- Should we use prehung doors?

Dear Shell,

What should we consider in deciding whether to get pre-hung interior doors or non pre-hung doors (what are those called?)? We just paid to have non pre-hung doors installed on our lower floor. Our contractor spent 1 1/2 days to install four doors and we had another contractor who spent 1 1/2 days filling holes, priming and painting the trim around the doors, (we're changing from dark wood doors and trim to white panel doors and trim). Now, none of the doors close properly (some are hinge problems, some are strike plate problems) so we will be bringing the contractor back to adjust them. Our question is: would it be less expensive or less time-consuming to install pre-hung doors? Our contractor says, "no" but we don't know enough about the differences between the two to make an informed decision. Please help us understand the difference between the two.

Thanks very much.

Caldwell

Dear Caldwell,

Unless you have a very good carpenter you will have the problem you are experiencing. My suggestion is to go to someone like Windsor Plywood in Fleetwood (Surrey) and have them pre-hang your doors for fast accurate installation. You will be glad you did. It is the way I do it.

It's just that easy

Article courtesy of: Shell Busey