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You want plenty of room between your pre-hung door and the framing in your wall to allow for shimming to get the door into the perfect position, so aim for about 1 inch on the top and both sides. That means you should make your rough opening about 1 inch taller and 2 inches wider than your pre-hung door. You’ll then use shims to stabilize and level the door before installing it.

You can attach the hinges to either the door or the frame first, depending on your preference. The order will not affect how the door hangs or the ease of installation. However, we recommend starting with the top hinge over the bottom one for stability, as it’s much easier to support the door from below while you install the top hinge. It will also be easier to pull the door outward from the hinges as it hangs from the top than it would be to push the door toward the hinges, as there’s less clearance on the lock side.

You will need to cut or break a boomstick so it is wider than the door and long enough to anchor outside the door frame. Extend the broomstick horizontally under the doorknob, ensuring it's snug. Now using long screws and a drill, anchor the broomstick to the wall outside the door frame. Remember that you won't be able to open the door afterward. Do not proceed with this hack if your home has no alternative exit.

Interior door thresholds are usually attached using finish nails, and some contractors will also use construction adhesive under the threshold to hold it in place. Exterior door thresholds are more commonly screwed to prevent them from pulling up when people step on the raised edge on the outside of the door. Exterior doors also include caulk sealant on the inside to prevent water and air from seeping through.