How to Cut Brick to Install a Prehung French Door

Measure the length and width of the door. Add the size of your door frame or shims to the measurements. The frame attaches to the brick wall and ensures a strong fit between the door and the wall. Frames typically vary from 1 inch to 2 inches thick.

Decide on the location for the door in the brick. Transfer your measurements to the brick, marking the dimensions with a piece of chalk. Draw an outline of the door with the chalk, making the rectangle the same size as your measurements.

Score the brick with a chisel. Press the chisel against one line on the brick and apply enough force that the chisel breaks through the top layer of brick. Scrape the chisel around the lines, marking the outline of the door.

Hold an angle grinder against the outline of the door. Turn the grinder on and carefully work it across each line. Move the grinder back to the beginning and go over the outline again. Keep repeating this step until you cut through the brick.

Remove the bricks from the wall, wearing rubber gloves to protect your hands. After clearing away the brick, examine the edges. If the edges appear broken or uneven, set the chisel against the edges and gently tap the top with a hammer. The chisel breaks away the rough spots. Rub fine-grit sandpaper over the edges, leaving the brick smooth.