When replacing a door frame, one of the most critical decisions is determining the correct sequence forinstalling door hinges. The answer might surprise you—experienced carpenters typically attach thehinges to the door first, not the frame. Let’s explain why this approach to door frame replacement leads to better results.
Why Fix Hinges to the Door First?
Starting with the door allows you to achieve more precise alignment. By marking and mortising the hinges on the door while it's lying flat, you can ensure perfectly straight and level hinge placement. This flat working surface gives you better control over your measurements and cuts than working vertically on the frame.
The Process
Begin by measuring and marking your hinge locations on the door's edge. Typically, hinges are placed:
- 7 inches from the top
- 11 inches from the bottom
- The middle hinge is centered between these points
After marking, use a chisel and hammer to carefully cut the mortises to the exact depth of your hinge leaves.
Once the hinges are securely fastened to the door, you can use the door itself as a template for marking the frame.
Hold the door in its final position, supported bydoor hinge shims at the proper height, and mark the hinge locations directly onto the frame. This method ensures perfect alignment between the door and frame mortises.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many DIYers make the mistake of mounting hinges to the frame first, thinking it will be easier to hang the door afterward. However, this often leads to misalignment issues and can result in a door that doesn't swing properly or close correctly.
Working frame-first also makes adjusting for any irregularities in the frame or floor level more challenging.
Another common error is rushing through the mortising process. Shallow mortises will prevent the door from closing properly, while too-deep mortises can weaken the door or frame and cause the hinges to bind. Take your time and test the fit frequently during this crucial step.
Professional Tips and Techniques
- When attaching hinges, always pre-drill your screw holes to prevent splitting the wood.
- Use a self-centering drill bit (also known as a VIX bit) to ensure your screws are perfectly centered in the hinge holes.
- Initially, install only two screws per hinge – this allows for minor adjustments before committing to the final position with all screws.
Remember to account for your flooring situation. If you're installing new flooring after the door, leave appropriate clearance at the bottom to accommodate the finished floor height.
Standard clearance is typically 1/2 inch over the finished floor, but this may need to be adjusted based on your specific flooring type and local building codes.
For exterior doors or those in high-humidity areas, consider usingstainless steel hinges to prevent rust and ensure long-term durability. Also, apply a wood sealer to any exposed wood surfaces created during the mortising process to protect against moisture damage.
Final Thoughts
By following this door-first approach, you'll achieve professional-quality results and save yourself the frustration of making multiple adjustments to yourhinges later. Whether you're replacing a single door or tackling multiple frames in your home, this method consistently produces well-functioning, properly aligned doors.
For more insight on door hinges and proper installation, check out our Ultimate Guide to Hinges.
FAQs About Door Frame Replacement
1. Can I replace just my door frame?
Yes, you can replace just the door frame without replacing the door, as long as the door is in good condition and matches the new frame's dimensions. However, you'll need to ensure the new frame matches your door's exact size and hinge placements. If there's any rot or damage extending into the wall structure, you might need more extensive repairs beyond just the frame replacement.
2. How much does it cost to replace a door frame?
The cost to replace a door frame varies based on whether it's an interior or exterior installation.
- Interior door frame replacement typically runs $350-$800 total, including both materials ($150-$300) and professional installation ($200-$500).
- Exterior door frame replacement costs more, usually $700-$1,600 total, with potential additional costs if there's underlying damage.
3. What hinge goes on the door frame?
The type of hinges that go on the door frame depends primarily onthe weight of your door and its usage. For most interior doors, standard butt hinges work well, typically using three 3.5-inch hinges, while exterior doors usually need four 4-inch hinges for added support. Ball-bearing hinges are recommended for heavier doors or high-traffic areas where durability is crucial.