There are two different types of doors for DIYers: pre-hung doors and slab doors. In a previous blog, we discussed the differences between pre-hung doors and slab doors. We have also outlined the steps to installing a pre-hung door. This blog will list the steps and resources you need to install a slab door.

First off, here are the resources you are going to need.

• Doorknob
• Door slab
• Hinges
• Pencil/pen
• Hammer
• Utility knife
• Measuring tape
• Cordless drill
• Circular saw
• Orbital sander
• Wood chisel set
• Wood shims
• Door lock installation kit

Once you have your resources for the job, you can get to work!

A Step-by-Step Process

1. Measure your door: measure the top, middle, bottom, thickness, and height of your current door.
2. Remove the door: remove any hardware from your door such as locks and doorknob first. Then, you can remove the hinges to remove the door completely.
3. Dry fit new door: use shims to keep your new door in the place you want your new door to go. Lay your old door on top of your new door and mark the bottom of the new door. It will most likely need to be trimmed.
4. Trim the new door: use a circular saw to trim the bottom of the door to the old door’s measurements.
5. Mark for hardware: use a pencil or pen to mark where hinges and (if applicable) the doorknob will go.
6. Score and notch hinges: use the utility knife to score the area where your hinges will go. Then, use the same tools to add notches to the scores. Finally, chisel off the notches.
   

   Once all of your notches are done, slowly remove them to create a flush area for your hinges.

7. Attach the hinges: with the electric drill, attach the hinges to the area you designated.
8. Drill the lockset hole: use the door lock installation kit to drill a hole for the lock and latch.
9. Install the latch: lay down the door and install the latch. In order for it to sit flush, follow step 6.
10. Attach the hinges to the frame: add shims to the bottom of the door, so it is at the height of your designated hinges. Then, use the cordless drill to attach them to the frame.
11. Check fit: open and close your door to ensure the height is where you want it, and if the bottom of the door needs to be leveled. If it not even, you may need to sand it down to the desired level.
12. Install remaining hardware: reattach the door if you needed to sand it, and then install the remaining hardware.

Southern Front Doors are the Experts

If you want to skip the hassle of hanging a door yourself, contact Southern Front Doors today by calling (281) 890-5860. Our team will hang your door the right way the first time. You can also contact us about our various products and the materials we use. We would be happy to provide you with the front door of your dreams!