How To Remove An Interior Door Frame

Removing an Interior Door Frame: A Step-by-Step Guide

Interior door frames can often become damaged, outmoded, or simply no longer suitable for the space. Removing an interior door frame may seem like a daunting task, but it can be done with the right tools and a little know-how. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to remove an interior door frame safely and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Materials

Crowbar
Hammer
Screwdriver
Putty knife
Shim
Safety glasses
Duct tape

Step 1: Remove the Door

Before you can remove the door frame, you will need to remove the door. To do this, use a screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding the hinges in place. Once the screws are removed, carefully lift the door off the hinges and set it aside in a safe place.

Step 2: Pry Loose the Casing

The casing is the trim that surrounds the door frame. To remove the casing, use a putty knife to pry it loose from the frame. Start at one corner and work your way around, being careful not to damage the casing or the wall.

Step 3: Remove the Jambs

The jambs are the vertical pieces of the door frame that hold the door in place. To remove the jambs, use a crowbar to pry them loose from the studs. Start at the bottom of the jamb and work your way up, using a shim to protect the wall from damage.

Step 4: Remove the Header

The header is the horizontal piece of the door frame that sits above the door. To remove the header, use a crowbar to pry it loose from the studs. Be careful not to damage the header or the drywall above it.

Step 5: Clean Up

Once the door frame has been removed, you will need to clean up the area. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust and debris. You may also need to patch any holes or cracks in the wall.

Tips for Removing an Interior Door Frame

Wear safety glasses when removing the door frame to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Use a shim to protect the wall from damage when prying loose the jambs and header.
If the door frame is particularly tight, you may need to use a hammer to help pry it loose.
If you are not comfortable removing the door frame yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you.