Back Door - When it's time to replace an old door, the best way to go is with pre-hung units, where door and frame are already fitted together. This will eliminate problems with trying to get a new door to work properly in an old frame.

Brick homes are especially prone to having jambs that cannot be removed. For some reason, there are builders that will install the doors, then apply brick right over the outer part of the door frame. In this case, removal would require the jambs be broken apart in small sections for removal, and the new frame would have to be modified in order to fit.

Hanging a door can be a frustrating experience. The problem is usually due to not keeping the new frame square and plumb. Sometimes, it can be quite difficult to get a good fit due to the opening being out of alignment. Houses settle with time and door openings can move around a lot.

Removing an Existing Door

1. Wear gloves and goggles. You’ll be cutting nails and don’t want to get particles in your eyes.

2. Remove the door by unscrewing the hinges from the jamb.

3. Remove the inner door trim all the way around. Use a flat pry bar or thick metal putty knife.

4. Cut through the nails that hold the door to the framing. Use a reciprocating saw or hacksaw.

5. Pry or cut the threshold plate to remove. Not all doors will have one, especially interior units.

6. Push the door frame outward to remove. It’s easier if you have a helper for this.

Installing the New Door

1. Slide the new pre-hung door in place. Again, a helper makes this easier. Make sure it is positioned correctly and there are no gaps around the outer part of the frame.

2. Place wooden shims between the jambs and framing and tack them in place. Be sure to shim behind hinge and strike plate areas for secure fastening, especially for exterior or locking doors. Adjust shims as necessary to keep the door square and plumb. This is a must! If the jambs are out of alignment, the door will not close and seal properly.

3. After everything is set, drive nails through the jamb and shims, and into the framing. Driving nails at shim locations will prevent you from warping the jamb.

4. Make sure the door shuts and seals properly, If not, make small adjustments by shimming the door hinges between hinge and jamb. Don’t go overboard with this or the shims will show.