Often the easiest solution is to remove the existing jambs and casing and install a prehung door.
Unless your house is very old, you’ll have little problem finding a door to fit.
The most common door height is 80 inches, although most are available 78 inches tall as well.
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Common interior door widths are 24, 28, 30, 32, and 36 inches.
Before you begin your DIY door installation, remove the old door and check that the doorway is square.
If not, scribe and plane the door.
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Now you’re ready to get started.
We’ll show you how to install a door into your home’s existing opening.
If you have to trim the door, take an equal amount off each side.
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Check for Fit
Check the door fit.
Mark the mortise locations and cut the mortises.
Hang Door
Hang the door.
New locksets come with a template to help you locate where to drill holes.
Measure the lockset to determine the distance the hole should be from the edge of the door.
Drill a 2-1/8-inch hole through the door with a hole saw.
Attach Bolt
Insert the bolt into the holein the door’s edge.
Align the bolt plate with the edges of the door and trace around it with your utility knife.
Remove the bolt and remove the wood inside the outline to create a mortise for the plate.
When you’re finished, the plate should be slightly below the surface.
Most hinge-mortising jigs work with a router equipped with a template guide.
If it is you might nail the door frame directly against the drywall opening.
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Check carefully for nails, then lay out the hinge mortises on the jamb.
Rout close to the layout lines.
Finish the mortises with a sharp chisel.
Hold the door in the opening with shims and transfer the marks.
