). Do not leave gaps at the corners.
• Press the tape firmly into place. The tape should sit flat against the bezel surface without bunching or overlapping.
If the lite kit uses compression gaskets instead of glazing tape, seat the gasket into the bezel channel according to the gasket profile. Compression gaskets snap or press into a dedicated groove in the bezel.
Step 4: Position the First Bezel and Glass on the Door
With glazing tape applied to the first bezel half:
• Hold the first bezel half against one face of the door, centered over the cutout. The screw holes in the bezel must align with the corresponding holes around the cutout perimeter.
• Place the tempered glass panel onto the glazing tape, centered within the bezel frame. The glass should rest flat against the tape with even margins on all sides.
• Press the glass gently but firmly into the glazing tape to create initial adhesion. Do not force or impact the glass.
Handle tempered glass with care. While tempered glass is significantly stronger than standard glass across its face, it is vulnerable at its corners and edges. Avoid striking the glass edges against the door or bezel frame during positioning.
Step 5: Apply Glazing Tape to the Second Bezel Half
Repeat the glazing tape application on the second bezel half, following the same procedure as Step 3. Clean the surface, apply a continuous strip of tape around the full perimeter, and press it firmly into place. If using compression gaskets, seat the gasket into the second bezel’s channel.
Step 6: Secure the Second Bezel Half
The second bezel half clamps against the opposite face of the door, sandwiching the glass between the two bezel halves.
• Position the second bezel half on the opposite side of the door, aligning it with the first bezel. The screw holes on both halves must align through the door.
• Insert the machine screws through the second bezel half and into the threaded holes or clips on the first bezel half.
• Tighten the screws in a star pattern (alternating opposite corners, then sides) rather than sequentially around the perimeter. This ensures even clamping pressure on the glass and prevents the bezel from shifting during assembly.
• Tighten each screw firmly but do not overtighten. Excessive torque can crack the glass, deform the bezel, or strip the screw threads. The bezel should sit flush against the door face on both sides with the glass held securely in place.
Step 7: Inspect the Completed Installation
After securing both bezel halves, perform a final inspection.
• Check that both bezel halves sit flush against the door face with no gaps.
• Verify that the glass is centered within the frame with even margins on all sides.
• Confirm all screws are secure and the bezel does not move or rattle when the door is operated.
• Inspect the glazing seal around the full perimeter. There should be no visible gaps between the glass and the bezel frame.
• Clean the glass on both sides with a clean cloth to remove fingerprints and installation residue.
For fire-rated lite kits, verify that all fire-rated labels are intact and visible after installation. Fire-rated labels must not be removed, covered, or painted over.
