Wondering how to build an exterior door in Virginia? You’ve come to the right place! While most of us live in a culture that makes it easier than ever to acquire things, nothing compares to the satisfaction of building something with your own hands. Every time you pass through your doorway, you’ll feel proud of what you’ve accomplished.
At the same time, it’s not always wise to DIY when someone else can do it for you. Unless you’re an experienced woodworker, building an exterior door can be too big of a challenge.
Nevertheless, if you’re ready to test your skills, here are tips to help you build your entryway showpiece.
Come up with a plan
If you’re confident enough about your building capabilities (we warned you!), you’ll have to start by mapping out your project. But before you do this, set aside time to look for more resources and take notes on the most important information. Being prepared is critical if you want your project to succeed!
Once you have a clear understanding of how the process is going to be, create a plan for your exterior door and double-check all your measurements (either of your existing door or the doorway you’ll put the door in). Then, gather all the tools: a planer, a router, a table saw, and a mortise and tenon joint (or build it on your own). Make sure you also have primer, wood glue, paint, and, of course, your chosen wood.
Purchase and prepare your materials
After deciding on the final look, you’ll have to cut your stiles, rails, mullions, and panels to match the necessary dimensions. The great part about building a door on your own is that you don’t always have to stick to the standard – you can customize the door to your liking. We advise you to build your exterior door a little bit oversized because you can always trim it down to fit the doorway.
When all your rough materials are in the right size, use a joiner and planer to make them flat.
Work on your rails and stiles
The next step is to cut a ½-inch-wide groove, approximately 9/16-inch deep, along the full length of your stiles and rails. What’s important is that all the grooves are cut in the center of the edges. They will be used to hold the four panels you usually see in typical exterior doors.
Create your mortises
For a newbie, building a door can seem scary. However, compared to other furniture, building a door is much simpler because it only requires one type of joinery. There are several ways you can make a mortise and tenon joint. Start by using a hollow chisel mortiser, a router, or a chisel to make your mortises, then cut your tenons with a table saw.
Assemble the door
You’re almost finished! Before you continue with the painting and installation process, dry-fit the pieces of your door so that everything is just how you need it. Our tip is to use clamps to check the fit. Once you’re confident that all is good, you will have to glue the mortise and tenon joints together (start with the center first). Next, place the panels into the grooves. Don’t forget to attach the outer stiles and cut holes for the handles, locks, and latches.
Paint both sides of the door
One of the final steps in building an exterior door in Virginia is painting it. Make sure to choose exterior paint as it is much more durable and will provide a protective barrier against different elements and harsh weather conditions.
Install the door
Now, all that’s left to do is install the door. Check our guide to learn step-by-step how to do it – from preparing the opening to sealing for the state’s climate.
Recap: How to build an exterior door in Virginia
With the right facts and tools, building a door is easier than one might think. But before you get excited about your DIY project, remember that your door should comply with the latest building codes and regulations. You can double-check the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code here or get in touch with the Homeowners Association.
While testing your craftsmanship skills can be tempting, it comes with several risks. Unfortunately, DIY doors may not always meet security standards. Additionally, if you do not seal them correctly, you’ll have to face energy efficiency problems. That’s why it’s better to let professionals take care of the task for you. American Home Contractors will install the best doors with care. Contact our team here.
Fact checked by Lita Legzdina on 12/11/2024