Are your doors looking outdated? While there are numerous creative ways to refresh their appearance, sometimes replacing an old door is the best solution. When exploring options, you’ll typically encounter pre-hung and slab doors. The primary distinction is that a pre-hung door comes with its frame and is already mounted. If you’re searching for the ideal front door, you might prefer pre-hung doors due to their straightforward installation and weather protection. However, there are some disadvantages and drawbacks to consider before installation, such as cost, weight, and the challenge of correctly aligning the frame.
Both pre-hung and slab doors have pre-cut holes for a doorknob, though the knob isn’t included. Essentially, a pre-hung door is a slab door already attached to a frame, complete with hinges. The setup is also pre-cut for the strike plate. This makes it an appealing choice for DIY enthusiasts who prefer not to construct a door frame. Ideally, the frame and door should seamlessly fit into place for quick attachment. However, in practice, the setup can be cumbersome to handle and may not align perfectly with the rough opening.
Reasons to reconsider pre-hung doors
While pre-hung doors are designed to fit into rough openings, moving them to the installation site involves heavy lifting and generally requires two people. The weight of a pre-hung door can vary from 50 to over 100 pounds, depending on the door type. Additionally, you must manage the bulkiness of the frame while transporting the door. Once at the rough opening, positioning the unit correctly can be challenging due to its heft.
Pre-hung doors are also more expensive than slab doors. The average material cost for a pre-hung door ranges from $125 to $400, whereas slab doors typically cost between $60 and $300, as noted by Angi. This price difference makes sense since pre-hung doors include the frame and hinges. Remember, you’ll need additional hardware for a slab door, which can raise the cost, and materials might be necessary to construct a frame if one isn’t already present.
Despite their higher cost, pre-hung doors often have fewer size options, complicating the installation of non-standard size doors. Even with a correctly sized pre-hung unit, shimming is required to ensure a proper fit. Installation errors can result in doors that don’t open and close smoothly. The process is more complex if the frame shifts or sustains damage during shipping. Given their multiple components, pre-hung doors are more prone to defects.
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