Archive for the ‘home improvement – DIY’ Category

Types Of Urinals   no comments

Urinals are specialized toilets that are used only for urinating into. These toilets are either containers or walls with drainage as well as flushing facilities. The flushing facility may be either manual or automatic.

Though these urinals are made mostly for men they can also be used by women. Urinals are found in public mens washroom. These urinals are used because they are efficient and consume less water when flushed compared to regular toilet.

They also consume less space. You also have barriers placed between urinals so that there is more privacy. These urinals are placed at different heights so that tall men can also use them.

Urinals have flushing mechanisms that rinse the urinals and prevent foul odor. There are different methods by which these flushing mechanisms can be activated.

Manual flushing mechanism

Manual flushing is considered as a standard in the United States. Each urinal has either a handle or a button which can be used to activate the flushing mechanism. The user is expected to operate the mechanism when they are finished using the urinal. You can find foot-activated flushing urinals in certain high traffic area.

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act the flush valves should not be mounted 44 inches above the finished floor. Additionally the act also requires that the maximum height at which urinals can be placed is 17 inches above the finished floor.

Timed flushing mechanism

In countries like the UK, France and Germany it is hard to find manual flushed urinals. Most of these urinals make use of a timed flushing mechanism. The urinals are rinsed at regular intervals.

It is common to find groups of ten or more urinals connected to a single cistern that is run by a timed mechanism. This system requires absolutely no action on the part of the user.

However, it will waste water if the urinals are not used at regular intervals.

Automated flushing mechanism

Automated flushes solve both problems as they work based on passive infrared sensors.

The flush mechanism activated when a person stands in front of the urinal and leaves. This does not need any activity on the part of the user as well as it does not waste water when the urinal is not used.

However, to prevent the mechanism from being activated whenever a person happens to pass the urinal a five second time period is established. That is the person has to stand in front urinal for at least five seconds before leaving then only the flush mechanism is activated.

To know more about urinals, check out Urinals Phoenix AZ. If you are ever in need of Garbage Disposal Repair Phoenix AZ, we recommend using Emergency Plumber Phoenix.

Written by chamiers on September 29th, 2011

Just Do It – Build Your Own Porch!   no comments

Posted at 7:09 am in home improvement - DIY

The front of a house seems incomplete without a veranda. In the back of your house, it can be a fantastic setting for private parties. It’s also a good place to relax after a long hard day.

Those who wish to capitalize on their power tools and carpentry skills may be interested to know how to build a porch. First, though, check if any building permits are needed and that your plans comply with local building codes. Building even an open, unscreened porch may require a permit as it is considered an extension or add-on to your house.

One of the first things to install is the footing, or posting. This supports the entire veranda and attaches it to the ground (naturally) and must be done well for good results. An easy way to determine where the posts should be located is to mark off the boundaries of your intended porch. All that needs to be done next is to dig down to the frost level; about 12 inches across for each post and pour the concrete.

One way to put in a post is to first place the post in the hole and pack dirt around it before setting it in concrete. The other involves first pouring about 8 inches of concrete in the hole, leaving it to set for a day before inserting the post. The next 2 inches are filled with rounded gravel before the rest is topped off with concrete. All concrete must be left 24 hours to dry before proceeding further.

Ledger boards are attached to the house before the deck is completely built. Usually, 2′ x 10′ boards are nailed directly onto the sill about 4 inches under the door and provide more support for the veranda. Subsequently, joists can be attached via joist-hangers that are attached to the ledger board with galvanized screws. Beams are installed atop the joists, followed by the decking material of your choice. Always use pressure-treated lumber that has been treated to be weather-resistant.

The railing you install as a final touch can be build from a railing kit obtainable from hardware stores. Once again, you are required to comply with safety standards set forth by local building codes.  Now you no need to search for a carpenter for building a porch, you yourself can build a beautiful porch.

