Is It Possible To Make An Internal Door Smaller?

If you cannot find an adequate door to cut down, the only option is to build out the frame to accommodate a smaller door. Once you select the door that works for you, build out the framing on top and sides. Trimming most internal doors, including hollow core doors, is possible to get the exact fit you need. While there isn’t a’standard’ legislation for door size, there is a set of guidelines. Customary interior doors require 2″ (51 mm) for width and 2 ½” (64 mm) for height. However, each door manufacturer has their own R.O. requirements for every model they make, such as fire-rated doors. Trimming the door may require reducing the door’s width, which can be done yourself and save the money it would take to hire a professional.

To make a door frame smaller, you can use plaster glue to narrow the door opening. This option is suitable in cases where the walls of the room were finished with plaster. Building regulations stipulate that this be kept at 1.8 or lower for new installations, which means internal doors don’t qualify. To do this, take a hollow core and rip everything off the hinge side. Then, remove the door skin from your offcut and glue it into the cut. You can safely trim off 1/8 from each side to reduce the slab to 29 3/4. Make sure to take off from each side evenly if it’s a new paneled door.

How much can I trim off a solid door?

Internal door manufacturers typically recommend a trimming tolerance of 5mm per side, except for LPD which allows 3mm. If you need to trim a lot, you may have the wrong size and may be able to buy exactly what you need. If you need to trim to 6mm or 7mm, contact your chosen brand to determine if it’s okay. Trimming over a manufacturer’s tolerance will void warranties. The construction of the door, such as hollow core doors, also impacts the amount you can trim. Trimming too much may result in removing design features, as seen in the image. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the specifics of your door before attempting to trim it.

How much can be cut off a hollow core door?

Trimming off a hollow core door can be done to accommodate thicker carpet, misread tape measure, or wonky doorframe. However, cutting off over 2 inches can cause the door’s edge to become non-solid. It’s not always advisable to trim hollow core doors for serious alterations. If unsure about trimming allowances, consult your supplier. If too much is cut off, the door’s structural integrity can be compromised, which can be fixed by reinserting a block from the bottom of the door inside the veneer using glue.

Can you change the size of a door?

Resizing a front door is possible, but it requires the help of an experienced contractor. The Andersen Certified Contractor program offers a variety of options for sizing doors. To find the right door size, consult the guide on front door sizing, which includes the average size, custom sizing options, and the process of expanding or shrinking down an entry door. It’s essential to work with an experienced contractor for a successful resizing project.

How much can I trim off an internal door?

Internal door manufacturers typically advise different trimming tolerances, so it is generally safe to trim no more than 5mm per side, except for LPD which allows 3mm. The answer to the question “can you trim doors?” is not straightforward, as manufacturers and suppliers may specify different maximum trimming tolerances, especially when considering fire doors. Even internal and external doors from the same manufacturer may have different trim tolerances. It is recommended to consult or employ a carpenter when trimming a door to avoid costly mistakes.

Can a door be resized?

To resize a door, remove it from its hinges and measure the amount needed to cut from the bottom of the door. Use a track saw or circular saw with a track to cut along the marked line, pushing down as you move across the door’s width. Sand the cut edge to smooth any roughness, starting with coarser grit sandpaper and moving to finer grit for a smooth finish. Use a block plane to ease the edges and prevent splintering.

Apply oil-based primer to the raw wood at the bottom of the door and allow it to dry completely before proceeding. Rehang the door on its hinges and check the fit, making any necessary adjustments to ensure it swings freely and does not scrape against the floor.

To create an Exterior Threshold Filler, measure the gap between the door’s bottom and the threshold on both sides. Cut a piece of red oak to fit the gap, grind off any finish on the old threshold with a power grinder, clean varnish from corners, test-fit the filler piece, cut a bevel on the inside edge, stain the filler piece to match the existing threshold, and secure it to the threshold using wood glue and headless brad nails, applying consistent pressure for a strong bond.

Can I trim an internal door?

Trimming down interior doors, including hollow core doors, is possible and often necessary to achieve the desired fit. While there is no standard legislation for door size, many brands adhere to a set of common sizes. It’s crucial to take precise measurements and purchase a door that’s as close to true as possible. Minor adjustments may be necessary due to varying frames, rough openings, and floor coverings. While it’s possible to shorten a new door to fit into an old frame, it’s important not to cut away too much material, wasting material and creating unnecessary work.

Can you make a door narrower?

Laminate doors can be trimmed to prevent splintering or cracking, but only up to 5mm is recommended to prevent damage. To seal a door after cutting, it is essential to finish it with oil, stains, varnish, or paints. Oils come in clear, matt, or satin finishes, while finishes include dark, medium, light, and clear shades. Stains or varnish come in a variety of colors, while paints come in a gloss or matt finish. Finishing the door not only adds a protective layer, but also prevents moisture from seeping into the door and prolongs wear and tear.

Can you shorten an interior door?

Trimming down interior doors, including hollow core doors, is possible and often necessary to achieve the desired fit. While there is no standard legislation for door size, many brands adhere to a set of common sizes. It’s crucial to take precise measurements and purchase a door that’s as close to true as possible. Minor adjustments may be necessary due to varying frames, rough openings, and floor coverings. While it’s possible to shorten a new door to fit into an old frame, it’s important not to cut away too much material, wasting material and creating unnecessary work.

How to reduce the size of a door?

Trimming your internal door down to size is a simple task that requires a steady hand and a hand plane or power plane to shave off equal amounts from each side using pencil lines. Savoy Timber advises working inwards from the outer edge of the door to avoid splitting the end grain. Keep checking the fit as you go and don’t be afraid to hold it up to the frame to see how you’re getting on. Remember that you only get one shot at this, so do it slowly if it’s worth it. Finally, use sandpaper to smooth down the rough edges for a smooth finish.

If you’re comfortable with doing this yourself, you can hang your door in its frame. If you can’t wait, visit one of Savoy Timber’s stores in Blackpool, Wigan, or Preston for tips and a full range of doors to fill.