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Closet Renovation

Learn how to expand the opening to your closet. Watch a video of this and other half-day projects with host Steve Watson from Don't Sweat It.

Don't Sweat It : Episode HDSWT-104 -- More Projects »
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Before: Tiny Closet Doors
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After: Easy Access
Materials:

pre-hung six-panel double doors
7' case molding
1 piece sheetrock
1 bag 45-minute spackle
2x4 studs
220-grit sandpaper

Tools:

sawzall for demolition
miter box
screwgun
utility knife
straight edge
level
flat crowbar
hammer
goggles
nail gun (optional)

Tip:

• When replacing a door with a bigger one, make sure the wall is not load-bearing. If it is, call a professional to install a new header before you install the door.

Steps:

1. Clear out closet and cover any furniture to protect from demolition mess. Pop the doors off the hinges and remove. Use the flat crowbar to remove door casing and door jamb. Be careful not to damage surrounding drywall when pulling off trim.
2. Measure for the new doors, marking dimensions on the wall. Make sure the opening has a 1/2 inch on both sides and the top to allow for adjustments.

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Figure A
3. Check for electrical and plumbing lines before cutting (figure A). Cut and remove drywall in small sections in order to peek into wall to check for obstructions. Note: Always use safety goggles when doing any demolition.
4. Use a sawzall to cut any of the framing out of the way.
5. Re-frame opening using 2x4 studs on each side of the new opening. Make sure the new 2x4s are plumb and level.
6. Install pre-hung door unit. Shim and attach to studs. Put door in from outside, tacking into place with finish nails. Make sure door is level and centered in opening. Shim behind each hinge first. Remove one short screw from each hinge and replace with a long screw going through the hinge, door jamb, shim and into framing. After hinge side is secure, check top reveal of door. Make sure the gap is consistent across top, and nail the opposite side (the strike side) of the door jamb in place.
8. Fill in any missing drywall and screw to studs.
9. Finish the sheetrock with three coats of spackle, sanding smooth with 220-grit sandpaper between coats.
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Figure B
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Figure C
10. Measure and cut the trim for the sides. Miter the tops of the sides and attach to the wall. Measure for the top trim piece and cut to length (figure B). Nail through the top or sides to secure the miter joints (figure C).
11. Sand the entire trim and remove dust. Stain or paint as desired.

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Also in this Episode
Don't Sweat It : Episode HDSWT-104
•Closet Renovation
•Carpet Removal
•How to Remove a Dying Tree From Your Yard
•Building a Golf Putting Green
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