Choosing the right door can make or break your home project. I’ve been there, standing in the hardware store, confused about which option works best.
This guide will help you understand prehung doors and slab doors so you can pick the right one for your needs.I’ll break down what makes each type different.
You’ll learn the pros and cons of both options. I’m sharing what I’ve learned from my own projects to save you time and money.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which door fits your situation. We’ll cover what prehung doors are, how they compare to slab doors, and when to use each type.
What is a Prehung Door?
A prehung door comes ready to install right out of the box.
This type features a door slab already mounted to a three-sided frame. The hinges are attached. The holes for your doorknob are already cut. You get everything in one package.
The door slab forms the main part you see and use daily. The frame has jambs on the sides and a header on top. Hinges come pre-attached.
The mortises are already cut. A doorknob hole is drilled and ready.Installation goes faster than other options.
You don’t need to drill holes or attach hinges yourself. The door is already balanced and hangs correctly. Exterior prehung doors seal tight against weather.
These doors are heavy and cost more than door slabs. You need to be careful during installation. One wrong move can damage the frame.
What is a Slab Door?
A slab door is just the door itself with nothing else attached.
You buy the flat door panel and that’s it. No frame. No hinges. No hardware holes.
You receive only the door slab. That’s the flat piece that swings open and closed. Everything else needs to be purchased separately.
Hinges, doorknobs, strike plates, and frames all cost extra.Slab doors are lighter and easier to carry.
They cost less upfront than prehung options. They work great when you have an existing frame in good shape.
You must measure everything precisely. Cutting mortises for hinges takes skill. Drilling holes for doorknobs needs accuracy.
Installation takes longer than prehung doors. You need carpentry knowledge to get good results.
Key Differences Between Prehung and Slab Doors
Understanding these differences helps you make the right choice for your home.
| Feature | Prehung Doors | Slab Doors |
| Installation Time | Goes in faster. Frame is ready. Hinges are attached. You just set it in place and secure it. Can be installed in under two hours. | Takes more work. You mark where hinges go. You cut mortises into the wood. You drill the doorknob hole. Can take a full day or more. |
| Cost | Costs more upfront. But you get everything you need. No surprise trips to the store for forgotten parts. | Starts cheaper. But you buy hinges, doorknobs, and other hardware separately. Those costs add up quickly. Sometimes you end up spending nearly the same amount. |
| Best Uses | New construction. Replacing an old frame. When the frame is damaged or warped. Perfect for exterior doors that need weatherproofing. | Simple replacements. When your existing frame is solid and square. When you want to save money. Ideal for interior doors in older homes. |
Benefits of Prehung Doors
Prehung doors offer convenience and reliability that make home projects simpler and faster for everyone.
- Installation happens quickly. The door and frame come as one unit. Just position it and secure it in place.
- The door swings smoothly right from the start. It’s already balanced on the hinges. No adjusting needed.
- Exterior prehung doors keep your home protected. They seal tightly against wind and rain.
- New construction projects benefit most from prehung doors. You get consistent results every time.
- Mistakes happen less often with prehung doors. The guesswork is gone. Your home stays safe and comfortable.
Choosing the Right Door
The right door depends on your specific situation.
Look at your project scope first. Are you building new or replacing old? Check your existing frames if you have them. Are they straight and undamaged?
Consider your budget honestly. Think about your DIY skills too.Go prehung if you’re doing a full renovation.
Use them when frames need replacing. Pick them for exterior doors every time. Choose them if you lack carpentry experience.
Buy slab doors to save money on simple jobs. Use them when your frame is perfect. Pick them if you enjoy customizing. Select them when you have the tools and know-how.
Some projects need a professional. Exterior doors should be installed correctly. I learned this the hard way once. When in doubt, call someone who knows what they’re doing.
Conclusion
Prehung and slab doors each have their place in home projects. Prehung doors offer speed and convenience. Slab doors provide flexibility and lower initial costs.
Think about your frame condition, budget, and skills before deciding.
I’ve used both types over the years. Prehung saved me time on a bathroom remodel. Slab worked perfectly when I just needed to swap an interior door.
Your needs will guide your choice. Take a moment to assess your project honestly. The right door makes all the difference in how your space looks and functions.
Got questions about your door project? Drop a comment below and let’s figure it out together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a prehung door myself?
Yes, you can install a prehung door yourself if you have basic tools and some DIY experience. The process is simpler than installing a slab door because the frame and hinges are already assembled for you.
How much does a prehung door typically cost?
Prehung doors typically cost between $150 and $500 depending on the material, size, and quality. This price includes the door, frame, and hinges, making it more expensive upfront than slab doors.
Do slab doors come with holes pre-drilled?
Most slab doors do not come with holes pre-drilled for doorknobs or hinges. You need to measure, mark, and drill these yourself, which requires precision and the right tools.
Which door type is better for exterior use?
Prehung doors are better for exterior use because they come with a frame that creates a tight seal against weather. This helps prevent drafts, water leaks, and energy loss from your home.
How do I know if my existing door frame is good enough for a slab door?
Check if your frame is straight, square, and free from rot or damage. Use a level to verify it’s plumb and measure all sides to ensure they’re even and properly aligned.
