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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.

You want a small gap of 1/8 of an inch between the door and the jamb. However, the gap size depends on the direction the door swings and whether it contains glass. You will also want to aim for the same size gap on all sides of the door, so it opens and closes smoothly.

Outswing doors are more popular for exterior doors as they offer more room for moving items in and out of a home. And because the hinges are on the outside of the door, they’re more secure against potential break-ins. But, outswing doors are more susceptible to the elements and are more expensive. Comparing inswing vs. outswing doors depends on your budget, needs, and overall preference.

Doors get more sticky in the summer. Contrary to popular belief, doors can also stick in the winter since humidity causes doors to stick during both seasons. However, thermal expansion and humidity in the summer mean that the thermal heat and moisture in the air both play a role in causing a door to stick.