Common Interior Door Installation Mistakes

When installing any interior door, there are a few common mistakes that should be avoided. Even those with plenty of DIY experience at home can make one or more of the following mistakes which will compromise the look, durability, and functionality of the door. Professional door installation is ideal since it ensures the perfect fit without delays or any effort. If you do plan on installing an interior door yourself, here are a few words of advice regarding some common mistakes.

Installing your door parallel to the wall

If the wall you are using to support your door is not level, it means that your door will be too. You may notice that your door will swing open or shut. Remember, you will need to check the wall both vertically and horizontally to make sure that it is straight. It’s also important to check the opposite wall since the two may not run parallel. Find out how your walls run to make sure that the door is properly fitted. If anything, you may need to close up some gaps in the wall after installing the door. The door will still be straight but not necessarily flush against the walls which is why there might be gaps here and there.

Over-tightening hinge screws or using the wrong ones

3 ½” screws are preferred and have proven durable. If the screws are too small, the door may shift. This can cause the door to scrape the floor or it might not even shut at all. If the screws are over-tightened, it can result in the door warping.

Improperly placed shims

The thicker end of the shim should be placed facing the hinge pin of the door. This allows it to swing closed properly. If they are installed backwards, you will notice resistance before the door closes.

Not checking the reveals

Uneven reveals are one of the main reasons for warped doors. This can result in other long-term problems and eventual door replacement. The reveals need to be parallel in order to ensure minimal wear and tear which will prolong the life of the door. If they are uneven, the door will endure excessive pressure and, as moisture levels change, it will result in warping.

Sill not level

When you install a door, the sill also needs to be level much like the foundation of a home. The sill provides the base for your door so, if it’s not level, the door will not be level. Take the necessary steps to ensure a level sill before you start the installation. With all of these common mistakes in mind, it will be that much easier for you to properly install an interior door. No matter the type, size, or where you are installing the door, all of these concerns should be addressed before or during the installation process. Make sure that you have all the necessary tools to perform the perfect installation. Proper installation along with high-quality doors ensure that they will last for years to come.