Fitting a door can be difficult; if you don’t do it correctly, you may realize that the door isn’t level or that you can’t open and close it smoothly. Therefore, you should be aware of the essential procedures to ensure the project’s success. However, if you understand what you’re doing, have the necessary tools, and be cautious to complete each step correctly, most DIY-skilled individuals should be able to accomplish the task. Alternatively, you can get a door installation professional, like the door installation made easy. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to install your door.
Essential items you’ll need to install a door
To accomplish this project, you will need;
- A door
- Putty blade
- Nails
- Fastens
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
- Frame
- Drill machine
- Shims
- Pry bar
Here is an overview of the various simple door installation steps
Step 1: Eliminate the old door
If the previous door and its framing are still present, it should be removed first. Remove the lock and hinge screws before lifting the door out of the frame. Remove the jambs and the header, then scrape off the old trim. What is left is the rough opening, which is a hole in the wall. Insert the blade between the pry bar and the wall. This will prevent damage to the wall.
Step 2: Take the measurements of the rough opening and level it
If possible, before purchasing a new door, it is preferable to measure the rough opening. Thus, you can ensure that the door you purchase has the exact dimensions. Measure both the height and width of the rough opening. Check the rough opening’s sides for levelness.
Step 3: Check the sill
Check the sill to make sure that your door will fit properly. If the floor is not level, the door will not open or close smoothly. If the floor isn’t level, lift the leveling equipment by sliding wooden shims beneath the bottom end until it is leveled. Determine the elevation of the shims you’ll require.
Step 4: Adjust the jamb based on your measurements.
Adjusting the door jamb is the next step. Care must be taken to cut the right jamb. It should be shortened on the edge where the sill will be higher.
Step 5: Utilize shims to secure the frame.
Using shims, install the frame in place. Set a wooden wedge on the door’s hinge side and another behind the door’s hinge contact in the door frame. Next, add extra shims at different spots around the frame to keep the door firmly in position. Continue adjusting until the frame is level.
Step 6: Install the frame using screws.
Utilize screws at each area where shims were fitted to fasten the entire piece. Also, you can place shims around the hinges. This enables you to subsequently screw them in with larger screws, granting them additional strength and rigidity.
Step 7: Install and test the door.
Mount the new door on the hinges, if necessary, using shims for support. Tap the hinge pins into place with a hammer. You may now test the installed door to determine whether it operates smoothly.
Step 8: Adjust the trim and finalize.
If your door is properly installed and operates as anticipated, you can now install the trim and complete the project. As required, carefully sand the trim and then paint it. If you must also install the doorknob, you can do that now.
Wrapping up
There is no justification why you shouldn’t be able to install a door, provided you know what you’re doing and follow each of the highlighted steps precisely. If you’ve done everything properly, there shouldn’t be any issues with opening or closing. Additionally, you will have saved money by not hiring an expert.