Changing doors in your house is a manageable project, especially if you follow the right steps. Here’s a breakdown of the process, using information from the provided references, which primarily focuses on replacing an interior door:
Steps to Change Your Interior Door
Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Measure Existing Door and Frame:
- Carefully measure the height, width, and thickness of your current door and the inside dimensions of the door frame. This is crucial for buying a new door that fits correctly.
- Example: Note down measurements like "30 inches wide by 80 inches tall" for your door.
- Use Existing Door as a Guide:
- When preparing your new door, use the old door as a template for marking locations of hinges and the doorknob. This helps ensure the new door will fit into your existing frame.
- Mark Hinge Positions:
- Measure and mark the distance from the edge of your old door to each hinge location on the new door. This ensures proper alignment with the doorframe.
- Score Mortises:
- Use a chisel and hammer to score the outline for the hinge mortises (the recessed areas for hinges) on the door.
- A sharp chisel is essential for clean, precise cuts.
- Tap the Hinges in Place:
- Carefully tap the hinges into the mortises you created. Ensure they are flush with the door edge.
- Pre-drilling pilot holes can help avoid wood splitting.
- Bore Holes for Latch and Lever:
- Use a hole saw to bore the necessary holes for the doorknob latch and handle hardware. Make sure these line up with the holes in the door frame.
- Mortise the Latch Plate:
- Chisel out the mortise for the latch plate on the door's edge. The latch plate needs to sit flush with the door edge.
- Install the Latch and Lever:
- Install the doorknob and handle mechanism, making sure everything is secure and functions correctly.
Additional Considerations
- Door Type: The process may slightly vary based on whether you are installing a pre-hung door (which includes the frame) or just replacing the slab (door itself).
- Tools: Gather necessary tools like a measuring tape, pencil, chisel, hammer, drill, hole saw, and level.
- Safety: Always wear safety glasses when using power tools and chisels.
- Exterior Doors: Replacing exterior doors often involves more complex steps including weather stripping and proper sealing. If you are not familiar with this process it's best to hire a professional for exterior doors.
By following these steps, you can successfully change the doors in your house, focusing on proper measurements and careful installation.
