How to Install a Door

Installing a new door involves various considerations. Experts advise then that homeowners come up with a specific plan first which should include the right measurements and type of door. Careful consideration should also be made on whether you want to create a new door or replace your old one at home.

Today, homeowners have a choice between getting a pre-hung door and just purchasing a standard door which still requires hinges and a door knob. The major difference between the two is that the pre-hung type already comes with hinges, door jambs and sill. For this type of door, the jambs need to be different for plaster-covered walls and for those covered with drywall. And when installed, the pre-hung style usually has jambs that are wider than the rough frame and extends on both sides.

Assuming that you’ve decided on installing a pre-hung door, first get the proper measurements – length and width -- of your door opening. If you’ll be replacing an old door, do remove beforehand the hinges, trims and the jambs before measuring.

Secondly, make sure that the wall you will be attaching the door to is thick enough. Remember to choose jambs that are thicker than the wall and that should fit well to both sides. If you’re uncertain about this part, ask the advice of a professional or a carpenter you know to ensure that you’re ordering the right one.

Once you have your pre-hung door, the next thing to do is to install it at the rough opening. It would be best if you ask your spouse or another adult in your house to assist you in holding the door at the other end.

This may take some adjustments before the door is fitted properly to the wall. You may need to push shims in the center of the jambs and studs to keep the door in place. Use a level to check if your door is straight and level at the jambs.

If, for instance, the new flooring has not been completed, use blocks to raise the side jambs to your preferred level. You wouldn’t want to cut any portion of your new door, would you?

It is vital to ensure that the new door fits properly and squarely in the opening before you nail it in place. The jambs should also be plumb on both sides as well as on the front and back.

When nailing the door, do the side where the hinges are located first. You may need to shim the lower side before nailing through the jamb half way. Follow the same steps for the middle and top portions and on the other side. Do check that the upper jamb part is also level.

Next step is to test the door by opening and closing it. Keep in mind that the space between the edges of the door and jambs are the same from 1/16 to 1/18 inch. Continue to make adjustments if there’s a problem before you finally finish nailing completely.

Clean the jamb area by cutting off the shims and then install your door casing.