How to Frame a Door Using a Cinder Block

Prepare Frame

• 1

  Measure and mark 2-by-4s for a frame to fit the interior of the opening. The frame has a 2-by-4 stud on each side. A 2-by-4 header on top of the frame joins the studs. The wide sides of both the 2-by-4 studs and the header should face the cinder blocks.

• 2

  Cut the 2-by-4s to the lengths you measured in Step 1. Nail the header on top of the studs. Use two nails for each stud.

• 3

  Drill pilot holes through the frame to accommodate Phillips screws set 16 inches apart on the studs of the frame, and 8 inches apart on the header.

Install the Frame

• 4

  Insert the frame into the door space in the cinder blocks and tap a nail through the pilot holes to mark the spots for the plastic anchors.

• 5

  Remove the frame. Use steady but firm pressure on a hammer drill with a masonry bit to make holes wide enough for plastic anchors designed to hold 3/8-inch screws that penetrate the recommended 1 1/2 inch depth. Make the hole an extra 1/4 inch deep. A 2-by-4 is 1 1/2 inches wide, not 2 inches, hence a 3-inch screw penetrates 1 1/2 inch. Use a straw to blow dust and debris from the hole.

• 6

  Lightly tap the plastic anchors into place with a hammer.

• 7

  Reinsert the frame. Use a drill with a Phillips bit to screw the frame into place with the flat-head screws.