Best door pros near Holt, MI

The width of your door jamb should match your wall thickness exactly, so it depends on your wall. For standard door openings, the width is equal to the width of a 2-by-4-inch  stud, plus the width of the drywall on both sides—about 1/2 inch each—which comes out to 4 9/16 inches. Block walls and framed walls that use 2-by-6-inch framing require a door jamb that’s 6 9/16 inches. You should always measure your finished wall thickness to get an accurate width for your door jamb material.

Ideally, a gate should be able to swing both in and out. However, if it can only open in one direction, it is generally best for it to swing inward. This is often the safest option, especially for deck gates near steps, as you'll want the gate to swing away from the stairs. An inward swing also prevents the gate from opening into a public space, like a sidewalk, and can be more convenient when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

There are exceptions, however. The layout of your property may require a different approach. For example, if your property is on a slope, the gate may not be able to swing inward. You should also ensure the gate can open fully without colliding with any objects or blocking access to other areas. For a backyard garden gate where public access isn't a concern, the direction it swings is largely a matter of personal preference. Finally, always check your local building codes, as they may have specific requirements for which way a gate must swing.

You should generally cut between 1/8-inch and 1 inch when planing a door. If you cut off more than that, you risk damaging the door. Planing too much from the bottom of your door can cause noticeable gaps, so it’s always better to start with as thin of a section as possible and work in thin layers until your door no longer sticks.

The typical time it takes to replace a patio door is between three and five hours. That time frame includes the removal of the old door and completing any necessary repairs before installing the door. However, the project could take up to a full day, depending on the door’s design and the surrounding wall structure.