How to Install an Exterior Basement Door in a Stucco Wall

Use a stud finder along the area where you intend to install the door. This will help you locate water or electrical lines in the wall, if they exist, and it might also give you an indication that the wall is not solid stucco. If the wall is instead only stucco covered, traditional door installation will be required after removing the exterior layer of stucco. Any water or electrical lines need to be relocated before cutting through the wall. Contact a professional for guidance on relocation.

Measure the door frame and use this measurement to mark the spot for the opening. Use a measuring tape for an accurate measurement around the exterior of the door frame to be installed. Mark this area clearly on the wall.

Align the flat edge of a chisel along the inside drawn line and hit with a hammer to make a small opening. This will be the spot to begin cutting the door.

Use a circular saw with a masonry blade to cut along the drawn line. Place the blade into the chiseled opening and begin cutting. Work slowly but deliberately to follow the line exactly.

Chisel out the opening. If the stucco is thicker than the saw blade, it is necessary to use a chisel to remove the interior area before continuing the cutting process. Start at the top and work downward. A second cutting around the edge is possible once the center areas are removed to ensure the sides are even and smoothly cut.

Sand the opening. Use an orbital sander and 60-grit sandpaper to smooth the area slightly.

Mark the spots for the frame bolts. Hold the metal door frame in place in the opening. Use a marking tool to mark the bolt openings on the exposed stucco.

Drill the holes for the frame bolts. Use a drill with a masonry bit. Ensure that you match the size of the bolts for the frame.

Attach the door frame using expansion bolts. Ensure that the bolts fit the frame openings. Use a drill to tighten the bolts in place.

Hang the door into the frame according to the manufacturer's directions.