How to install an interior door?

When the time has come to update your interior design or when your old doors have become outdated, opting for new doors is an excellent choice. For homeowners who want to save money, installing an interior door yourself is an advantageous choice – as long as you know how to proceed! Dörr Industries takes you through an interior door installation, step by step.

Necessary Materials and Tools

List of Required Materials

• Nails for wood and finishing nails
• Screws
• Wood shims
• Door frame
• Door
• Molding (door stoper)
• Accessories (hinges, handles, locks)

Rember that every door installation will vary depending on the product itself. With Dörr Industries, custom-made doors with no visible frames are delivered with a pre-assembled frame and all of the necessary accessories, simplifying the process.

Necessary Tools for the Installation

• Air or battery powered nail gun
• Level
• Drill and tips
• Chisel
• Wood router (optional)
• Measuring tape
• 7/8- inch spade drill bit

Preparing the Opening

Measuring and Adjusting the Opening

Before installing an interior door, you will need to prepare the opening: measure the width and height, then remove 1 ½ inches from the head jamb width for easy adjustment.

Use a level to make sure everything is square and that the opening structure and the floor are level.

Removing the Old Door (if applicable)

If you are replacing an existing door, remove it carefully, then clean the opening to make sure there are no residues before moving on to the next step.

Installing the Door

Positioning the Frame

• 1. Make sure the surface is straight and devoid of obstacles or irregularities.
• 2. Install the door frame in the opening.
• 3. Insert shims on each side, between the jambs and the wall to fill the space.
• 4. With a level, make sure the sides are perpendicular and adjust, if necessary, until they are perfectly vertical.

The frame must be level both horizontally and vertically. A difference of 1/16 of an inch or less is considered acceptable. Once the frame is properly positioned, assemble it and fasten it in place by screwing it in tightly, with the shims.

Double-Checking the Alignment

Double-check the horizontal surface between jambs: measurements must be identical at the top, center and bottom. Once properly adjusted, screw it firmly into place and cut off the protruding parts of the shims.

Installing the Door on the Frame

To install your interior door, you must first fasten the hinges onto the frame, and then onto the door:

• 1. Locate the area where the hinges should be installed and trace the contour on the side of the door and the frame.
• 2. Cut carefully along the lines you have drawn.
• 3. Carve out the necessary thickness for the hinges with a wood router or chisel.
• 4. Place the hinges on the frame and make sure the surface is even and smooth, then fasten with screws.
• 5. Place the door in alignment with the frame and fasten it by screwing in the pre-installed hinges.

Finishes

Installing the Door Handles

Once the door is installed, it is time to add the door handles and other accessories.

• 1. Place and glue the handle template onto the door. A door handle should generally be 36- inches from the floor.
• 2. Drill a hole with the proper bit, according to the size of the template.
• 3. Lightly sand the edges of the hole.
• 4. Drill the hole for the latch with the proper drill bit.
• 5. Carve out the area for the latch plate and install the latch.
• 6. Install the handle and the assembly plate, insert the spindle and mounting screws.

Adjustments and Caulking

You have just finished installing the door. Now, how can you adjust it? It must sit properly on the doorstop, open and close easily without rubbing on the frame. If the adjustment is poor, this can be due to a screw that has not been completely screwed in on the hinges.

You can also apply a caulking product around the frame to insulate the door.

Paint or Varnish

Once the door is properly adjusted, you can add the finishing touches: choose the paint or varnish that matches your interior design. Your custom-made door, like our sliding pocket doors, can be delivered in the colour of your choosing or ready to be painted.

Additional Advice and Mistakes to Avoid

Common Mistakes made During an Installation

Be mindful of not making the following mistakes:

• Placing the opening on the wrong side
• Not measuring the door opening or the door itself properly
• Not screwing in the hinges or frame properly
• Not double-checking your work with a level

Tips and Tricks for a Successful Installation

Firstly, you will want to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. To avoid making mistakes, take the time to measure everything twice and double-check before you begin cutting or screwing in any of the parts. Make sure to have quality tools and do not hesitate to ask someone else for help.

Installing a new interior door can truly improve your interior design. By following these instructions step by step, you can proceed to the installation yourself and end up with a professional result! Our complete and preassembled products make it easier than ever. Design your own custom-made door online as early as today!