When it comes to installing new doors in a home or commercial space, prehung interior doors and prehung doors are among the most popular choices for builders, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts. These doors offer convenience, efficiency, and a professional finish compared to traditional slab doors. In this guide, we will explore what prehung doors are, their advantages and disadvantages, installation processes, and key considerations when purchasing them.
What Are Prehung Doors?
A prehung door is a complete door system that comes pre-assembled in a frame, including the door slab, hinges, and jambs. Unlike a slab door (which is just the door itself without any hardware or frame), a prehung door is ready to be installed into a rough opening in a wall.
Types of Prehung Doors
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Prehung Interior Doors – Designed for use inside a home, such as bedroom, bathroom, or closet doors.
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Prehung Exterior Doors – Built for entryways, with enhanced security and weather resistance.
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Prehung Pocket Doors – Sliding doors that disappear into the wall cavity.
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Prehung French Doors – Double doors with glass panels, often used for patios or interior dividers.
For the purpose of this article, we will focus primarily on prehung interior doors, though many principles apply to other types as well.
Advantages of Prehung Interior Doors
1. Faster and Easier Installation
Since the door is already mounted on hinges within a frame, installation is much quicker than assembling a slab door with separate jambs and hinges. This is especially beneficial for large-scale projects where multiple doors are needed.
2. Professional Finish
Prehung doors ensure proper alignment, reducing the risk of gaps, sticking, or misalignment that can occur with slab doors. The hinges are pre-installed, and the frame is square, leading to a seamless fit.
3. Includes Essential Components
Most prehung doors come with:
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Door slab (the actual door)
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Hinges (usually three for interior doors)
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Door jamb (the surrounding frame)
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Door stop molding (prevents the door from swinging too far)
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Pre-drilled holes for the doorknob and latch
This eliminates the need to purchase these components separately.
4. Better Insulation and Soundproofing
Prehung interior doors often come with weatherstripping or seals, improving sound insulation between rooms and reducing drafts.
5. Ideal for New Construction and Renovations
Whether building a new home or replacing old doors, prehung doors fit perfectly into standard rough openings, making them a versatile choice.
Disadvantages of Prehung Doors
While prehung doors offer many benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider:
1. Higher Cost
Prehung doors are more expensive than slab doors because they include the frame and hardware. However, the labor savings often offset this cost.
2. Bulkier and Heavier
Transporting and handling prehung doors can be challenging due to their size and weight. They require more space for storage and maneuvering during installation.
3. Limited Customization
Since the door and frame come as a unit, modifications (such as resizing) are more difficult than with slab doors.
4. Requires a Rough Opening
Prehung doors must be installed into a properly sized wall opening. If the existing opening is non-standard, adjustments may be needed.
Prehung Interior Door Installation Process
Installing a prehung interior door is a manageable DIY project with the right tools and preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Tools Needed:
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Tape measure
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Level
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Shims
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Hammer & nails or screwdriver & screws
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Drill
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Utility knife
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Saw (if trimming is needed)
Steps for Installation:
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Prepare the Rough Opening
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Ensure the opening is the correct size (typically 2" wider and ½" taller than the door frame).
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Remove any old door, frame, or debris.
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Test Fit the Prehung Door
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Place the door unit into the opening to check alignment.
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Use shims to adjust for level and plumb.
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Secure the Door Frame
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Insert shims at hinge locations and along the strike side.
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Nail or screw the frame into place, ensuring it remains level.
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Install the Door Hardware
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Attach the doorknob, latch, and strike plate according to manufacturer instructions.
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Trim and Finish
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Cut excess shims and apply trim (casing) around the frame for a polished look.
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Caulk gaps for a clean finish.
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Check Door Operation
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Open and close the door to ensure smooth movement.
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Adjust hinges if necessary.
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Key Considerations When Buying Prehung Interior Doors
1. Door Material
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Solid Wood – High-end, durable, but expensive.
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Hollow Core – Lightweight and affordable, but less soundproof.
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Solid Core – Better insulation and durability than hollow core, mid-range price.
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MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) – Smooth finish, resistant to warping, budget-friendly.
2. Size and Handing
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Measure the rough opening before purchasing.
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Determine the door swing direction (left-hand or right-hand).
3. Style and Design
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Panel doors (traditional raised or flat panels)
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Flush doors (smooth, modern look)
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Glass inserts (for added light and aesthetics)
4. Finish Options
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Pre-primed (ready for painting)
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Pre-finished (stained or painted at the factory)
5. Fire-Rated Options
Some interior doors (like those for garages or basements) may require fire resistance.
Conclusion
Prehung interior doors provide a convenient, high-quality solution for both new construction and renovations. They save time on installation, ensure proper alignment, and come with all necessary components for a professional result. While they may cost more than slab doors, their ease of installation and superior fit make them a worthwhile investment.
When selecting a prehung door, consider factors such as material, size, style, and finish to match your home’s design and functional needs. With proper installation, a prehung door will provide years of reliable performance and aesthetic appeal.
Whether you're a contractor or a DIY homeowner, choosing prehung doors can simplify your project and deliver a polished, functional result.
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