Written by admin on June 26th, 2010

Tagged with , , ,

Do It Yourself – Repair a Washing Machine   no comments

Posted at 7:25 am in home improvement - DIY

Fixing a washing machine may depend on what issues you are having. Some problems are minor and need just a bit of tinkering while others will possibly need replacement parts and/or the services of a certified repair man. A few of these issues that may arise are shown here with guidelines on how to approach repairs.

Required Materials

Replacement Parts (if needed)

Belt

Motor

Required Tools

Pliers

Blow Dryer

Instructions

These instructions are based on each individual issue you may encounter when your machine goes awry.

For a dead machine that makes a low humming sound perform a few checks. Check to see that the hot and cold water supply lines are on. It is not impossible for the top of the pipe to maintain the on position but not necessarily be on from the shaft. Therefore you will need to unscrew the pipe line using a pliers and check to see that the shaft is actually turned in the right direction. If it is fine then check your inlet hoses, they may be clogged up from debris or frozen because of the weather conditions. If it is blocked you may try to unblock it by unscrewing the hoses and flushing them with a big gush of water, or by blowing air threw them. For frozen pipes you can possiblyslowly defrost them with a drier however, this effect will not last long if it is still very cold.

If the drum is not rotating, this may signal: a broken belt, a jammed machine as a result of an article clothing being caught in a specific section or motor issues. If it occurs because of a belt or motor issue you may have to get parts and replace them, it is best you let a professional examine the machine if this is the case. For a jammed machine inspect it properly and meticulously remove any articles of clothing you may discover in the particular area.

If the door will not open this could be the result of water still left in the machine, most times this is the case. Do not attempt to force the door open, rather have a professional look on the machine to make sure you do not accidentally damage any parts. If you have the skills needed to pump out the water yourself and the door is still closed this could indicate that the actual electrical interlocking system has deteriorated. In this case you will definitely need a professional to look on the extent of the damage.

In circumstances where there is flooding or overfilling the first thing your will need to do is check that your drain is not blocked. If it is you will have to manually clear the drain by removing any debris from it. However, if the drain is working properly then you will have to check the control system to see that the fill levels are functioning perfectly. If they are not functioning properly call a repairman to have this problem repaired, it is not likely that you will be able to alter these levels yourself.

If there is smoke in the drums this could signal a problem with the control system or fill level. Basically the heater may have come on without there being any water within the drum. Turn off the machine instantly and do not try to tinker with this issue yourself instead get a repair man to check it for you. If your machine starts working on its own still have a professional look at it just to be sure that it will not occur once more.

If the fuse blows, don’t be prompted simply to just change it this could signal a serious problem with your electrical wiring. Typically the machine should be placed on its own breaker, when this is not the case it may disrupt the normal flow of electricity to other parts of your home, hence it is important to have a qualified electrician look on your machine to avoid constant replacing of the fuse, or more unthinkable, an electrical fire.

Written by admin on June 25th, 2010

Tagged with , ,

How to Install an Above Ground Pool?   no comments

Posted at 4:45 am in home improvement - DIY

Installing an above ground pool is a much more affordable choice than building a regular below ground pool. These structures come pre-made and ready to be put in directly from the warehouse. Most people may opt to consult a professional, however, there are some who would like to get their hands involved in the process. It is not very hard to accomplish, although getting the help of someone else will make the process go much more quickly.

Prior to starting, you should read the instructions and directions that come with your pool. There may be small details that will be relevant to each design and pool system therefore ignoring these may be damaging to the completed project. Once you have understood all the things that must be executed, then you may use this guide as an additional aid in the basic installation of your pool. However, if you discover that you are unable to competently follow these written instructions, then referring to a video guide may also be beneficial.

