A prehung door is a special type of door in which the door is already hung with the door frame. In this article we will explain about prehung door, its types such as prehung interior door and prehung exterior door.
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What Is Prehung Door?
A prehung door is a door that comes with its frame and hinges already installed. The frame consists of the vertical elements, called door jambs, and a header that connects them at the top.
To install the prehung door, you simply need to install the entire assembly. However, it is important to make sure that the door swings in the right direction and that the lockset can be installed on the correct side.
It’s important to note that not all prehung doors come with casing, which is the molding that covers the gap between the frame and the wall. If the door you choose doesn’t include casing, you’ll need to buy and install it separately.
Prehung doors are a convenient option for those who want a complete door assembly without having to install each component separately.
Prehung Interior Door
Prehung interior door is installed in the interior space of the building. It is normally light weight and more decorated.
Prehung Exterior Door
Prehung exterior door is installed in the outer area of the building. It is heavy weight and less decorated.
How To Install A Prehung Door?
Installing a prehung door is a simple yet precise process that requires the right tools and attention to detail.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you install your prehung door with ease:
Step 1: Gather the necessary equipment
Before beginning the installation process, gather all the necessary equipment. You will need a prehung door, wood shims, nails, a hammer, a hand saw, a circular saw, a file, sanding equipment, a tape measure, and a pencil. Depending on your door model, you may also need extra hardware like a strike plate.
Step 2: Unwrap the door
Keep the prehung door in its packing restraints until you are ready to install it. This will keep it stable and prevent it from swinging. (Prehung door frames can be flimsy until they are bolted to a wall.)
Step 3: Prepare your rough door opening for installation
Your opening should be a half-inch wider and taller than the prehung unit you’re about to install. Make sure all surfaces are completely level with no twists and no nails or screws sticking out of the rough opening.
Step 4: Trim your door jamb to fit the opening
Use one of your saws, a file, or a sanding device to trim your door jamb to the necessary size. Plan on a two-inch gap between the bottom of your door and an unfinished floor, or a half-inch gap between the bottom of your door and a floor with finish.
Step 5: Level and attach the hinge side of the doorframe
Start installing the door on its hinge side. You can temporarily hold it in place using wood shims and finishing nails.
Step 6: Move on to the latch side
Once your hinge side is set in place, move on to the latch side of the doorframe. Once again use shims and finishing nails to attach the frame to the rough door opening.
Step 7: Attach the top of the frame
Insert a shim into the very top of the prehung unit and nail it in with finish nails. Continue to add shims where needed. A typical prehung door will have wood shims every foot (twelve inches) to hold it in place and maintain its rectangular shape.
Step 8: Finish with plaster and trim
With the prehung door properly nailed into the rough opening, you’re ready to add plaster and door trim to finish the project on an aesthetic level.
Installing a prehung door can be a time-consuming process, but it’s relatively simple if you follow the steps above.
With the right tools and careful attention to detail, you can successfully install a prehung door and enjoy its benefits for years to come.