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Category — Doors

How to Choose the Right Door For Your New Room Addition

First impressions make the best impressions. The style of your door sets the tone of your house and gives it curb appeal. Pick a door that will blend into the rest of your house An example would be to have a raised panel door on your house, if your house is a colonial one.


If your house is a cape cod then a more simple design for the door would be appropriate. Doors come in different materials, wood, composite material, and metal. Also available are solid core doors for the exterior and hollow core doors for the interior.


When it comes to closets or utility rooms you may want bi-fold doors with louvers, they are attractive, low cost, and provide ventilation. Another consideration is to include french or sliding doors to the outside. These doors tend to open up your view to the outside, provide extra light, and seem to enlarge your room. You can buy them in aluminum or wood for easy painting. Make sure your general contractor installs the doors while he is building the room addition, hanging a door is not a job for a novice.


One last and important detail before your contractor installs your exterior door. Make sure he installs flashing around the top, sides and bottom of the door. This will keep the cold, rain, and snow from entering the interior.


These tips will assist you to make the right decisions for your room addition doors. It will also make the general contractors work a lot easier if you know what you want.

Sy Kuperman has been in the remodeling business for over 30 years. He has encountered every type of problem that may happen. His address is http://www.abilityconstruction.biz.

March 1, 2010   No Comments

How to Build a Screen Door

Constructing a screen door is a good solution to keep your abode properly ventilated while also preventing bothersome mosquitoes from entering your residence. The screen should be constructed according to the overall size of the entrance of your home so that it looks good. You can also install a curtain to add more privacy.

MATERIALS NEEDED IN BUILDING A SCREEN DOOR

Some of the materials that you need for your screen door are paintbrushes, brushes for glue, polyurethane glue, one inch nails, one by one cleats, screening mesh, hardware frame for the door and varnish.

TOOLS

The tools that you needed to make your project are staple gun, tape measure, size 10C clamps, staples, knife, saw, ¾ inches chisel, a ¼ inches x ¾ inches screen molding, a 5/4 of 1 ¼ lumber frame, spade, nails and hammer.

STEPS IN BUILDING YOUR SCREEN DOOR

Carefully place the needed parts so that they are accessible when you begin placing the whole thing together. You can either acquire pre-cut lumber for the parts of your screen or you can measure the parts that you needed yourself. You have to make sure that you place the necessary labels on the parts to avoid any complications later.

Place the wooden boards into the machine that holds the saw and manipulate it in the appropriate direction. You can attach horizontally a board on to a pair of other board with screws at a ninety degrees angle. A pair of the lower wooden boards could be place on the workbench which could help secure the jig square properly.

Place the cutting depth of the machine to half the board’s thickness and start cutting it one at a time-slowly moving machine back and forth until you have finish the whole board. The chisel will help you smooth out the joints of the wooden board.

To assemble the screen door, place the different parts together to make sure that every fits perfectly. Once you are sure that the parts fit correctly, use polyurethane glue to connect it. Use a disposable brush to place glue in the joints of your project.

Use the C-clamps to secure the door’s joints. You can only tighten the C-clamps after you are sure that the shape of each individual joint is a flawless square. You can check if the entrance is a perfect square if the diagonals are equal. Wait until the glue dries before doing the next step.

You should varnish the frame before placing the screen. Attach the screen mesh thoroughly on the door frame and make sure that there are no uneven areas. Secure the screen with staples and place the stiles around it. Shave the screen edges with a knife to give it a more refine look. Place the molding around the edges of the screen to cover the staples.

Once the whole door is prepared, you can attach the frame. There are numerous choices so feel free to choose whatever matches your taste. You can also place hinges made out of spring and handle on both sides of your door to make things easier.

Please click these links if you want to know more about how to build a screen door or how to build a screen door in general.

January 29, 2010   No Comments

How to Install a Steel Door and Frame

A door is a significant feature of the house. It is the only acknowledged entry and exit point of any buildings or houses. That’s why a door should be strong and durable enough to keep away intruders and other unwanted elements that could ruin one’s home and properties.

