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A slab door is a standalone door without a frame or hardware. A prehung door is a complete set that includes the door, frame, hinges, and sometimes the doorknob and lockset.

In most cases, a prehung door is the better and easier option to install, especially for DIY projects or exterior applications, as they often come pre-weatherproofed. They require fewer tools and less experience to install properly. Although prehung doors are heavier and have a higher upfront cost, the investment is often worthwhile for a complete upgrade that includes a new frame.

A slab door may be a better choice if you are on a tight budget, have a custom-sized wall opening, or only need to replace the door while keeping the existing frame. While the initial cost is lower, you will need to purchase all the hardware separately and do more DIY work to hang it, which may not result in significant time or money savings.

The best material depends on what’s more important to you: Cost? Durability? Looks? Steel cellar doors are tough, water-resistant, and heavy, while fiberglass or composite doors can give you the outdoor aesthetics you crave. Most people favor steel because of its strength against storms, but steel is also one of the more costly options.

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.

At the minimum, you want your pet door to fit into its intended location, be the right size for your pup, and have energy-efficient and weatherproofing features. Besides that, you’ll also need features that are unique to your situation. If you live where raccoons run rampant, you should look into doors you can open remotely. If you have small children in your home, you might need a door that only responds to your dog’s collar.