Installing Doors & Door Frames: A DIY Guide

Installing a door and door frame may seem daunting, but it can be a manageable DIY project with the right tools and guidance. Not only can it save you money on professional installation, but it can also give you a sense of accomplishment and a customised look for your home.

With Vincent Buda & Co., you can learn everything you need about installing doors and door frames. From fitting a door to installing the frame, jamb, and hinges, we will provide step-by-step instructions and tips for a successful installation. And, if you need a crash course in door frame sizing, read up on everything you need to know and more on our DIY and Home Improvement blog.

Then, once you’re done, come back here to learn how to install a door: the frame, jambs and hinges.

How to Install a Door

Following a specific order is essential to ensure the installation is done correctly when installing a door, a door frame, door hinges, and a door jamb. You must also determine which type of door and door frame you’re installing.

Here's the appropriate order for these tasks:

DISCLAIMER: The following installation instructions refer to our SOLID CORE DOOR range only. If you require assistance installing a Fire-Rated Door, please contact us directly for more information. 

1. Choose your Door and Door Frame: Vincent Buda & Co. offers 2040mm high x 920mm wide x 35mm thick and 2040mm high x 820mm wide x 35mm thick Solid Core Doors with a Duracote finish and a suitable door frame to match.
2. Install the Door Frame: Start by installing the door frame into the rough opening of the wall. Ensure the frame is level and plumb before securing it in place.
3. Install the Door Jamb: After the frame is in place, install the door jamb inside. Ensure that the jamb is flush with the frame and that the door has enough space to open and close smoothly.
4. Install the Hinges: With the door frame and jamb in place, it's time to install the hinges. Secure the hinges to the door jamb first, ensuring they're level and aligned correctly. Then, attach the hinges to the door, ensuring it is level and flush with the jamb.
5. Install the Door: With the hinges attached, it's time to hang the door in the frame. Carefully position the door on the hinges and secure it in place. Test the door to ensure it opens and closes smoothly and is level.

How to Install a Door Frame

Installing a door frame is an essential part of the door installation process. While most door frames are made from timber, Vincent Buda & Co. stock metal door frames alongside fire-rated tube-fixed frames which can be used for fire and non-fire-rated applications.

DISCLAIMER: As mentioned above, these instructions refer to non-fire-rated applications only. Please contact Vincent Buda & Co. for more information about fire-rated door frames.

Fortunately, even in non-fire-rated applications, a metal frame is an excellent option if you're looking for a durable and long-lasting door frame.

Here's how to install a metal door frame:

1. Measure door opening and choose a suitable frame: Measure the height and width of the door opening, and choose an appropriate door frame size to match. Check our product listings for the proper door sizes and matching frames.
2. Install the bottom bracket: Place the bottom bracket on the floor and screw it into place.
3. Attach the frame to the wall: Position the frame in the opening and secure it using screws.
4. Install the header: Install the header piece at the top of the frame using screws.
5. Install the side brackets: Install the side brackets on either side of the frame using screws.
6. Test the fit: Place the metal door into the frame and test the fit. Adjust the frame as needed to ensure a proper fit.
7. Seal the frame: Apply sealant around the edges of the frame to ensure a tight seal.

How to Install a Door Jamb

A door jamb is the vertical portion of the frame into which the door fits. Having a solid door jamb ensures your door opens and closes properly. We'll show you how to level and install a door jamb. You'll also learn how to cut the wood to size and where to put the door stop.

Here are the steps for installing a door jamb:

1. Measure and cut the jamb: Measure the height and width of the door opening, and cut the jamb to fit.
2. Install the hinges: Mark the position of the hinges on the jamb and attach them using screws.
3. Attach the jamb to the frame: Place it into the frame and secure it using screws.
4. Test the fit: Place the door into the jamb and test the fit. Adjust the jamb as needed to ensure a proper fit.

How to Install Door Hinges

Door hinges are an integral part of the door installation process. At Vincent Buda & Co., we sell loose, fixed-pin 304 stainless steel hinges to suit your door installation. 

Here are the steps for installing door hinges:

1. Mark the hinge positions: Mark the positions of the hinges on the door and the jamb using a pencil.
2. Pre-drill the holes: Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screws to pre-drill holes in the door and jamb.
3. Install the hinges: Place them into the pre-drilled holes and attach them using screws.
4. Install the doorknob and lockset: Install the doorknob and lockset according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How to Fit a Door

Fitting a door is basically adjusting the door to fit the frame and jamb properly. Here are the steps for fitting a door:

1. Mark the areas that need adjustment: Close the door and look for areas where it is rubbing against the frame or jamb. Mark these areas with a pencil.
2. Remove the door: Remove the door from the frame and lay it on a flat surface.
3. Plane the edges: Use a hand plane or electric plane to shave off small amounts of wood from the areas you marked.
4. Sand the edges: Sand the edges to smooth them out and ensure a proper fit.
5. Reattach the hinges: Once the door fits properly, reattach the hinges and reinstall the door.

Installing a door and frame doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools and guidance, it can be a manageable DIY project that you can complete in a single weekend. 

Whether you're fitting a door or installing a frame, following the step-by-step instructions in this guide will ensure a successful installation. 

Be bold, take on this project yourself, and save money on professional installation. And if you’ve got some more free time, why not read up on painting doors and add a little colour to your world?

With patience and attention to detail, you'll have a beautiful, functional door and frame in no time. 

Doors & Door Frames From Vincent Buda

You can trust Buda to have suitable door hardware, like hinges and handles, in stock and sent to your door. With 99% of our online products readily available anytime, orders placed before 12 pm will be delivered by ute or truck delivery the following business day (Sydney Metro only).

Serving builders and DIYers since 1957, you can trust the Buda for your next job. Shop online now to access our extensive range of doors and door frame solutions alongside high-quality structural steel and building supplies for various projects, big and small.

Door Installation FAQs:

Q: How much does it cost to install a door and frame?

A: The cost of installing a door and frame can vary depending on the size of the door and the type of frame. Vincent Buda fire-rated doors are also more expensive than non-fire-rated doors.

Q: Can I install the door first, then the frame and jamb?

A: While it's technically possible to install the door before the frame and jamb, it's not recommended. This approach can make it challenging to ensure that the frame and jamb are level and plumb, which can cause problems with the door's operation.

Q: Do I need special tools to install a door and frame?

A: Basic tools such as a drill, screws, a hammer, and a level are needed for installing a door and frame. However, you may need specialised tools such as a hand or electric plane to fit the door.

Q: Can I install a door and frame by myself?

A: Yes, installing a door and frame can be a manageable DIY project with the right tools and guidance.

Q: How long does it take to install a door, frame, jamb, and hinges?

A: The time required for installation can vary depending on the job's complexity and the installer's level of expertise. Setting aside several hours for this project is best to ensure it's done correctly.

Q: Can a metal door frame be painted?

A: Yes, you can paint a metal door frame. Make sure to clean the surface thoroughly before painting and use a paint that is specifically designed for metal surfaces.