How To Install An Above Ground Pool

Required Materials

Pre-fabricated Pool
Sand
Gorilla Pad
Coving
Patio Stones
Concrete
Screws
Bolts
Required Tools
Shovel
Level
Drill

Instructions

To begin you will need to level the ground. This is the most crucial step of the process as you cannot actually level the ground once your pool is installed. Therefore you will have to make the necessary preparations. These include, shovelling the area and making it ready for your concrete. Mixing your concrete. Putting a layer of sand on your newly shovelled ground. Placing the concrete over this area and then putting in patios sized stones as levelers to support your pool frame. Basically, shovel, mix concrete, lay sand, pour over concrete, put in patios sized stones and let set. Once you do this properly you are already ¼ of the way there. Assistance at this point would be great. In addition use a level once the base has set to make certain that it is indeed level, if it is not, you will have to make minor adjustments like pouring more concrete or reducing what has already been laid.
It is a great idea for you to install a bit of gorilla pad. This will lengthen the longevity of your pool’s lining. It is created from an especially durable material which will protect your pool from naturally occuring elements such as rocks, grass and weeds. It is basically resistant to damage from pointy objects. This padding will undoubtedly be cushioning for your pool. If your pool does not come pre-made with this type of padding, then obtain your own and cut it to suit the bottom layer of your pool.
Install your track and inner walls utilizing the manufacturer’s directions. Now your drill, bolts and screws will become necessary to the process. You may put in some coving which will make attaching the liner a quicker task and will also safeguard the liner as well. The coving will decrease the likelihood that the metal in the pool will corrode. When contrasted to sand or dirt, cove will not be washed off and will not allow the metal to be compromised by extra moisture.
After you may install your vinyl liner. Let it attach completely to the pool by enabling the sun to fully penetrate it, you can accommodate this process for an entire day and wait to full your pool with water until the following day.
The last part of installation includes filling the pool with water and setting up your pump and filtration system.

Your pool can then be used once everything is put in place. However, wait a few hours after you have dropped in the chlorine as this will be very harsh on the eyes. As always make sure that small children do not swim alone, and possibly think about getting a covering to stop pesky leaves and other forms of debris from getting in your pool. Make the most of your pool and maintain it well.

Written by admin on June 21st, 2010

How to Build a Closet   no comments

Posted at 2:25 am in home improvement - DIY

If you have storage troubles installing a closet is a good way of dealing with this issue. In many cases you can make a current closet more efficient by putting in more shelves and rods. But even in a place which had no closet previously, putting in a closet is pretty simple so if you decide to build a closet, here is a basic guide for assisting you with it. We’ll suppose that you already have walls for your closet and the closet itself is all you have to put in. Here is what you will need:

How To Build A Closet

Required Tools

Nail gun

Air compressor

Drill

Stud finder

Tape measure

Chalk/pencil

Chop saw

Required Materials

Closet Materials

1½-2 inch brad nails

1×4 boards

1¼ inch brad nails

Rod holders

Screws

Closet rod

Rod support brackets

Instructions

Initially use the tape measure to determine how much room you have for your closet. Decide how many shelves you will need, how many rods for clothes, how much door will be necessary, the movement of the door, and how much and what sort of supplies you will need to build the closet.

Utilize the chalk or pencil to sketch the design of the closet on the wall where the closet will be so that you have a rough idea of how each piece will be laid out and fit together. Use the stud finder to see where the studs are in the wall and mark them with the chalk so you can easily locate them later on.

Using the chop saw, cut your closet materials to the needed length and then proceed to insert the compressor and nail gun. Fill up the nail gun using the brad nails and you are ready to go. Start by putting up the 1×4 boards and nailing them into the studs that were previously marked. Cut the shelving material you purchased for the closet to fit the design you selected and use the 1¼ inch nails to affix them to the 1×4 stringers you joined to the walls.

Next use the drill to insert the rod holders into the 1×4 side stringers and then cut the closet rod if necessary to get it to hold and put it into the rod holders. It will function as a support for your closet shelves and rods. Then use the drill and 1½ inch screws to put up the rod support brackets a maximum of 3 feet apart; all that is left now is to put in the various shelves and your new closet is set for use.

