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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.

Wood is by no means the only type of front door material on the market. You can also choose from several other options, including:

• Aluminum: Low-maintenance and affordable, but lacks insulation 

• Fiberglass: Offers excellent insulation and durability for a decent price 

• Glass: Offers beauty but less security or insulation, and a higher price tag 

• Steel: One of the most economical options if you’re looking for affordability, low maintenance, high security levels, and a door that will last

• Wrought iron: Attractive and secure, but costly and heavy 

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.

Steel doors are among the most durable and longest-lasting options available, with a typical lifespan ranging from 30 to 100 years. Their longevity depends on factors such as the quality of the door, proper installation, climate, and the amount of use it receives.

While known for their resistance to wear and tear, steel doors can get dented and scratched over time. It is important to maintain them by regularly cleaning, checking the seals, and repainting them if the paint peels to prevent rusting.