How To Replace An Interior Door With A Prehung

How to Replace an Interior Door With a Prehung Unit

Replacing an interior door can be a straightforward home improvement project that adds a fresh look to your home. While you can replace just the door slab, using a prehung door unit simplifies the process. Prehung doors come with the door slab, frame, and hardware already assembled, making installation significantly easier. This article will guide you through the steps involved in replacing an interior door with a prehung unit.

1. Preparation and Removal

Before starting, gather the necessary tools, including a level, tape measure, pencil, saw, screwdriver, hammer, and pry bar. You may also need safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask.

Begin by removing the existing door by removing the hinges and lifting the door off its jamb. If the door has a doorstop, remove it as well. Carefully pry away the trim or casing around the door opening using a pry bar and hammer. Be cautious not to damage the surrounding walls.

Next, remove the old doorframe. This can be done by carefully removing the nails or screws holding it in place. Some frames are held in place by mortar or construction adhesive. In this case, a pry bar and hammer may be needed to chisel out the frame. You may need to remove portions of the drywall in order to get a good grip on the old frame.

2. Installing the New Prehung Door Unit

Once the old door and frame are removed, you are ready to install the new unit. Check that the new unit is the correct size for the opening. If not, the existing opening may need to be adjusted. Use a level to ensure that the new unit is plumb (vertical) and square (sides at 90 degrees).

Secure the door unit to the wall using screws or nails. The exact placement and number of fasteners will vary depending on the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure that the door swings freely and does not rub against the frame. For a smooth finish, use shims to adjust the unit's level and squareness before attaching it.

3. Replacing the Trim and Final Touches

After installing the door unit, install new trim or casing around the opening. Use a tape measure and level to ensure the trim is aligned and straight. Cut the trim to length with a saw and attach it to the doorframe with nails or screws.

Once the trim is in place, install the doorstop. The doorstop is the piece of molding that prevents the door from swinging too far. Use screws or nails to attach the doorstop to the frame.

Finally, install the door hardware. This typically includes the door handle and deadbolt. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to install the hardware properly. Make sure the door handle is at a comfortable height.

After installing the door and hardware, check that the door operates smoothly and closes securely. Ensure all screws and nails are properly secured.