As far as the door goes, use drywall to cover the space over where the door will be and then attach whichever door you prefer.

Tips

Sliding doors or external swinging doors are best as swinging doors. Since it can be hard to open when all the shelves and your clothes are put in.

Use putty to fill out any rough spots when you are finished.

Written by admin on June 21st, 2010

How to Measure for Replacement Windows?   no comments

Posted at 1:23 am in home improvement - DIY

There is a time when it may become necessary to replace your present windows. Quite likely this need may come about from having windows that are damaged from consistent exposure to the elements. However, there are other times where this becomes essential as a result of a need to change your homes aesthetics. There are many types of windows that can be used in the existing space. You may opt to go for sliding windows, louvred windows, hooper windows, traditional French windows, double hung windows et al. Additionally you may choose a number of materials that can add durability and or a more traditional look to your windows. The primary materials you may use are inclusive of: aluminium, fibreglass, vinyl, wood and fibrex. While aluminium will be relatively affordable, it is best suited for warmer climates where heat loss is not a problem, vinyl is a prefered choice if you live in a colder climate as is wood except that wood windows need more maintenance in the form of occasional paintings. Fibreglass is the most expensive material but still very durable and the best option for temperate climates. Fibrex is also a top notch choice as it gives you the longevity of wood combined with the reduced maintenance needs of vinyl and superb energy efficiency. If the windows you will be putting in are highly energy efficient you may be eligible for rebates from your electric provider. Taking these measurements yourself is not that hard to do, however, you will need to maintain accuracy throughout to ensure your windows will fit.

How To Measure For Replacement Windows

Required Materials

Paper (to jot down each measurement)

Required Tools

Measuring Tape

Pencil

Instructions

You know how to measure for replacement windows? Your windows will have to be measured for height width, level and square. If you are doing your measurements as a means of getting an estimate, then height and width dimensions are enough. To do this take your measuring tape and measure the two sides of your window’s length, (just in case there is a slight change) and also measure the middle of your window. Then jot down the three measurements, if they are the same, (which they should be, may only off by a centimetre at best), only one height measurement will be needed, if they are off then use the shortest height measurement for an approximation. Then get your measuring tape and measure the width of your window at being sure to maintain accuracy by putting the measuring tape from end to end of your window. Obtain some assistance if the windows are big or if you would prefer a second opinion. This kind of measurement will be perfect for vinyl, aluminium and steel windows, but only for estimate purposes as stated before.

It should be noted that you will need to write your measurements with the width measurement first, then the height the measurement in relation to the custom that most businesses will use. If you do it the reverse way without labelling appropriately height and width measurements your newly created windows will not fit. If you are measuring for wooden windows, your accuracy may be off by a few centimetres and still work because these windows may be adjusted to fit the section by sanding.

Tips

It is crucial that you measure the window sections correctly, especially if you are putting in vinyl replacements that are entirely made to fit the measurements that you give the supplier. Aim for accuracy and you will have very few issues.

Consider measuring your windows more than once, do the same area at least three times at separate times to increase accuracy, try to make it correct right down to the tiniest marking on your measuring tape. Hence even if you end up with a decimal in your final measurement at least you will be sure your windows should fit.

Written by admin on June 21st, 2010

How to Build a Tree House?   no comments

Posted at 12:59 am in home improvement - DIY

How to build a tree house

A tree house can be a wonderful way to acquire extra play area for children or may even be utilized as an entertaining area for adults in some instances. The appearance of your tree house can be modified to fit either objective. Your main goal should be to aim for durability, stability and then attractiveness. Once you use the proper materials your child’s tiny space to himself or your nature lover’s leisure spot can be moulded to suit your needs adequately. Once you have created your sturdy structure, you may put in a few lasting touches to make it even more comfortable. Ultimately this should become an outdoor escape that may very well have for a few decades or more if it is maintained effectively. Before building a tree house, choosing the appropriate plan and the best tree will be the first two things you should consider before going ahead with this project. You will also be more successful if you acquire the help of a couple friends. You can have great fun undertaking this project and you will certainly see the fruits of your labour once the tree house has been completed for use.