An example of durable and strong material is the steel. A steel frame and door can be installed in anyone’s house if the owner seeks more security and safety. Here are the basic steps on how to install a steel door and frame.

1. Gather and prepare all the needed materials.

The required materials are the following:
- Kit for steel frame and door
- One and half inches screws
- Two inches screws
- Screw driver
- Wall board and a wall board tape
- Shims
- Plaster skim coating

The necessary tools for the installation are:
- Pry bar
- Drill that has a bit set
- Coping saw
- Eight pieces of nails
- Hammer

2. Remove the existing frame, door and molding.

First, remove the existing door’s molding. Use the pry bar and put it in between the molding and the wall. At the top, pull away gently the molding from the wall until it loose. Do the same at the bottom part and then in the middle part. Keep on doing this until the molding is removed.

Do the same steps in the present doorway. Push out the hinge pins of the hinge and detach the door. Using the screw driver, remove the hinges by unscrewing. In case the frame of the door jam is screwed in position, move the drill in reverse motion and back until the screws are pull out. Detach the frame, sills and jams.

3. Do the wall framing.

Check if the wall that supports the door is structural. If it is, use a pair of 2 inches x 4 inches stock nailed together and placed inside the wall. Detach the stud on each side of the new steel door frame. Replace the studs with metal ones. Directly screw to the existing sill. Use the screws. Do the same to the header wall frame. Put on blocking where the door system requires support.

4. Place the new steel door.
This step requires a helper. With the aid of a companion, put on the door’s bottom to the opening of the door. Tilt up the door to its place. Level it by using the shims and adjust the door until it fits into place. The kit may include interior supports that help the door package remain square. Measure from the intact floor to the sill’s top to get the height. If there is a carpet, do not measure from it.

5. Shim the door.
Use the thin sheet of shims (shingles) to bring the door slowly into plumb. Leverage by maneuvering the shims of each side of the frame and between the metal studs and the frame. Apply the same steps to the header part of the floor and frame. The plumb reader and level slightly change as the metal suds are screwed of the door and frame. Adjustments might be necessary.

6. The frame is screwed.
The kit has two inches screws which should be used in the metal stud and lockset part of the frame. Screw down only halfway to the stud or until its strong enough to give support to the placed package. Alter the shims at the lockset area of the frame and those found in the sill. Alter also the hinge area of the placed frame and door. Level the door by adjusting the shims and the plumb should be easily opened. The screws should be tightened and the frame braces can now be removed.

7. Patch the wall.
Take away the wall boards that were placed on the sides of the doorway. Nail down new wall boards as replacements so that it fits against the steel door frame. Plaster and tape the boards.

Installing a steel frame and door is easy if there is help available and the materials and tools needed are all present. Make sure that the installed door and frame are placed properly so that it would function well and there is no need to repeat the installation.

Please click these links if you want to know more about how to install a steel door and frame or how to install a steel door and frame in general.

January 28, 2010   No Comments

Interior Doors – Often Overlooked in Home Improvement Projects

Doors are probably one of the most overlooked architectural elements of a home. People are painting rooms, replacing carpeting or buy new furniture, but they hardly ever replace doors or think much about doors. That’s peculiar as doors can change or enhance the look of a room or a home. That goes both for interior and exterior doors. How often have you formed your opinion of a home just by looking at its front door? And how often do we judge the overall quality of a home by what king of interior doors there are? Fact is that the design, color and finish of doors can make a huge difference in appearance, comfort and also security of a home.

Another interesting thing is that most people really don’t know much about doors at all. For example, there is a big difference between solid wood doors and wood veneer doors. Likewise, few know the difference between raised panel, flat panel and flush designs, and how they each have a very distinct look and application. And it is not generally known that doors are available in a very wide variety of wood types, each with a different color, feel and grain. So if you go from that rustic look, Knotty Alder doors are available. If the goal is exquisite elegance, Honduran Mahogany may be the answer. And for a bright, cheerful look there are different types of Birch.

