How to install a slab interior door?

A solid wood slab door is one that does not have hinges or any other type of hardware. In other words, it is nothing more than a slab. Slab doors are good for increasing a room's insulation, shutting out sound, and minimizing drafts, but they may also be used as internal doors and room dividers.

Installing door slab can be quite easy, as long as you know what you are doing. It can be completed in no time and with simple tools. Plus, the door slab installation process will not take a lot of work on your part.

Tools for slab door hanging

Installing slab doors requires simple tools and can be done in just a few hours. Some of the common tools you need to hang slab door include:

• Measuring tape
• Saw (circular or track)
• Straight edge tool (to check the straightness of your lines)
• Chisels
• Door knob installation kit

Below are simple installation steps:

Measure the door frame opening

Start by measuring the door frame opening. Use the measuring tape to measure from side to side across the top of the doorframe, from jamb to jamb, and then from top to bottom on each side. You'll need this measurement to order an interior slab door from United Porte, so it is important your measurements are correct.

Prepare the slab door for the doorframe by trimming

Most doors come in a standard 80 inch height, but many entrances of different sizes. If you are installing a slab door to new frame, this may not be a problem, but if your new purchase is wider or taller than the old one, then you'll need to trim it to fit.

This may seem like a daunting task for unskilled workers, but it's really pretty easy. You can do it with a circular saw and a straightedge.

Measure the hinge position

This is where you'll place your hinges. Measure from the floor up to be certain of your measurements. Once you have got this right, cut the hinge slots or mortises in the new door. 

Use a chisel to cut out slots for each hinge leaf, according to your measurements, then use sandpaper or a rasp to smooth any rough edges. Do the same thing on the doorframe in the exact same position. The next step is to attach the hinges.

Mark the doorknob's location

The next thing you need to do is mark the location for the knob. This will be about 36 inches above the bottom of the finished floor and centered side to side in the opening.

Next step is to drill holes for the knob plate on your slab interior door and install the knob and set into its position. If you are replacing door slab, you can simply use the existing set.

Attach the door 

Finally, place the door in the opening and make sure it is level and evenly spaced on all sides. If it is plain or looks unfinished, apply coats of paint in your preferred color. Now you have your interior slab door all set up and ready for use.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, you now understand how to install an interior slab door. With a little effort, you can replace an old door with a new one. The key is to take your time, follow the proper preparation steps, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.