(FB Archive)
Is it possible to use a door frame kit to install a vintage door? Is it difficult to do? Can you use a kit or does it have to be custom?
We found a door we like but it doesn't come with a frame and we are adding a new exterior door so there's no existing frame.
Author: Michelle Marks
All Comments:
Brian Fanciulli You can just buy the frame pieces and threshold at the store and cut them to fit. There are lots of DIY videos and instructions online. It is easy with basic tools. The harder part, IMO, is fitting the hardware (hinges and strike), but not bad if you are detail-oriented and have the right tools.
Michelle Marks Author. @Brian Fanciulli the hinges come with the door we're looking at so that should eliminate that issue right?
Brian Fanciulli Easier, yes, so you will only have to scribe and etch the frame rather than the door, too. Just a good, sharp chisel and watch a few videos.
Christopher Hewett AdminGroup expert in Old & Historic Homes. @Michelle Marks see my comments in the thread...we just did this...
Brady O'Kelley Ingenuitive carpentry.
Jane Shattuck Build your own frame.
Seely Gerraughty be sure to measure the thickness of the wall before you buy an off the shelf frame kit. This job might be worth hiring a professional as it will be a big air and water leak if it is done incorrectly, You need to flash the door to the existing exterior walls for instance. The frame is the easy part IMHO.
Candy Vivier ooooh flashing. ok
Christopher Hewett AdminGroup expert in Old & Historic Homes. yep, case out your own frame with 1xs after you frame the new door opening. Frame the final dimensions to match your door exactly. Then transfer the old door hinge and lock locations to the new casing. I have a step by step process. See the Post Topics - Door Installation
Michelle Marks Author @Christopher Hewett thanks!
Christopher Hewett AdminGroup expert in Old & Historic Homes. @Michelle Marks youre welcome! You just need to start with the 1 additional earlier step of casing it out, then pick up where I started. Make sure to see the initial setup video about dimensions, cross measuring the opening, and the all important door gaps - 1/8" all tje way around, etc. Imade a custom threshold too, so you will have that info and starting point too. See all the material in that folder, take notes to lay out a plan from start to finish on paper, to keep ya straight so you dont forget anything. I'll also be uploading a youtube video this weekend on the threshold...good luck, yall van do this!
Michelle Marks Author. @Christopher Hewett excellent. I'll pass this on to hubby.
Christopher Hewett AdminGroup expert in Old & Historic Homes. @Michelle Marks https://youtu.be/AYI0oLnlHZo
Spencer Jacobsen In my experience, the kits are junk. However if you want it to be nice, close properly for the life of the door, it is difficult but anything is possible. Don’t be discouraged but know that exterior doors are a serious carpentry project. We always make custom jamb frames for our vintage doors. Complete with weatherstripping. Gary Katz has great videos on hanging doors. Look up ‘ This is Carpentry ‘