How To Build A Tree House

Required Materials

Lumber

Galvanized Screws

Concrete (cement, sand and gravel)

Gravel Base

Clamp

Required Tools

Jigsaw

Hammer

Post-hole digger

Drill

Level

Instructions

1.To begin get your second frame board and erect it. Then brace it for additional support. Then you will have to drop a plum bob from the board to the ground this will become the area where you will place the first post hole. Create a mark at this area and then use a post-hole digger or shovel/spade if you do not have a digger and make a hole of 2 feet in depth. If you go a little deeper that will be fine, however, be certain that enough of your post will be left to connect to your tree house structure.

2.You can now pour the gravel base into the hole; this should take up no more than 3-4 inches of the hole. Put your 4 by 4 post into the newly filled hole and utilize a post level to ensure the post is adequately vertical. After doing this re-enforce your post by clamping it to the frame board, this will stop it from swaying.

3.To secure your post some more you will now have to put in your concrete mixture around the post hole. Put a bit of water on top of the mixture to prevent air bubbles from forming. Your post will be sound after it has dried completely. Repeat this procedure for the other two posts.

4.Put up the other two frame boards to finish your base structure. Place a few galvanized screws into the corners to ensure that they are secured sufficiently.

5.Drill your posts and frames and then put in the carriage bolts properly. Put on your washer and nut and then re-enforce the two with a regular socket wrench to stop shifting. You will need to cut the tops of the posts so that they will be evenly in line with the top of the frame. You may utilize your jigsaw to get a more even cut. You can use a level to ensure that your cuts are level on top.

6.Build your ladder utilizing your two by fours. Cut them to fit the section, creating both rails and rungs. Nail them or screw them in place based on the surface and your actual preference.

7.Now you are ready to lay your planks on top of your base structure. Make sure you leave spaces in between each section of lumber. Nail them down securely.

8.Then build your wall frames using four by fours and wall studs. Place the frames around your platform and screw them securely in place.

9.Use a few pickets around your wall frame to permitextra soundness to your structure. Hold these in place using screws and a nail gun.

10.Your tree house is after all that ready to be painted and decorated as you so desire.

Tip

Before construction examine the tree properly. Have professional look at it to make sure there is no damage that you may have missed. The tree has to be healthy and able to support the weight of your tree house.

Written by admin on June 21st, 2010

How to Install a Chain Link Fence?   no comments

Posted at 12:49 am in home improvement - DIY

A chain link fence is a great way of setting boundaries around an area like your yard while still keeping the space open and being able to see all around. If you are looking for something to provide seclusion then a chain link fence is most likely not the best choice for you unless you are going to plant hedging along the fence. However, by itself a chain link fence is very poor for privacy since it is so open.

Installing a chain link fence can be quite expensive if you get a professional to do it however, with a little help it is something that you can do on your own. Here are a couple guidelines to help you install a chain link fence of your own.

How To Install A Chain Link Fence

Required Tools

Fencing

Post hole digger

Carpenter’s level

Strong string and stakes

Required Materials

Fencing

Top rails

Terminal Posts

Line posts

Cement

Tension bars

Tension bands

Terminal post caps

Loop caps

Brace bands

Carriage bolts

Wire ties

Instructions

As with all other home improvement projects, the first thing when installing a chain link fence is to check if you need any building and zoning permits before you install your fence. As soon as this is worked out you can proceed. Use string and stakes to mark out the location where the fence will run. Locate your underground utilities and stake out the area they are in so you do not meddle with them.

Use the post hole digger to dig holes 8-10 inches wide with a flat bottom and not a rounded one, in other words the posts need to rest flat in the hole. Secure your terminal posts first (corner, end and gate posts) and use the cement to keep them in position. Use the level to guarantee that the posts are straight and level.

