How to Install a New Door

Interior door

Remodeling your home is increasingly popular these days, both with homeowners looking to improve the look of their homes, and those looking to sell. One simple way to significantly improve the look of a home is to replace old, worn-out doors with newer models. The easiest way to replace a door in the home is to use a pre-hung unit, available at any home improvement store. These pre-hung units can be installed in just a few hours and have a much lower margin for error than separate door and frame combinations.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Pre-hung door
• Hammer
• Nails
• Level
• Wooden shims
• Caulk
• Wood trim (typically comes with door)

Instructions

1. Mesure the existing opening using a tape measure. You will need the entire opening size, including the frame. Use this measurement to purchase the correct size pre-hung unit from a home improvement store.

2. Determine which way you will place the door within the opening. You want the door to swing in whichever direction takes up the least room and makes the most sense. For example, having a door swing into a room against a wall is a way of saving space. Closet doors should swing out to maximize storage space within the closet.

3. Slide the unit into the opening, bottom first. The unit should be centered within the opening.

4. Use three nails along the hinge jamb to temporarily nail the unit in place. Don't countersink these nails yet, as you may have to remove them later.

5. Determine if the unit is level by checking the space along the head and along both jambs. If the spacing is not equal, place wooden shims between the jambs and the wall studs, nailing them in place until the unit is level. Use a level to confirm the unit is plumb before proceeding.

6. Nail the unit into place, making sure to countersink the nails you installed previously. Install any desired hardware or locks.

7. Install any included wooden trim kits or molding required.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the unit is perfectly level and even before completing installation. A door that is not plumb will not operate correctly and could pose a security risk.