How to Build a Door Using 2-by-4 Boards

Simple wooden doors have been used for hundreds of years. They are made of wooden boards that are joined by cross beams, providing a basic barrier with lots of old-world charm. You can build a modern version using 2-by-4 boards, available at any hardware store without the need for cutting down your own trees. Use high quality wood with no knots or warping for the best results.

2-by-4 boards
Measuring tape
Saw
Drill
1/16-inch drill bit
2 1/2-inch wood screws
Screwdriver
Hinges and latch

Instructions

- 1
  Cut ten 80-inch pieces of 2-by-4 with a saw. Lay these pieces next to each other on the ground with their sides touching, forming the bulk of a door measuring 35 by 80 inches.
- 2
  Cut three 35-inch pieces of 2-by-4. Lay these across the door, perpendicular to the first boards. One should be positioned across the center, with the others 1 foot from the top and bottom.
- 3
  Drill a 1/16-inch pilot hole through the middle 35-inch board and into each board beneath it. Screw the boards together with 3-inch wood screws. Repeat this process for the other 35-inch boards to assemble the door.
- 4
  Cut two 40-inch pieces of 2-by-4, then cut the ends to opposing 45-degree angles.
- 5
  
  The diagonal boards will provide extra support.
  
  Position the final boards diagonally between the top and middle board and the middle and bottom board. They will serve as cross braces, further reinforcing the door. Drill pilot holes and screw them in place.
- 6
  Stand the door into a frame and attach it with hinges and a latch.

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