Entry doors are available as both slabs and in standard prehung sizes that fit most newer houses. If you have an opening with an unusual size or would like a custom-made door, you may need to buy a slab. Slabs require a few additional steps to those shown below for a prehung door, which arrive with the jambs and hinges already in place. Replacing an older entry door with a new insulated door can save energy, as well. The most important part of hanging a door is to make sure it's plumb and level.
Tools and Supplies needed:
Basic tool kit and items on this page.
1. Preparing to Hang the Door
A. Check the floor to make sure it's level. If it's level, you will
be able to align the door with the floor. B. Remove all of the packaging
from the door, except any braces that keep the door square.
2. Positioning the Door
A. Center the door inside of the opening to make sure that the door
will fit. B. Use shims, if necessary, to make sure the door is plumb
in the opening. C. After the door is centered, trace the molding
on the exterior of the house. Drive nails at the top of the door
unit to keep it in place as you make adjustments.
D. Once centered, trace the molding onto the exterior of the house.
Drive nails at the top of the unit to keep it in place as you make
adjustments. E. Check for plumb. Use a pry bar to adjust the hang.
The gap between door and wall must be small enough to be covered
by the door casing.
3. Installing the Hinge and Lock
A. Insert shims behind each hinge. The shims help distribute pressure.
B. Screw the hinges in place. Check to make sure the door opens properly.
C. Drive nails every 12 inches (305 mm) along the
molding into the house.
4. Installing the Drip Edge
A. Measure the width of the opening. Cut and install a drip edge at
the top of the opening. This provides a moisture barrier. B. Making
sure to firmly press the molding in place, center the door inside
the opening. Run a bead of caulk around the molding. Adjust the door’s
threshold.