How to Build an Interior Doorway

Creating a Rough Opening

• 1

  Measure up from the floor to the height you'd like your doorway. Mark that measurement.

• 2

  Mark the width of the doorway from one stud to the next, making sure the space is wide enough. Otherwise, mark the end at the next adjacent stud. Use a stud finder if necessary.

• 3

  Cut a small hole in the wall using a drywall saw, being careful not to cut any cables or wiring. Make sure no wires or pipes run through the area you'll cut out.

• 4

  Pry the plaster in your marked area free using a crowbar, creating a rough opening for your doorway. Use a drywall saw to cut clean edges around the opening.

• 5

  Cut any studs and horizontal framing inside the rough opening so it's unobstructed. Remove the shoe, or bottom frame.

Framing

• 6

  Measure the height of any door you might install in the doorway. If the doorway will remain open, use its actual height. Cut two pieces of 2-inch by 4-inch wood to the measured height.

• 7

  Attach each piece of wood to the studs on either side of the opening so they run vertically. Use heavy duty wood nails and a hammer or wood screws.

• 8

  Cut two more pieces of 2-inch by 4-inch wood to the original width of the rough opening, from one original stud to the next. Nail the pieces atop one another, and sit them atop the edges of the longer 2-inch by 4-inch planks that are connected to the studs. Nail them down securely to create a header.

• 9

  Measure the distance from the top of the header to the ceiling. Cut three 2-inch by 4-inch wood pieces at that measurement. Install one in the exact center of the space between the header and the ceiling, running vertically. Install the other two pieces on either side, at an equal distance from the center piece. Nail or screw down securely.

• 10

  Install any door casings per manufacturer instructions. Install a door jamb per manufacturer directions if you're hanging a door.

• 11

  Apply sheathing and drywall, plaster and any external door framing as needed for the doorway's particular use.