How To Replace An Interior Door Jamb

How to Replace an Interior Door Jamb: A Comprehensive Guide

Replacing an interior door jamb is a common home improvement project that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials. Whether you're replacing a damaged jamb or simply updating the look of your door, this guide will walk you through the steps involved in the process. ### Tools and Materials: 1. New door jamb 2. Hammer 3. Pry bar 4. Saw 5. Tape measure 6. Level 7. Shims 8. Wood screws 9. Nails 10. Paint or stain (optional) ### Step 1: Remove the Old Jamb 1.

Remove the Door:

Begin by removing the door from the jamb. Use a pry bar to gently pry off the hinges. Be careful not to damage the door or the jamb. 2.

Remove the Trim:

Next, remove the trim around the jamb. Use a pry bar to gently pry off the trim pieces. Again, be careful not to damage the wall or the jamb. 3.

Remove the Jamb:

Once the trim is removed, you can remove the jamb. Use a saw to cut the jamb at the top, bottom, and sides of the door opening. Be sure to cut the jamb flush with the wall. ### Step 2: Prepare the New Jamb 1.

Measure the Door Opening:

Use a tape measure to measure the width and height of the door opening. Make sure to measure the opening accurately, as the new jamb must be the same size. 2.

Cut the New Jamb:

Cut the new jamb to the appropriate size using a saw. Be sure to cut the jamb slightly wider and taller than the door opening. This will allow for shims to be used for proper fitting. 3.

Install the Weatherstripping:

If your new jamb has a slot for weatherstripping, install it now. Simply press the weatherstripping into the slot. ### Step 3: Install the New Jamb 1.

Position the Jamb:

Position the new jamb in the door opening. Make sure that the jamb is centered in the opening and that the top of the jamb is level. 2.

Shim the Jamb:

Use shims to level and plumb the jamb. Place shims between the jamb and the wall at the top, bottom, and sides of the jamb. Use a level to ensure that the jamb is plumb and straight. 3.

Secure the Jamb:

Once the jamb is properly positioned, secure it to the wall using wood screws. Drive the screws through the jamb and into the wall. Make sure to countersink the screws so that they are flush with the surface of the jamb. ### Step 4: Reinstall the Trim 1.

Cut the Trim:

Cut the trim to the appropriate size. Use a miter saw to create a 45-degree angle on the ends of the trim. 2.

Attach the Trim:

Attach the trim to the jamb using nails or wood screws. Make sure to nail or screw the trim into the jamb and not just the wall. ### Step 5: Paint or Stain the Jamb (Optional) If you want to paint or stain the jamb, do so now. Be sure to use a paint or stain that is specifically designed for interior use. ### Step 6: Reinstall the Door Finally, reinstall the door onto the jamb. Use the hinges that you removed earlier. Make sure that the door is properly aligned and that it opens and closes smoothly. Replacing an interior door jamb is a relatively easy project that can be completed in a few hours. By following these steps, you can ensure that the new jamb is properly installed and that your door operates smoothly.