What Is a Prehung Door? Complete Homeowner’s Guide
A prehung door comes with hinges and handle holes already drilled in the frame, so it's ready to move in place. It's already put in, so it takes less time and work than a regular slab door. Prehung doors are great for new homes, remodels, or replacing frames that are broken because they fit securely, seal better, and are easier for both homeowners and builders to install.
What Is the Difference Between a Prehung Door and a Regular Door?
A slab door and a prehung door may look the same, but they are set up and installed in different ways. A prehung door, according to Lowe’s, comes with a frame and hinges already attached. This means it is ready to fit into a rough door opening. A slab door, on the other hand, is just the door panel that needs to be manually fitted into an existing frame and lined up.
The prehung door is best for new construction or replacing a doorway that is broken because it makes sure that the frame and hinges are perfectly aligned. If your current door frame is still in good shape and you want more design, material, and finish options, a slab door is the best choice.
Definition and Structure
The door slab, a three-sided frame, hinges, and a hole already cut for the doorknob and latch are all parts of a prehung door. It's already put together, so you don't have to spend time cutting hinge mortises or fitting the strike plate. A slab door, on the other hand, is just the door itself and needs to be measure and cut perfectly before it can be put in place.
Prehung door: Comes with frame and hinges attached, ready for fast installation.
Slab door: Just the door panel; must be aligned to the existing door frame.
Interior doors: Often prehung for easy installation during new construction.
Exterior doors: Prehung entry doors offer better sealing and help keep your home safe.
When to Choose Prehung vs. Regular Doors
Your choice depends on the project and the condition of your existing frame. If your old frame is damaged, a pre hung door is more efficient because it comes with a new frame and ensures a proper fit. If your frame is solid and the goal is aesthetic, a slab door provides design flexibility and saves money.
For new construction: Choose prehung to simplify installation and ensure alignment.
For remodeling projects: A slab is ideal if your frame and trim are still in good shape.
For design control: A slab lets you paint or finish the door to match your décor.
Before installation: Measure the rough opening carefully and add shims to keep the frame level.
What Are the Disadvantages of a Prehung Door?
Prehung doors are convenient, but they also have some problems. Door Design Lab says that these doors can be more expensive, heavier, and harder to open and close by yourself. The door, frame, and hinges are all pre-assembled, so even a small misalignment can make it hard to close or latch.
Common Downsides of Prehung Doors
A slab door doesn't need as much space or as careful installation as a prehung door. If you don't get the rough opening right, the frame won't fit flush against the wall. During installation, you may also need to add shims to fix surfaces that aren't level.
Weight: Prehung doors are bulkier and require two people to install.
Cost: They cost more upfront than slab doors but save labor time.
Space: The attached frame takes up more room when maneuvering.
Adjustment: May need extra trimming or shimming for older walls.
When a Prehung Door Isn’t the Best Choice
A prehung door isn’t ideal for tight spaces or minor upgrades. If your frame is strong and straight, replacing just the door slab is more practical. It gives you more design control and works well for interior updates.
Budget projects: A slab door costs less when reusing an existing frame.
Tight rooms: Slabs are easier to fit in smaller spaces.
Design freedom: Slabs allow more styles, colors, and finishes.
Pro tip: If you install prehung doors, check the frame alignment and hinge placement before securing it in place.
Are Prehung Doors Easier to Install?
Putting in a new prehung door is usually easier and faster than putting in a slab door. Doors Los Angeles says that a prehung door comes with the door slab already attached to the frame and hinges. This means that measuring and cutting the door is not as necessary, which saves time during setup. All you have to do is put it in the rough opening, make sure it's level, and use shims and screws to hold it in place.
Comparing Installation and Labor
A new door that has already been hung makes the job easier because the frame, hinges, and precut mortises are all lined up. This means you don't have to mark holes for hinges or drill for hardware. The door jamb fits neatly into the opening, making the fit smooth and even.
Ease of setup: The frame and hinges come attached for quicker assembly.
Time-saving: No need to create hinge mortises or pre-cut holes manually.
Alignment: Hardware included ensures a consistent and balanced door swing.
DIY-friendly: Great for beginners replacing or installing a new door on their own.
Professional vs. DIY Installation
While it’s possible to install prehung doors yourself, professional installation ensures perfect alignment, especially for exterior doors. Steel and fiberglass doors are heavier and require extra care to avoid gaps or uneven sealing. Professionals also make sure the door jamb is plumb and that the door closes securely.
DIY projects: Ideal for simple interior door installation if you follow clear instructions.
Professional help: Needed for heavier steel or fiberglass doors to prevent frame warping.
Inspection: Always check the doorframe and wall are square before fitting.
Final step: Test the hinges and latch to ensure smooth operation.
What Typically Comes with a Prehung Door?
For easy installation, a new prehung door comes in a complete package with all the parts you need. Grand Entry Doors says the door comes with a frame that is already put together, hinges, and doorknob and latch holes that have already been cut. Some models come with door hardware like strike plates and weatherstripping, but you have to buy lock and handle sets separately.
Components and Materials
There are many types of materials for prehung doors, such as wood, steel, and fiberglass. Each has its own benefits. Wood doors are warmer and give you more design options, but steel and fiberglass doors are more durable and don't need as much upkeep.
Included components: door slab, three-sided frame, hinges, and pre-cut holes.
Material options: wood for natural appeal, steel for strength, and fiberglass for durability.
Hardware included: Strike plate and weatherstripping for a tight seal.
Design benefit: Allows more design options to match your interior or exterior décor.
Preparing for Installation
Before installing, ensure the rough opening and doorframe are measured accurately. Even a small gap can cause uneven closing or air leaks. The door jamb must be level and properly supported during fitting to avoid alignment issues.
Measure carefully: Check the width, height, and depth of the opening.
Add shims: Use shims to balance the door jamb and keep it level.
Inspect materials: Look for scratches or dents before installing the new prehung door.
Finishing touch: Paint or stain the frame to create a polished, complete look.
Final Thoughts
You can choose between a slab door and a prehung door based on your project and the condition of the frame. A prehung door is the best choice for a full replacement or new building because it comes with the frame, hinges, and hardware holes already cut out and ready to go. If, on the other hand, your old frame is still in good shape, a slab door may be the best way to save money and give you more design options. Always carefully measure your opening to make sure the door fits right and installs easily.
FAQs
How do I know if a prehung door is the right choice?
A prehung door is the right choice if you’re replacing a damaged frame or starting new construction.
Is a slab door the right choice for remodeling projects?
Yes, a slab door is the right choice when your frame is solid and you want to customize the design.
What makes prehung doors the right choice for homeowners?
They’re the right choice because they save time, reduce installation errors, and include all key components.
Can a professional help me decide the right choice between door types?
Yes, professional installers can help you determine the right choice based on your home’s structure.
Are steel or wood doors the right choice for exterior use?
Steel doors are usually the right choice for strength, while wood offers a classic look for exterior style.
