Fit an Internal Door to an Existing Frame

Fitting a New Door to an Existing Frame

New internal doors can often be fitted without removing the existing door frame. This can be a suitable option when the frame is securely fixed, in reasonable condition and suitable for the size and type of the new door. The old door is removed and the existing opening is measured before the new door is prepared. Each door is fitted to the individual opening rather than assuming that all frames in the property have exactly the same dimensions. This is particularly important in older houses and apartments, where existing door frames may not be perfectly square and dimensions can vary from one opening to another.

Standard and Non-Standard Door Sizes

Both standard and non-standard size internal doors can be fitted to existing frames, depending on the dimensions of the opening and the amount of adjustment required. A new door may need to be trimmed in height, width or both to suit an existing frame. The amount that can be removed depends on the construction and type of the selected door. For this reason, the existing opening should be measured before choosing the final door size.

Different Door Styles and Materials

Keeping the existing frame does not mean that the replacement door has to match the style of the old door. Different internal door designs can be fitted, including classic, traditional, modern and contemporary styles. Doors are available in different colours, finishes and materials, including various timber options. Glazed and non-glazed internal doors can be used, as well as solid core and hollow core doors, depending on the room, existing frame dimensions and selected design.

Hinges, Handles, Latches and Locks

Fitting a new internal door to an existing frame can include positioning and fitting hinges, preparing the door for handles and latches, and fitting locks where required. Existing hardware can sometimes be reused when it is suitable for the new door and remains in good condition. Alternatively, new hinges, handles, latches or locks can be fitted as part of the work.

When Can an Existing Door Frame Be Kept?

An existing door frame can often be retained when it is securely fixed, in suitable condition and provides an appropriate opening for the new door. Older frames may have small differences in width, height or alignment. These do not automatically mean that the complete frame needs to be replaced. In many cases, the new door can be individually prepared and adjusted to suit the existing opening.

When Might the Frame Need Repair or Replacement?

If an existing frame is loose, badly damaged, significantly out of square or unsuitable for the selected door, repair or replacement may be required before fitting a new door. The condition of the frame should therefore be checked before the door is prepared.

Existing Door Frames in Older Dublin Homes

Door openings in older properties can vary considerably, even within the same house. Two doors that appear to be the same size may have slightly different openings, frame dimensions or clearances. For this reason, each existing frame can be measured individually before the new door is trimmed and fitted.

Need a New Door Fitted to Your Existing Frame?

If you would like to keep your existing door frame and fit a new internal door, send us the approximate door size, the number of doors and, where possible, photos of the existing frame. We can then discuss the type of door you would like to use and whether fitting it to the existing frame is suitable. Internal doors fitted to existing frames across Dublin and surrounding areas.