Doors also come in many different designs that can create a certain look or provide a special emphasis. There are designs that look classic, elegant, imposing, rustic, modern, simple, playful or elaborate. Doors may also include glass or other inserts, depending on their intended purpose. Glass can be clear, frosted, obscure, or have patterns (like reed or rain) and colors. And while doors come in an almost endless variety of shapes, colors, designs and forms to choose from, custom doors provide a way to even greater individualization. Finally, don’t forget wood moldings and trim as they can add that finishing touch that really sets a design apart.

Another great way to customize the look and feel of doors is through door knows, handles levers and even hinges. There is a wide selection of designs and materials, including brass, bronze, porcelain, steel or even wrought steel. Here again, some designs convey elegance and style whereas others go for a playful or modern look. Make sure there is a good match between your selection of doors and door hardware. While high quality hardware can greatly improve the appearance of inexpensive doors, using cheap hardware on expensive doors is hardly ever a good idea.

There is, of course, also a huge difference between interior doors, which primarily provide separation and privacy, and exterior doors, which are part of the exterior design of a home and also provide protection and security. Exterior and entry doors are among the most important architectural feature of our homes, and the right design, material, size and color can really make a statement.

The bottom line is this: doors are important parts of our homes. Cheap, basic doors may serve their purpose, but there’s a wealth of interior and exterior door options that can really improve a home and set it apart. Don’t limit yourself to what’s in stock at the local hardware store. Check with a company that specializes on doors on selections, styles, installation and anything else you want to know.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web.
Learn more about Interior Doors.

January 27, 2010   No Comments

Sliding Closet Doors

Sliding closet doors are one of the most common types of closet door around today. The main advantage of having these types of doors is the convenience and accessibility to clothing and whatever else is behind them because the doors fold in and thus do not get in the way of what you are looking for inside. If you lead a busy life, consider this style of door to help save time.

Many people do not think about what is on the outside of their closet, they are only concerned about how much room they have on the inside. The door is one of the most important aspects though because it is what complements your entire bedroom. That is why sliding closet doors are such a good idea because you can find some very well designed doors.

If you have a long walk in closet then sliding closet doors would be an excellent addition. One concern people have with these style doors is that they are afraid the doors will come off the rails and they will not be able to re-attach them. If the doors are properly installed then you should not have a problem with them coming off the rails. Some poorly installed doors or some lesser quality doors will perhaps squeak quite often when sliding.

When researching the available sliding closet doors you would be better off getting as good a quality door as possible if your budget allows for it. Preferably, look for one that comes with silent rails and a damper system so that the doors do not slam into the door jams.

What type of sliding closet doors should you purchase? Some come with mirrors on both halves. This is a good choice if you happen to have a smaller room; mirrors give the impression of a larger room. Another advantage of this style is that you will be able to see yourself from head to toe, as this is important for many professionals who have to dress in business ware. Another choice of glass on the doors is frosted or smoked glass, which offer a different look.

Another option for your sliding closet doors is to choose a wood finish or a wood laminate finish. If you choose wood then your doors will be quite a bit heavier than the laminate choice. However, for sheer beauty then wood is the much better choice as most laminate does look a little cheaper. Regardless of the style or type of doors you choose, you should do your research, both online and offline. Keep an eye out for any sales at your local home supply centers. This type of purchase may best be done at a brick and mortar store rather than on the internet as you will need to do some measuring and maybe even some adjustments will need to be made at the home improvement center or hardware store where you have made your purchase.

Visit our site for Valuable information on installing replacement windows, sliding closet doors, Bali vertical blinds and other home improvement ideas.

by T.D. Houser

October 22, 2009   No Comments

Antique Doorknobs – Perfect For Making Your Home Stand Out

If you want your home to truly have a unique appearance, then you need to think out of the box when you are doing your decorating. Now, you don’t want to go to over the top with things because you don’t want your space to have this strange, gaudy look. But, you still need to do things a bit differently and one great option for doing just that are by purchasing antique doorknobs for your home’s doors.

