Architecture Adrenaline
Promoting Freedom for Creative Architecture
Enhancing the aesthetic of your home with a door without a frame is an effortless way to modernize its appearance. Plus, it saves you both money and time by forgoing the expense of buying and cutting door frames.
Hanging a door without the use of a frame can be done by anyone with basic hand tools and knowledge of using a drill. However, if you're new at this task, start with an easy pre-hung door or consult with an expert regarding your options.
When it comes to doors, some are easier to install than others. A pre-hung option offers the most convenience - its hinges are already attached to the jamb so no preparation work is needed prior to installation.
A door slab is the structural element of an entryway, attaching to the framing of the wall and serving as its foundation. To measure its height and width, take three vertical measurements from left to right and top to bottom.
Measure the thickness of the slab at several locations so you can calculate its overall thickness.
Slab Doors: Slab doors are the simplest type of door to install, as they don't need you to take out your old jamb or trim from your rough opening. While these may be more expensive than prehung options, their installation is much simpler and less likely to cause frame issues.
Before purchasing a slab door, be sure to inspect its frame for loose screws or framing pieces. If there are, they could come loose when opened.
No matter the type of door you install, it is essential to make sure the opening is level. Track doors, sliding closet doors and accordion doors should all be leveled carefully so they don't drag on the floor when closed. Saloon-style double swinging doors also need proper levelling in order to close securely and lock safely.
Professional contractors or DIY-ers who need to hang the door themselves will require a quality stud finder to identify any studs in the wall. This handy device also helps locate wires or moisture problems.
Once you've located any studs, use your stud finder to accurately measure the length of wall where the door will hang. Doing this ensures that the door you purchase is long enough for the opening and fits securely against the wall.
Once the opening has been measured, you can order a prehung door that meets your requirements and install it by following the instructions on the package. The process should only take you a couple days; however, be mindful when hanging the door as drywall and paint may not have fully dried when installing; additionally, avoid working in rainy or high humidity conditions.
