Removing an Existing Entry Door Unit
To remove an existing exterior door and frame from a wall:
- Use a hammer and chisel or nail set to tap out the hinge pins on the existing door.
- Remove the old door from the hinges.
- Unscrew and remove the lockset and deadbolt on the door, if you plan to reuse them on the new door.
- Use a utility knife to cut through the paint film between the interior door casing and drywall and exterior door casing and siding or brick.
- Place a flat pry bar or chisel between the interior door casing and door jamb, and use a hammer to loosen the casing from the door frame.
- Pry off the interior door casing, being careful not to damage the drywall.
- Insert a flat pry bar or chisel between the exterior door casing and door jamb, and use a hammer to loosen the casing from the door frame.
- Pry off the exterior door casing, being careful not to damage the siding or brick.
- Unscrew and remove the hinges, door latch, and deadbolt strike plate from the old door frame.
- Use a pry bar to remove the door jambs and threshold.
We have a older home 1937 with a wooden entry round top door. Need to replace it, would like to do so with a square one, what are our options?
Ramona,
I’ve done a lot of research and I would recommend a fiberglass door that is made to look like wood. This way it would continue with the look of your home but provide better insulation for hot or cool weather.
I want to install a 36 inch prehung to a 35 inch opening. Can I remove the double stud framing or do you have a better idea?
Need to replace door sweep. door pins are spring loaded. found vidos to remove pin. Whats next, its a knuckle buster after the pins come out. found no futher info. Jeff.
I think I may need look more into refinishing and refurnishing. Though my door does have some issues, like wood deterioration, but I don’t think it’s that big of a deal. I think I’m just in the mood for change.
Great post!!!
Thanks for letting me know that wood beginning to rot is a sign you need to replace the door. My door has begun to have this issue, and I want our home to remain secure. Maybe it would be best to replace the door as soon as possible.
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My exterior door doesn’t have any damage but the frame and jamb or threshold(the bottom) are loose, can just those be replaced or do I have to buy the door and frame set?
Hi, Susan,
You shouldn’t need to buy a new door and frame set. Repairing a loose door frame and jamb could be a DIY job, or you could “hire it done.”
It just depends on the damage involved.
We recommend getting a professional to look at the situation and offer a quote based on his or her inspection.
Good luck!