Should You Install Doors Before or After Flooring? The Ultimate Guide

Remember that time you decided to redo your bathroom, but you just couldn’t resist ripping out the old floor first? Everything was going smoothly until you tried to fit the new door in – the gap between the door and the floor was a disaster! That’s a common scenario, and it highlights the age-old question: do you put doors in before flooring, or after? The answer isn’t as simple as you might think.

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This question is a recurring theme in home renovation forums and DIY groups. Many homeowners are torn between the convenience of installing flooring before doors and the potential for complications. It’s a decision that can significantly impact your project’s aesthetic and functionality. Let’s dive into the details to help you make the best choice for your home.

The Right Order for a Seamless Finish

Understanding the Dynamics

The decision of whether to install doors before or after flooring comes down to two primary factors: the type of flooring and the type of door.

If you’re working with a flooring type like hardwood, laminate, or vinyl planks that requires a perfectly flat surface, installing doors first offers several advantages. It allows the flooring to be installed directly against the door frame, creating a clean and seamless look. However, if you’re planning on installing carpet, the order might be less crucial, as carpet naturally accommodates the door frame.

The Door and Its Role

The type of door is equally important. French doors, sliding doors, and pocket doors, for example, often have unique installation requirements that might be affected by the flooring choice. It’s crucial to consider the specific door type and how its installation might interact with the flooring.

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Getting It Right

Here are the general guidelines to keep in mind:

• Hardwood, Laminate, and Vinyl Plank Flooring: Install doors before the flooring to ensure a tight fit and seamless transition. This is especially important for doors that are cut flush with the floor, such as sliding or pocket doors.
• Carpet: You can install doors either before or after the carpet, as carpet can be easily trimmed to fit around the door frame. However, installing doors after the carpet can sometimes lead to a slight gap between the carpet and the door.
• Tile Flooring: Similar to hardwood, it’s best to install doors before tile flooring to avoid the possibility of tile being cut too close to the door frame.
• French Doors, Sliding Doors, and Pocket Doors: Installing doors first is crucial for these types, as they might have specific requirements regarding door height, level, and frame placement.

Tips from Experienced DIYers and Contractors

Over the years, working with homeowners and observing the outcomes of different approaches, I’ve learned some valuable tips that can make the difference between a smooth project and a frustrating one:

• Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to consult a professional contractor for their expert opinion. They can assess your specific project and provide tailored advice based on the door type, flooring type, and other relevant factors.
• Consider the Door Height: If you’ve chosen a pre-hung door, remember that the flooring will affect its final height. Ensure you have adequate clearance. For example, if your door needs 8 feet of clearance, and your flooring adds an inch, you’ll need to adjust the door’s placement accordingly.
• Don’t Forget the Trim: When installing flooring, consider the impact of door trim on the overall look. You want to ensure enough space around the door for the trim to fit neatly.
• Leave Room for Expansion: Some flooring materials, particularly hardwood, require expansion gaps around the perimeter to accommodate changes in temperature and humidity. This is a crucial element to factor in when considering the placement of doors.

Common Questions Answered

Q: Can I install the flooring before the doors if I’m using hardwood?

While it might seem tempting, it is generally not recommended to install hardwood before doors. The door frame needs to be installed level and flush with the final floor surface. This ensures a seamless transition and prevents gaps or unevenness.

Q: Is it better to install pocket doors before or after the flooring?

It’s generally best to install pocket doors before flooring. This allows the flooring to be installed flush with the door frame and the pocket door to operate smoothly.

Q: What if I’m using carpet?

You can install doors before or after carpet, as carpet can be readily trimmed to fit around the door frame. However, consider that installing doors after carpet might lead to a slight gap between the carpet and the door.

Q: What happens if the door frame is not level?

If the door frame is not properly level, this can lead to unevenness in the floor, gaps around the door, and difficulty opening and closing the door. It’s best to ensure the frame is level prior to installing the flooring.

Do You Put Doors In Before Flooring

In Conclusion

The age-old question about installing doors before or after flooring isn’t just about aesthetics; it is about ensuring proper functionality and a seamless result. The best approach depends on the specific type of doors and flooring you’re using. Remember, the advice provided is general in nature; always consult with a professional if you’re unsure about your project.

Have you ever had to deal with a tricky flooring and door situation? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Let’s learn from each other to make future DIY projects smoother!