Projects

Framing a Pre-hung Interior Door

Project Overview

If you're building a new partition wall that includes an interior door, you'll need to frame the door opening properly. A properly constructed door opening reinforces the wall above and on either side of the door. You can save yourself some potential headaches by purchasing the pre-hung door unit you plan to install before beginning the framing. That way, you can be sure the opening you build is about 3/4 inch wider than the pre-hung door unit. This allows enough room to make the necessary adjustments. In moist basements, it's a good idea to use pressure-treated wood for the sole plate.

Position Jack Studs
Saw Sole Plate

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Step 1

Snap a Chalk Line

On the ceiling, snap a chalk line to indicate where the top plate of the new wall will be installed. Cut the material for the top plate to length, then nail the top plate through the ceiling into the ceiling joists or blocking.

Step 2

Mark Floor for Sole Plate

Use a plumb bob to mark the floor where the sole plate will be installed. Nail the sole plate to the floor, driving the nails into the floor joists or blocking. Remember, don't nail the sole plate to the floor between the jack stud locations because this portion of the plate will be removed before the door is installed.

Step 3

Measure, Cut and Position King Studs

Measure and cut the king studs and position them at the markings. Drive nails at a 45-degree angle to make a toenailed joint, or you can attach the studs with metal connectors.

Step 4

Measure and Cut Jack Studs

Measure the length of the jack studs to 80 7/8 inches, mark and cut them to size.

Step 5

Make a Header

Make a header by sandwiching two 2x4s around a 1/2-inch piece of plywood. Cut the header to fit between the king studs. Install a cripple stud between the header and the top plate, halfway between the king studs. Toenail the cripple stud to the top plate and the side of the header.

Step 6

Position Jack Studs

Position the jack studs against the inside of the king studs, and nail them in place. Nail through the king studs into the header.

Step 7

Saw Sole Plate

Saw through the 2x4 sole plate at the inside edges of the jack studs. Remove the cut portion of the plate.

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Project Details

Skill Level: Beginner

Time: 3 hours

Before you start, read this »

Due to differing conditions, tools, and individual skills, The Home Depot® assumes no responsibility for any damages, injuries suffered, or losses incurred as a result of attempting to replicate any of the home improvement ideas portrayed in this website Before beginning any home improvement project, review it thoroughly to ensure you or your contractor can finish the project and if any doubts or questions remain, consult local experts or authorities. Because codes and regulations vary greatly, you always should check with authorities to ensure that your project complies with all applicable local codes and regulations. Always read and observe all of the safety precautions provided by any tool or equipment manufacturer, and follow all accepted safety procedures.

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