Can I purchase pre-cut, primed bedroom doors without the frame for easy replacement?
Asked by Veronica Giraud 
8 months ago
Last Updated: May 5, 2024
Hey, if I have to change out the bedroom doors, can I just get the doors without having to also buy the frame? I’m looking for doors that are already primed, pre-cut, and ready to hang.
Check out your nearby box store for slabs, or take a look on Facebook marketplace.
Yes, you can purchase door slabs. However, you will need to use a router to create hinge mortises and bore/counterbore holes for the knob to match the existing door jamb.
If you prefer doors that are primed, pre-cut, and ready to hang, then no, you cannot buy slabs. You can purchase slabs and use a router for hinges, plates, etc. You will also need a kit to bore holes for the door knob, among other things.
You have the option to purchase only the doors, but it’s unlikely they will be ready to hang and paint. If the hinge pockets and latch are already drilled, you’d be very fortunate if they align perfectly with your current frames. In addition, many doors need to be trimmed to fit properly due to varying flooring thickness and frames that are not perfectly square. I also suggest considering solid core doors.
Slab Doors may have a pre-drilled bore hole, but the hinges and bore plate still need to be cut. I’ve tackled this process a few times myself. If you’re not up for the challenge, consider buying a pre-hung door instead.
Appreciate it. My main concern is about doors. Are they available for purchase without the frame? I’m looking for the simplest and fastest option, not necessarily the cheapest
There are no shortcuts or easy ways. This is definitely not a DIY task. I’ve been at it for 20 years. Doors require precision and are quite tricky. 🤪
As a contractor, I can tell you that routing hinges is no easy task. It requires practice to get it just right, with precise measurements down to 1/8 inch. While big box stores do sell slab doors with pre-drilled latch holes, they may not align with your existing hardware. My advice is to purchase a slab door and use your old door as a template for hinge placement. To router the hinges, you’ll need a trim router and a Hinge Mortising Router bit with a bearing that follows your guide.
Yikes. I didn’t get the answer I was expecting when I asked, but I have faith in you all. I’ll just have to be patient until I can find someone to handle it. I’m in nyc and the prices for these services are high when hiring a contractor
Hey Elizabeth, how are your doors looking these days? Any ideas on how you want them to look?
It’s not as simple as it seems! Why bother replacing the doors when most of them can be saved with just a little effort and elbow grease?