Tools Needed for Cutting a Pass Through an Interior Wall

Marking the Wall

• Placement and size of the door is important. A stud finder is the first item needed to help line up your door with the studs. A tape measure and carpenter's pencil are used to measure out and mark where the door will be. A long carpenter's level works well to draw the lines in as well as make sure the sides and top of the door will be lined up straight instead of angled.

Cutting Outer Wall

• A few tools are needed to cut away the outer wall. A utility knife is used to cut through the drywall along the outlines that were drawn. If your home has plaster on the wall, cut through the plaster along the lines. Gently hit the plaster with a claw hammer to loosen it, then use the claw to pull the plaster off the wall. A small hand saw or reciprocating saw is used to cut out the lath (wood strapping behind plaster).

Cutting the Studs

• Cutting the studs is a job for a hand saw or reciprocating saw. A small step ladder will enable you to cut the studs at the top of the frame on the proper angle rather than stretching up. A back saw is best for cutting the stud from the floor with less damage to the floor than a reciprocating saw. A claw hammer is used to pry the wood up off the floor.

Clean-up

• Clean-up is easier when a drop cloth is used throughout the job. It makes it easier to gather up the plaster for the trash can. Use a good work shop cloth to wipe the dust off the tools to stop the spread of plaster dust. A shop vac should be used to vacuum up the dirt. A broom will kick up the dust, making it harder to get rid of.