Then, dig holes for the line posts a maximum of 10 feet apart, between the terminal posts, 4 inches shorter than the terminal posts and cement them into position as well; see to it that they are also straight.

Now slide the tension and brace bands over each terminal post and place a post cap on the top. Place loop caps on the top of each line post and run the top rail through the loop caps. Use carriage bolts to join the top rail to the brace band. Join the top rails together right around the area.

Next unroll the chain link material on the ground along the fence line and slip a tension bar through the last link on the fencing. Place the fencing against the posts and secure the tension bar to the terminal post with the tension bands and carriage bolts. Use the wire ties to secure areas of the fencing to the top rail and prevent it from sagging.

Tip

Terminal posts should be 2 inches taller than the fencing material while line posts should be 2 inches lower than the fencing material.

Written by admin on June 21st, 2010

How to Build a Shed?   no comments

Posted at 12:48 am in home improvement - DIY

How to build a shed

A shed is a wonderful way to increase the storage area for any home. There are several different kinds of sheds, some are factory made and need merely to be set up and installed using the directions of the design. However, for more handy and ambitious persons, building a shed from scratch may be more ideal. It is a fairly easy activity for a person with satisfactory carpentry experience to attempt and may actually take only one day to finish. The timeneeded will definitely be reduced if the aid of an additional person is used. A regular shed will not require a complex design, however, you should think about precise details before commencing the project. These may include the kinds of materials you prefer to utilize and the complete base structure of the shed, i.e. whether it will specifically be secured with foundation or constructed to be mobile. If constructed properly your shed will not simply be ideal for storage but an attractive addition to your current outdoor area.

How To Build A Shed

Required Tools

Hammer

Saw which may be circular or crosscut.

Framing square.

Screw driver

Stakes

Line and Level

Measuring Tape

Shovel

Required Materials

Treated lumber in a variety of pieces: 2x4s, 4x4s, 2x8s (and extra sizes for the joists, beams, rafters and skids.)

Treated plywood may be optional depending on the design.

Cable tie downs and wooden skids (for mobile sheds)

Concrete/Compactable gravel (for foundation)

Roofing material: This will depend on the style you choose, it may be shingles made from wood or fibre glass, aluminium sheeting, clay tiles, etc. In addition wood sheeting for base of the roof structure and a few metal pieces for support.

Doors

Windows

Nails

Hinges

Screws

Wood glue (optional).

Paint

Wall Studs

Cladding Boards

Instructions

1.To begin you should create the foundation. The foundation of course will depend on the kind of shed you have chosen to construct. For a shed that will be firmly placed on the ground you will have to use your concrete or compactable gravel at this part of the process. Mix the concrete with a shovel and pour it over the space you have chosen to build your shed. For the compactable gravel, prepare and then layout to cover the complete area as you would with the concrete. For a shed that requires no foundation you will start by positioning your skids in position with hammer and nails.

2.Create your flooring using the lumber you have bought for this purpose. If you were utilizing a concrete base it may be possible to tile the floor for more posh designs or leave it with only the concrete base as a kind of flooring, this may be made more becoming with paint or any other way of adding colour to the concrete. For wood flooring you will create the frame of the flooring with pieces of wood spaced at a certain distance apart in accordance with your design, secure these in place with your hammer and nails. Place the plywood over this floor frame utilizing a drill and screw or hammer and nails in relation to the method of your design.

3.Create your wall frames. You should measure these properly utilizing your line and level, measuring tape and framing square. Try to be as methodical as possible to make certain that the structure will be sound. Cut the sections of lumber with a saw or power saw. You will first need to install the wall studs and nail them in. You may position them at 2 feet apart. This should allow greater ease of putting in the 4 foot cladding boards that will be used during construction of the walls. Once the structure is erected you may go ahead and put up the wall frames, a second person would make this task an easier one. You should drill these pieces in place firmly so that they will not fall apart as soon as you begin using your shed. Nail the corner studs in position thereby completing your wall.

