Additional Security: Door Frame Support Installation

If you are looking for extra protection in your home, a security door may be the answer. Steel doors are the most common type of security door as steel is incredibly strong. This type of steel door will usually come as a door and frame kit and replacing the whole unit is much easier than just replacing the frame.

Step 1-Remove Door and Frame

First you will need to remove any existing door and frame.  This is usually not a difficult task and requires the use of a pry bar.  Get between the wall and molding with the pry bar to jimmy the molding off. 

Step 2-Detach New Door from Frame

Once you have completely finished removing the old door, lay out all the materials you will need to install the new frame and security door.  If the new door is attached to the steel frame, detach it.  It will be easier to hang the frame without the door inside of it. 

Step 3-Check the Measurements

Before erecting the frame, double check all of the measurements and levels of the opening against the frame.  Also check the wall structure.  If extra support needs to be added, do this before trying to install the frame.  Be sure to use whatever material the door manufacturer recommends.

Step 4-Caulk the Door Threshold

Before raising the frame seal the threshold floor with a good silicone caulk.

Step 5-Install Frame in Threshold

Erect the frame into the opening.  Secure the frame with shims.  Be sure to do a level check after every shim to make sure everything is plumb. 

Step 6-Insert Screws Behind Weather Stripping

After all shims are in place, you can start to attach the door by using screws behind the weather stripping, making sure to go through each hinge and checking the levels after each one. 

Step 7-Attach the Door to the Frame

Once frame is secure it is time to reattach the door.  Since the hardware is already in place, it is just a matter of screwing the hinges to the frame and the door.  You will know the door is hung correctly if you open the door and it stays still.  If the door moves inward or outward, recheck levelness and this will need to be corrected.  Also check for any gaps.

Step 8-Attach Indoor Casing

When the door is hung and everything is plumb, you can attach indoor casing, using paint if desired.

Step 9-Seal the Frame with Caulking

Before hanging outside casing or brick mould, you will need to treat the frame by sealing with your caulking.  This is to deter any water problems from occurring.