How to Build a Steel Framed Entry Door for a Block Building

Concrete block walls are quite common building components on a range of building types. While they are cheap and relatively simple to build, they do require specialized details and methods for installing doors in them. The frames are usually metal, as opposed to wooden frames used in residential construction, and the doors cannot be nailed in place since the nails would simply chip the concrete block. With a few changes to the construction detailing, however, a steel-framed door is quite sturdy when mounted in a concrete block wall.

Vapor barrier
Construction adhesive
Door threshold or sill
Caulking
Masonry screws
Drill
Wood shims
Level
Sheet metal screws
Rubber mallet
Trim work (if desired)

Instructions

- 1
  Wrap the edges of the wall opening with vapor barrier paper. Having the barrier in first allows it to tuck under the metal frame, creating a better seal. Install the threshold at the door sill using a generous bead of caulking and masonry screws designed to attach to concrete. The door sill or threshold serves to prevent water leakage under the door as well as keep any drafting air out of the building's interior.
- 2
  Install the metal door frame. Begin by standing the frame in the opening and use shims, which are thin pieces of scrap wood, to align the frame and make it plumb and level. Leveling the frame ensures the door will operate smoothly.
- 3
  Use masonry screws to attach the frame to the block wall. Drive the screws directly through the metal frame and into the concrete block. Do not over-tighten the screws as that will bend the frame and cause it to go out of level, and put added stress on the frame's steel material.
- 4
  Install the hinges on the edge of the door and on the frame using sheet metal screws. The hinges come with a template or instructions for the various installation methods, but usually the top and bottom hinges are approximately 8 inches from the edge of the door, and the other hinge is centered on the door.
- 5
  Hang the door by joining the hinge halves and inserting the hinge pin. Lightly tap the hinge pin into place and the door installation is complete. Add trim work as desired to conceal any of the frame edges. Since there is no wood substrate to which you can nail the trim, the trim will be installed using construction adhesive to adhere the trim to the block wall.

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