Doors

The key to door repair, maintenance, installation or replacement is having an understanding of how doors are made and how the hanging mechanism works.

Interior Doors

A standard door is hung in a door jamb which is mostly hidden from view by a door casing. The door jamb must be securely fastened to the wall framework and be installed level and plumb. Determine position for the door and add spacers as necessary to secure the door jamb the wall studs. Use 8d finishing nails to mount the door jamb.

Interior doors are made of three basic elements - frame, honeycomb core and a veneer surface. The frame surrounds the outer edges of the door and contains cross members for additional support in the middle of the door. If the door needs to be trimmed for height, after trimming insert a piece of solid into the center space at the bottom of the door to strengthen it.

Set the door in place, open at a 45° angle using shims to space the door above the floor and level it. Accurately mark position of the hinges and move the door away. Recess the door jamb in the shape of the hinge plate with a chisel. Remove the jamb hinge plate from the door by removing the hinge pin. Set the hinge plate in place and mount securely to the door jamb.

Install the door casing set back 3/8" from the door jamb opening to cover all openings and studs. Paint as desired.

Exterior doors

Follow instructions as for interior doors except that exterior doors are typically solid rather than honeycomb centers. Be sure to weatherproof the door, door jamb and door casings. Paint, stain or finish as desired.

Garage Doors

Adding or replacing a garage door may require an expert with the proper tools to install the heavy springs used to retract the door. Check with your garage door supplier before purchasing. Once the door is installed, installing a garage door opener is a simple yet often time-consuming project. Most garage door openers can be installed with a drill and general hand tools.

Review the features of openers available at your local or online supplier and select the one that most meets your needs. Follow instructions carefully and test the door several times.

MANUFACTURERS

Alamo Designs Inc
Andersen Windows and Doors
CertainTeed
Historic Doors
Hurd Windows and Doors
Jeld-Wen Windows and Doors
Madawaska Doors Inc
Marvin Windows and Doors
Monarch Windows and Doors
Peachtree Doors and Windows

Other Door Resources

Genie Garage Door Opener

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