4.Now you can construct your roof. This will begin by utilizing your biggest piece of lumber to make a single roof beam which will be erected on top of two supporting structures. You can then designate sections for the end rafters, which should give you four at the rear and front positions. You will then cut smaller sections to make smaller rafters to finish the base of your roof structure. Ensure that you use your level at this point for greater accuracy. You can then install your ply-board over the now finished base structure. Once this has been nailed in you can then install your cover over roofing material to finish the job. You may want to think about priming your roof with paint or some other form of water proofing material before putting on the last layer of roofing material.

5.You can then install your doors and windows by cutting out spaces for them and putting them in place with your, hammer, wood glue and hinges. You may possibly only need one door and perhaps no more than two windows depending on the design.

6.You can now paint your shed and install a couple of shelves and cabinets for storage.

Tips and Warnings

Make certain the materials you use are long-lasting and will not deteriorate once they are exposed to the elements.

When working with power tools be sure that you are not close to any sources of water to avoid electrical shock, this is especially crucial if you are working during rainy periods.

To aid the design phase think about using plans that may be found at hardware stores or even via the internet to make building a lot easier.

Ensure you have carefully planned your building needs, i.e. make sure you have obtained all the essential materials and tools before you start constructing your shed. Buy in excess to avoid any delays that may arise because of insufficient materials. Some stores may enable you to return the materials within a specified time, hence reducing the possibility for wastage.

If you will be running electricity into your shed, speak to an electrician to avoid any foreseeable post-construction electrical problems.

Written by admin on June 21st, 2010

How to Install a Steel Door And Frame?   no comments

Posted at 12:35 am in home improvement - DIY

The function of a door is to provide entry and exit for a room still it must also give protection from the elements when it is closed. Steel doors are an excellent method of giving security from intruders and fires. Moreover you will not have to fret about it rotting or being eaten by insects. Here is how to put in a steel door on your own.

How To Install A Steel Door And Frame

Required Tools

Pry bar

Drill and bit set

Hammer

Screw driver

Required Materials

Steel frame and door

2 inch screws

Nails

Wall board

Wall board tape

Shims

2×4 stock

Plaster skim coating

Metal studs

Instructions

If you are replacing an existing door, the first step is to take out the existing molding. Use the pry bar to remove the molding from the wall until all the molding right around is removed. Take the screw driver and screw out the hinge pins and take out the hinges and the door; use the drill or pry bar to take out the door frame, sills and jams. Of course if there was no door in the doorway, there is no need for this step.

Next comes the framing of the wall; make sure the wall around the door is structural and set the frame in position. Nail a pair of 2×4 stocks together and place them inside the wall as a brace. Remove the studs on either side of the steel door frame and replace them with the metal ones and then screw the studs directly into the existing sill using the screws. Do the same to the header wall frame.

For the placing of the new steel door you will require the help of another individual. With the aid of your companion set the door in front of the opening and then tilt it up and into place. Level the door with the shims and set it into position; the steel door and frame may come with interior supports to keep the door straight and square.

Using the shims put the door in position between the jambs and level it by altering the shims on either side. Use the 2-inch screws to screw the lockset side of the frame to the metal stud, only screwing the screws in about halfway and then screw in the hinge side of the frame also halfway. Adjust the shims to ensure the door is still level and plumb and opens properly and then tighten the screws. When the door is securely in position remove the 2×4 frame braces.

You are almost done with your task to install a steel door and frame; all that is left is to patch the wall around the door where needed and remove the old wallboards and nail the new wallboard in position against the door frame. Plaster and tape the boards and you are done.

Tip

The level and plumb readings might change a bit while you screw the door and frame into the metal studs so watch for this and make corrections as necessary as you go along.

Written by admin on June 21st, 2010