How To Remove Interior Door Jamb

How to Remove an Interior Door Jamb

Removing an interior door jamb is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials. Whether you're replacing a damaged door frame or simply want to update the look of your door, this guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to remove an interior door jamb safely and efficiently.

Tools and Materials You'll Need:

Pry bar or flathead screwdriver
Hammer
Nail puller
Utility knife
Tape measure or ruler
Pencil or marker
Safety glasses

Safety First

Before you begin, put on your safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. Also, make sure the area is well-ventilated, as removing the door jamb can create a lot of dust.

Step 1: Remove the Door

To remove the door, start by opening it fully. Locate the hinges and remove the pins using a hammer and nail puller. Once the pins are removed, carefully lift the door off the hinges and set it aside in a safe place.

Step 2: Remove the Casing

The casing is the decorative trim around the door jamb. To remove it, carefully insert a pry bar or flathead screwdriver between the casing and the wall. Gently pry the casing away from the wall and remove the nails holding it in place. Once the nails are removed, set the casing aside.

Step 3: Remove the Jamb

The jamb is the vertical piece of wood that forms the sides of the door opening. To remove it, insert a pry bar or flathead screwdriver between the jamb and the wall. Gently pry the jamb away from the wall and remove the nails holding it in place. Once the nails are removed, set the jamb aside.

Step 4: Remove the Header

The header is the horizontal piece of wood that forms the top of the door opening. To remove it, insert a pry bar or flathead screwdriver between the header and the wall. Gently pry the header away from the wall and remove the nails holding it in place. Once the nails are removed, set the header aside.

Step 5: Clean Up

Once the door jamb has been removed, you can clean up the area. Use a vacuum cleaner or broom to remove any debris, and wipe down the wall with a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt.

Tips:

If the door jamb is particularly old or damaged, it may be necessary to use a reciprocating saw to cut it into smaller pieces before removing it.
When prying the door jamb away from the wall, be careful not to damage the drywall.
If you are replacing the door jamb, be sure to measure the opening carefully before purchasing a new one.

Conclusion

Removing an interior door jamb is a straightforward task that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely and efficiently remove an interior door jamb and update the look of your door or replace a damaged one.