Realigning a Door Casing

Tools:

ladder
pull saw
power drill
5-in-1 painter's tools
clamp
utility knife
flat-head screwdriver
level
pry bar
towel
hammer
nail set
nippers
caulk gun
safety glasses
casing
nails
caulk

1. Pry the casing off with a large pry bar and a couple of painter's tools (figure A). Insert a piece of cardboard between the pry bar the wall to avoid damaging the wall.

2. Remove the door from its hinges and then pry off the casing on the other side of the door.

3. Realign the doorjamb using a level to make sure it's nice and plumb (figure B).

4. Secure the doorjamb to the wall stud behind it with nails. Pre-drill holes for the nails to avoid splitting the stud, then sink beneath the surface using a nail set (figure C).

5. Before putting the casing back on, use the painter's tool to scrape away any old caulk from around the opening.

6. If the old casing was split or damaged and needs to be replaced, use the old pieces as templates to cut new casing pieces (figure D). Cut the pieces using a pull saw.

7. Test fit the pieces and it everything looks good attach with nails. Remember to pre-drill holes to avoid splitting and sink the nails using a nail set. Finish by running a bead of caulk around the trim.