How to Install a Solid Wood Door: DIY Guide

Helpful Tips from Your Door Manufacturer – Not an Installer

At Dalmatian Doors™, we take pride in crafting high-quality, American-made solid wood doors. While many of our customers love the satisfaction of installing their own doors, it’s important to understand that we are door manufacturers — not contractors or installers. This guide is offered as a general reference only and not a substitute for professional installation advice or services.

Solid wood doors add beauty, character, and durability to any home. But because of their weight and precision requirements, they can be trickier to install than hollow-core alternatives. If you’re tackling this as a DIY project, read on for tips to help you prepare — and know when to call in a pro.

1. Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:

• Tape measure

• Carpenter’s level

• Power drill and bits

• Screwdriver

• Wood shims

• Hammer

• Hinges and screws

• Door hardware (knob, latch, etc.)

• Pencil

• Utility knife or chisel (for hinge mortising, if not pre-mortised)

• Safety glasses and hearing protection

2. Measuring for a Perfect Fit

Getting accurate measurements is the most critical part of any door install.

• Measure the rough opening of your door frame (width and height).

• Make sure the new door size allows for at least ⅛” of clearance on the top and sides, and about ½” at the bottom, depending on your flooring.

• Check that the door jamb is square — uneven frames can cause improper swings or rubbing.

Tip: If your opening is out of square, shimming and trimming may be required.

3. Preparing the Frame

• Remove the old door, hinges, and hardware if applicable.

• Clean the jamb and check for damage or rot.

• Use a level to check that the sides and top are straight.

• Add wood shims where needed to help level or support the frame.

• If you’re installing a new jamb, ensure it’s fastened securely and flush with the wall surface.

4. Hanging the Door

This part can be tricky due to the weight of solid wood.

• Mark and pre-drill your hinge locations if they aren’t pre-mortised.

• Chisel out hinge mortises carefully so the hinges sit flush.

• Attach the hinges to the door first, then set the door in the opening.

• Use shims to align the door inside the frame.

• Secure the hinges to the jamb using long screws that reach the framing studs.

Check the swing — it should move smoothly without sticking or dragging.

5. Finishing Touches

Once the door is hanging:

• Install your hardware — knobs, latches, locks — as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Adjust the strike plate as needed so the latch clicks cleanly into place.

• Check gaps all around the door; they should be even and small (⅛” is ideal).

• Apply paint or stain after installation, unless you’re concerned about fit clearance — in that case, finish the door first.

Know Your Limits, But Enjoy the Process

Installing a solid wood door can be a rewarding weekend project — especially when you’ve invested in a beautiful, handcrafted product. That said, these are heavy, high-precision components and can require fine-tuning and tools beyond the average DIY setup.

We always recommend hiring a licensed contractor or experienced carpenter for best results. But if you’re tackling this yourself, we hope this guide gives you a confident starting point.

Disclaimer: This article is intended as a general informational guide. We are not responsible for installation or site-specific conditions. For guaranteed performance, consult with a professional installer.