2021 June

Elevate Your Interior: A Comprehensive Guide to Installing Interior Doors

closed white wooden door
closed white wooden door

Interior doors not only define the aesthetics of a space but also play a crucial role in providing privacy, sound insulation, and a sense of division within your home. If you're ready to give your living spaces a fresh update, installing interior doors can be a rewarding DIY project. In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of installing interior doors, from gathering the tools to the final adjustments.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools and materials. You'll need a tape measure, a level, a pencil, a saw, a chisel, a hammer, a screwdriver, screws, door hinges, a door knob or handle set, and of course, the door itself.

Step 2: Measure and Prep Start by measuring the height and width of the door frame. Measure the height from the top of the floor to the top of the frame, and the width from jamb to jamb. Ensure that your new door matches these dimensions.

Step 3: Remove the Old Door If you're replacing an existing door, carefully remove it from its hinges. This might involve unscrewing the hinges or tapping the hinge pins out. Keep the hardware aside for future use or replacement.

Step 4: Align and Install Hinges Position the new door on sawhorses or a stable surface. Place the hinges on the door frame and mark their locations. Use a chisel to create recesses for the hinges, ensuring they are flush with the door's edge.

Step 5: Hang the Door With the hinges installed, enlist the help of a friend to hold the door in place while you secure the hinges to the frame using screws. Ensure the door is level and plumb before tightening the screws.

Step 6: Install the Door Knob or Handle Set Mark the desired height for your door knob or handle set. Drill holes for the knob/lever and latch mechanism according to the manufacturer's instructions. Attach the hardware securely.

Step 7: Test and Adjust Close and open the door several times to ensure it swings freely and doesn't rub against the frame or floor. Make any necessary adjustments by slightly loosening the screws and repositioning the door. Once it's operating smoothly, tighten the screws.

Step 8: Finishing Touches Fill any gaps or holes with wood filler and sand it smooth once dry. You can then paint or stain the door to match your interior decor.

Step 9: Add Weatherstripping (if needed) If your door is an exterior door, consider adding weatherstripping to improve energy efficiency and insulation.

Step 10: Enjoy Your New Door Step back and admire your handiwork. Your newly installed interior door not only enhances the visual appeal of your space but also adds functionality and privacy to each room.

Installing interior doors can be a satisfying DIY project that transforms the look and feel of your home. By following these steps and taking your time to ensure precise measurements and alignment, you'll be able to enjoy the rewards of your efforts for years to come. Remember, each step contributes to the overall quality and longevity of the installation, so pay attention to detail and enjoy the process of enhancing your living spaces. If however you require additional help, feel free to reach out to us and we can come get the job done right. We service Toronto and the surrounding area.

Replacing or installing interior doors

A quick how to guide.

6/30/20213 min read