How to Install a Door in a Masonry Block Wall: Part 2

Once you have a hole cut into the masonry brick wall you can then begin the process of installing the actual door frame. This portion of the installation is a little easier than cutting out the bricks as you will not need to use a heavy saw in the process. For the most part, the door is going to be included in a metal, pre-hung door frame. Here are the steps to installing the door frame into the masonry brick wall to finish off your project. (This is Part 2 of 2. To return to Part 1, click here.)

Step 1 - Seal Bottom Jamb

Before you lift the metal door frame into the opening that you just cut out, you will need to apply some caulking to the bottom of the door sill. This will provide a watertight seal in the case of rain or any runoff in the area.

Step 2 - Wrap Opening with Insulate Paper

After the bottom of the sill has a layer of caulking you should also wrap and secure a water vapor around the door frame.

Step 3 - Stand Up Door

Take your door frame and stand it in the hole opening. Place a level on the bottom of the frame to ensure that it is level. Add shims to the jamb or the header until the door is completely level and plumb. Once the door frame is level you can then stuff insulation around the opening to create an airtight seal. You can also use some spray insulation where there is only a little opening.

Step 4 - Fasten the Frame

Once the frame has been sealed you will then need to fasten it to the sill, header, and sides. This is done with an impact gun and concrete anchors. Line up the concrete screws in portions of the wall where there is no mortar. Drill into the side of the frame and the mortar. Use the impact gun to fasten the concrete screws through the holes you just drilled. Make sure as you are driving the anchors in position that you do not over-drill. This will bend the frame and cause it to be out of level.

Step 5 - Hang Door

Once the door frame is in position, you will then need to hang the door. Place the door near the hinges and insert the hinge pin. Use a hammer and tap the pin all the way into the hinge for a secure fit. Move the door back and forth to ensure that the frame is level and the door moves freely.

Step 6 - Finish off Door Installation

Now that the frame and the door are both installed into your masonry brick wall you can finish off the project. You will need to place trim around the wall and frame for a finished off look. Cut out the pieces of trim with a miter saw and begin installing it to the brick. You will need to use construction adhesive for this portion as finish nails are not going to be nailed into the mortar. Hold the piece of trim to the wall and hold it for a few seconds. The construction adhesive is very strong and will adhere fairly quickly.