Installing interior doors is a relatively straightforward process when you have the right plan in place.
Equipment Requirements
You will need tools and materials to properly install your interior door. For materials, you will need:
- Interior door
- Framing
- Hinges
- Combo door lever
- Wood screws
- Framing nails
- Wood shims
The tools you will need for this project include:
- Claw hammer
- Standard level
- Power drill
Replacing an Existing Door
There are two broad types of installation when it comes to interior doors: replacing an existing door and hanging a new door. Let’s look at the process of replacing an existing door first.
1. Remove Old Door & Accessories
The first step in replacing an existing door is to remove the existing door. You will also want to remove the existing door accessories, including the hinges and locking mechanism. However, it is worth noting that if the old equipment is still functional and in good condition, you may be able to keep it as-is and just install the new door with the existing equipment.
2. Use Previous Equipment as a Guideline
If you do choose to remove the old equipment, be sure to use the placement of the old equipment as a guideline. The impressions left on the wood or frame can make the installation of new hinges or door locks much simpler, leading to an easier installation overall.
3. Install New Equipment and Door
Once you’ve decided and confirmed the locations of any new equipment, install it and hang the door accordingly. Using the previous locations for any equipment should make this process relatively straightforward.
Hanging a New Interior Door
Many of the steps for hanging a new interior door mirror those found when replacing an existing door. However, extra measurements and considerations for preparing the space are more necessary. Let’s look at the full process below.
1. Hinge Measurement and Installation
The first step in hanging a new interior door is to measure the placement of hinges and install them. The easiest way to do this is by using the previous door as a guide and marking the same measurements on the new door. In lieu of this, use the instructions provided with your particular door model, and don’t forget to add the necessary length at the bottom of the door so that it can swing freely.
2. Hanging the Door on the Hinges
Once you have chosen the position of the hinges and installed them on the door jamb, the next step is to hang the door on said hinges. You can make this easier by using shims to help prop the door in the correct position and should use the hinge pins to secure it in place. Join Cosmaroma today as we look at the complete process of hanging a blank interior door from start to finish.
3. Testing and Handle Installation
Before installing the handle or locking mechanism, take a few moments to ensure that the door swings freely and without obstruction. Rectify any errors and then install the handle and deadbolt mechanism, if required.
Doors add value to the interior design of your room. You can ask the experts like DM Design to select the right door and other interior combinations. Experts have a professional approach so they can provide better ideas.