Antique doorknobs have a spectacular appearance and there is one of two ways that you could purchase yours for your home. First off, you could actually get real antique ones that are hundreds of years old, which would be pretty awesome since you would have a part of history sitting in your home. The bad thing about going this route is that it can be hard to find enough of the actual doorknob that you want. And, things can get a little costly too, so much so that it might not even be worth it.

Now, the other way that you could go for purchasing them for your space is by going with antique reproductions. They have the same look and feel as the original ones, but they are not as expensive and it’s easier to get as many as you want in terms of one particular style since they are made by manufacturers each and every day.

You might not think it, but they are actually available in a ton of different styles and can be made from a lot of materials. For example, you can get one that is made from glass that features a swirling design and has a brass finished base. Or, you can get another one that is also made of glass, but this time around it is just a smooth round shape and has a rose tint to it. Another option is that you can get one that is crafted out of white ceramic that is adorned with a brilliant floral design that also is supported by a brass base. And, yet another example is one that is made entirely of brass, but has an oval shape and a distressed finish.

Quite simply, when it comes to antique doorknobs, the sky is the limit in terms of what you can get. To check out all the choices, the place to go is the World Wide Web. That’s right, the Internet is the new shopping mall of our time. It lets you shop for items without even leaving your home because when you do make a purchase, it will be shipped right to you. Really, nothing is more convenient and what’s even better is that what you do buy will generally be at more reasonable prices than the options in the store down the street from you.

So, if you want to make your home stand out, do something a little different and install some antique doorknobs and your doors. It will add a unique decorative touch to your space and will have everyone gossiping for the right reasons.

Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops that offer both products and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it’s your living, bedroom, or even your deck or patio, there are many tips you can use to make your space both functional and beautiful. Today, she shares her insight on how to create a fabulous indoor area by using gorgeous antique doorknobs, sparkling glass door knobs and gem-like glass doorknobs.

October 21, 2009   No Comments

Style And Design Combined In Custom Sliding Doors

Custom sliding doors is becoming a trend to most modern homes today. This is because it suits the personal style, taste, and preference of individual people residing inside the house.

Technically, sliding screen doors refer to a type of door that can that be opened horizontally by sliding it. It is usually mounted or suspended using a track to ensure its safety and stability. The most common types of sliding doors today are bypass doors, Arcadia doors, and pocket doors, which are typically used in shower and wardrobe areas.

But, as times go by, more and more companies offer them to cater to the needs of people who have unique ideas for their homes or those homeowners who are having problems in their home spaces. Usually, people opt for the doors because they cannot find the size of the door they need in the regular hardware store. To ensure that they get the exact measure that will fit their door spaces, they opt for custom designed services. By doing this, they are sure that they won’t be wasting money in buying something that won’t fit or paying somebody that will adjust the door but will fail in the end because of incorrect calculations.

Before looking for shops that offer the doors, make sure that you have conducted a simple research about the product. You can do this by surfing the Internet and looking for websites that provide information on the product. This is very important to ensure that you are knowledgeable enough once you talk to a service man that will work on your sliding door.

After having enough information on the doors, the next thing to work on is how to place an order. Some companies out there offer online ordering. This is not really ideal since you cannot see the final product before they ship it to you. It is always best to go to the shop personally to ensure that they are getting the exact specifications of them.

After knowing everything you need to know about the doors, make a list of shops that offer the service and visit each one of them. Make sure that you have the list of the top five shops that are within your area so you can get there easily. Aside from saving you the hassle of traveling, choosing shops near your place will also make it easier for you to come back when there is a problem.

For tips on choosing sliding doors, visit http://www.slidingdoors101.com

October 20, 2009   No Comments