Safety + Security
Fitting a New Front Door

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Fitting a New Front Door

A front door has to fit well to be secure and keep out the draughts. It's a straight-forward job, but remember that after you hang the door you will have to fit the locks and any other door furniture like a letter slot and door knocker.



Time to complete job: A week-end - and remember to allow time for painting or varnishing and fitting new locks.

Approximate budget: Expect to pay at least £150 for a good door.

You will need:

  • A new wooden door
  • Screwdriver
  • Drill
  • Chisel
  • Mallet
  • Try square
  • Pencil
  • Tape measure
  • Hinges and screws
  • Plane
  • Saw or circular saw
  • Wooden wedges
  • Abrasive paper
First Steps
Buy the best quality door and locks you can afford. Front doors have to stand a lot of wear and tear. Always check your new door has no splits or damage before you hang it.

For professional advice, visit the Institute of Carpenters website.
Measuring

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Measuring

Measure the door frame width and length at two points (as the timber may not be square).
Transfer these measurements to the new door. You should allow 5mm (0.2in) clearance at the bottom and 3mm (0.1in) on the other three sides.
Undo the hinge screws on the existing door and remove.
Tip: You may need to use an old chisel to scrap away old paint on the screwheads.
Cutting the door to size

Click to enlarge

Cutting the door to size

Cut the new door to size with a circular saw. If there is less than 5mm (0.2in) to trim off, it's easier to use an electric or hand planer instead.
Tip: Always reduce a door's size equally from both sides or from the top and bottom. You shouldn't cut off more than 15mm (0.6in) from any edge or it may weaken the joints.
Checking the fit

Click to enlarge

Checking the fit

Sand smooth any rough areas and fit the door into the opening, wedged in position at the bottom, to check the fit.
If you have bought new hinges, fit them into the hinge recesses in the door frame. Place the door in the frame and support on two timber wedges.
Tip: If you have thick carpet, fit rising butt hinges that will lift the door upwards as it opens.
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