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How To

How to Install Prehung Swinging Doors

Contributor
By Jon Olson
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Swinging doors are most well known for their use in the Old West. Since the Old West, the swinging door has taken on many forms. Everything from the traditional two-door style to a single kitchen door and even to an industrial manufacturing plant door has been designed and built for swinging. When choosing the type and style of door, many are manufactured as prehung, which means they are built with a frame. This is the easiest type of door to install.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • 8d Finishing Nails
  • Hammer
  • Level
  • 3" Casing Screws
  • Drill with Screwdriver Bit
  • Shims
  • Pin Nailer
  • Air Compressor
  • 1-1/4" Pin Nails

    Installation

  1. Step 1

    Set the base of the prehung door into the base of the rough opening. Tip the top into place.

  2. Step 2

    Push the hinge side of the door tight against the wall framing. Install an 8d finishing nail into the top of the hinge side of the door frame.

  3. Step 3

    Use a level to check plumb along the hinge side. If the door is not plumb, install shims to move the base of the door away from the framing until the level shows plumb. Install an 8d finishing nail through the door frame and shims into the framing.

  4. Step 4

    Inspect the gap between the door and door frame, called the reveal. There should be a uniform gap along all sides. If the gap is not uniform, use a little pressure to adjust the frame with your hands.

  5. Step 5

    Drive 8d finishing nails through the latch side of the frame to secure the door. Ensure a uniform reveal during this process.

  6. Step 6

    Install shims on either side of the hinges and latch area. Drive 8d finishing nails through the frame and shims into the wall framing at each location.

  7. Step 7

    Remove the center screw from the top hinge on the frame of the prehung door. Install a new 3" screw into this location. This will prevent the door from sagging.

  8. Step 8

    Install the casing around the door. Use a pin nailer with 1-1/4" pins to secure the casing to the wall.

  9. Step 9

    Test the door for proper functionality.

Tips & Warnings
  • Applications that have heavy traffic through the swinging doors may want to consider a swinging door with a window.
  • Some doors are heavy and may require two people to lift. Wear proper safety protection.
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