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-   -   Rehanging a door - so it opens the other way (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=285057)

  • Nov 25, 2008, 10:10 AM
    voron
    Rehanging a door - so it opens the other way
    Hi guys

    I need some advice on how to "flip" my bedroom door. Right now it opens into the room, and I want it to open "out".

    Can it be with not too much mess? I guess I'll need to turn the door frame but I have no idea how without damaging the wall (common plasterboard).

    I'd appreciate any help I can get, but plain terms are preferred... I'll need a foolproof solution as I am not much of a DIY - door knobs and lightbulbs is all I'm good for :)

    Thanks!
  • Nov 26, 2008, 04:23 AM
    rtw_travel

    The easiest way is to remove the trim on each side of the door. You may have to score the paint with a knife so that it does not peel away from the wall when you pull the trim off. Then use something like a sawzall to cut the nails holding the door in place.

    Remove the door as an entire unit (i.e. door and frame together), flip around and nail back in. It may be a bit tricky depending on how the carpet/ tile/ floor was installed around the door. Reinstall the trim.

    Its not that difficult - probably half and hour to an hour from start to finish. However, it may not be the job for someone who is not that handy. Any friends who can come over and help?
  • Nov 26, 2008, 04:36 AM
    voron
    Thanks! That does sound easy enough indeed. I only have a problem comprehending this:

    Quote:

    Originally Posted by rtw_travel View Post
    ...use something like a sawzall to cut the nails holding the door in place...

    Can you please clarify?

    Thanks again, cheers
  • Nov 26, 2008, 09:26 AM
    KBC

    A door frame is nailed to the 2X4 studs,using a sawzall,one can simply cut the nails off behind the frame allowing the removal.

    Chances are you won't have any problem with this.

    KBC
  • Dec 2, 2008, 12:01 PM
    amsteube
    A sawzall is the common name for a reciprocating saw if that is what you need clarification on. Here are a few other tips that will help you.

    1. As was said earlier, make sure to score around the trim or you will be repainting your walls.

    2. Have shims on hand, can be picked up at a local hardware store and are used to level the door and give it a snug fit in the opening.

    3. Have either a finish nailer and a compressor or a nail set to sink the nails when you reinstall the trim, to avoid damaging the casing.

    Depending on how the floor coverings were done this is easier a very simple or very difficult job. Make sure you know what you are doing before you start. Also having another set of hands to hold the door while you level and nail makes this much smoother.

    Here is a good step-by-step guide of your project:

    How to Install an Interior Door | eHow.com

    Aaron
  • Dec 5, 2008, 04:07 PM
    shoproland

    If you don't want to change the direction of the swing (keep the door hinges on the same side), then don't remove the door jamb. Just take the door down, remove all the hardware, and I tell you what. Just email me and I'll walk you through it. It's easier to do than to write. Shoot me a mail at [email protected] and we'll get you fixed up.
  • Dec 5, 2008, 05:10 PM
    voron
    1 Attachment(s)
    Thanks all. Hopefully will get to it this weekend. Or next ;)

    to shoproland: just to be clear, this is what I'm after (MS Paint rocks):
  • Dec 5, 2008, 05:34 PM
    shoproland
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by voron View Post
    Thanks all. Hopefully will get to it this weekend. Or next ;)

    to shoproland: just to be clear, this is what I'm after (MS Paint rocks):

    All you need to do is mirror your hardware, remove the three pieces of doorstop, plug existing holes and mortises, rehang door and replace doorstop. This is a vague instruction but I can help with the particulars as they come.
  • Dec 5, 2008, 06:39 PM
    voron

    Project moved to Sunday - even with best advise I'll still need all the help I can get :)

    Still, I'm surprised that nowhere on the internet there is a good photo/video tutorial on this. I mean come on, YouTube has like a thousand clips on how to do a rubic's cube - but nothing that's actually useful??

    to shoproland: I have sent you a message on the email address you provided.
  • Dec 5, 2008, 10:38 PM
    amsteube
    For the door to open the way you want it to the swing is going to have to be changed. Are you familiar with how to use a router? One will be needed to achieve what you are after. Also if the door opening is stained you will always be able to see where you filled the mortisses and holes.

    Aaron

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