Learning how to fit an external door frame can be a daunting task but it doesn’t need to be. With a little bit of time, patience, and know-how, any competent DIYer can install an external door frame on their own.

Without further ado, here is how to fit an external wooden door frame.

How do you install a wooden door frame?

First, lay your frame down onto a clean, dry floor or appropriate surface (such as a work bench or table) making sure there is enough space to assemble it.

Next, slot both of the jambs into the dedicated places in the head and sill and attach the weather bar into the groove in the sill. When assembling a door frame, you should use a good weather-proof glue as well as screws to make sure the frame is extra secure.

Make sure all the parts are straight and level as you go before screwing it all together. You may need to fit the sill to the rough opening and fit the rest of the frame afterwards. Make sure the corners stay square as you fix it together.

Step 2: Prepare the doorway

Line the frame up in the doorway and make sure there aren’t any gaps. If anything is uneven, you will need to make sure it’s level. You may need to use packers in the opening to ensure a completely level surface and the best fit.

Top tip: Squeezing a little waterproof caulking around the inside of the doorway before installing the frame can help to hold the door and also provide a waterproof seal.

Step 3: Fit the door frame

Carefully fit the frame into the opening. Move the sill into position with the rest of the frame tilted outwards and push it back into the opening.

Make sure the sill is completely straight and level and check all the parts of the frame are aligned correctly so the door can swing open properly.

Step 4: Attach the frame

Once the frame is positioned correctly you can then fix it into place. Use the right fixings for the job and secure it into the opening. Usually you will want to use four or five screws down each jamb and two or three in the head of the frame. Always make sure the frame stays square and straight.

Step 5: Finish it off

If there are some gaps around the frame still, fill them in with expanding foam or insulation and remember to seal all around the edges with waterproof caulk for a weatherproof finish. There should be no visible gaps between the wall and the frame!

Give yourself a pat on the back - you just fitted a door frame!

How to fit an external UPVC door and frame

Fitting a UPVC door and frame is similar to how you fit a wooden one but the frame will most likely come re-assembled. Make sure you check it hasn’t bowed by measuring diagonally across in both directions and make sure you drill pilot holes into the masonry before installing it and drilling it into place.

Any doubts? Call a professional! For everything else, check out our range of external doors as well as our Help & Advice centre for all the inspiration and information you could need.