When it comes to installing or replacing doors in your home, prehung doors are one of the most convenient and efficient options available. Unlike slab doors, which are just the door itself without any hardware or frame, prehung doors come fully assembled with the door, hinges, and frame, making installation much easier.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about prehung doors, including:

• What Are Prehung Doors?

• Advantages of Prehung Doors

• Types of Prehung Doors

• How to Install a Prehung Door

• Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Prehung Doors vs. Slab Doors

• Cost Considerations

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether prehung doors are the right choice for your home improvement project.

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What Are Prehung Doors?

A prehung doors is a complete door system that includes:

• The door slab (the actual door)

• A pre-attached frame (jamb)

• Hinges (already mounted)

• A door stop (the trim that prevents the door from swinging too far)

• Often includes a pre-cut hole for the doorknob and latch

Prehung doors are designed to be installed as a single unit, eliminating the need to mortise hinges or align the door with the frame manually. They are commonly used in new construction and renovations because they save time and ensure a proper fit.

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Advantages of Prehung Doors

1. Easier Installation

Since the hinges and frame are already aligned, installing a prehung door is much simpler than hanging a slab door. This is especially helpful for DIYers who may not have experience with door installation.

2. Better Fit & Alignment

Prehung doors are manufactured to precise specifications, reducing the risk of misalignment, sticking, or uneven gaps.

3. Saves Time

Because the door comes pre-assembled, installation is faster than building a frame and hanging a slab door separately.

4. Includes Necessary Components

Most prehung doors come with everything needed (hinges, frame, and sometimes even weatherstripping), so you don’t have to purchase additional parts.

5. Ideal for New Construction & Replacements

Whether you’re building a new home or replacing an old door, prehung doors provide a seamless solution.

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Types of Prehung Doors

Prehung doors come in various styles, materials, and configurations to suit different needs:

1. Interior vs. Exterior Prehung Doors

• Interior prehung doors are designed for rooms inside the home (bedrooms, bathrooms, closets).

• Exterior prehung doors are built for entryways and are more durable, often featuring weatherstripping and insulation.

2. Material Options

• Wood – Classic and elegant but requires maintenance.

• Fiberglass – Durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance.

• Steel – Strong and secure, ideal for exterior doors.

• MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) – Affordable and smooth, often used for painted interior doors.

3. Swing Direction (Left-Hand vs. Right-Hand)

Prehung doors are sold with a designated swing direction. To determine the correct swing:

• Stand outside the door (facing where the door opens toward you).

• If the hinges are on the left, it’s a left-hand door.

• If the hinges are on the right, it’s a right-hand door.

4. Prehung Door Sizes

Standard sizes include:

• Interior doors: 28”, 30”, 32”, or 36” wide, 80” tall.

• Exterior doors: Usually 36” wide, 80” tall (some may be 96” for grand entries).

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How to Install a Prehung Door

Installing a prehung door is a manageable DIY project if you follow these steps:

Tools & Materials Needed:

• Prehung door unit

• Shims

• Level

• Hammer & nails (or screwdriver & screws)

• Drill

• Tape measure

• Caulk & weatherstripping (for exterior doors)

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Remove the Old Door (If Replacing)

   • Take out the existing door and frame, ensuring the rough opening is clean and level.

2. Dry Fit the Prehung Door

   • Place the prehung door into the opening to check for fit.

3. Check for Level & Plumb

   • Use a level to ensure the door is perfectly vertical (plumb) and horizontal (level).

4. Secure the Frame with Shims

   • Insert shims between the frame and wall studs to keep the door straight.

   • Nail or screw the frame in place.

5. Test the Door Swing

   • Open and close the door to ensure smooth operation.

6. Trim Excess Shims & Apply Finishing Touches

   • Cut off protruding shims and install trim (casing) around the frame.

   • Caulk gaps for a clean finish (especially for exterior doors).

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Measuring Correctly – Always double-check the rough opening size before purchasing.

2. Skipping Shims – Without shims, the door may warp or stick over time.

3. Ignoring Level & Plumb – A misaligned door won’t close properly.

4. Forgetting Weatherstripping (Exterior Doors) – This can lead to drafts and energy loss.

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Prehung Doors vs. Slab Doors: Which Is Better?

Verdict: If you’re replacing an entire door unit, prehung is the best choice. If only the door slab is damaged, a slab door may suffice.

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Cost Considerations

• Interior prehung doors: $100–$500+ (depending on material & design)

• Exterior prehung doors: $300–$2,000+ (steel & fiberglass are pricier)

• Labor (if hiring a pro): $150–$300 per door

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Final Thoughts

Prehung doors offer a hassle-free solution for door replacement and new installations. Their pre-assembled design saves time, ensures proper alignment, and simplifies the process for DIYers.

Whether you’re renovating your home or building from scratch, prehung doors provide durability, convenience, and a professional finish. Just remember to measure accurately, use shims, and check for level during installation.

Ready to upgrade your doors? Browse prehung options at your local home improvement store or consult a professional for the best results!