I've got a composite door that fits almost perfectly in the existing jamb, except for a small section near the top corner where the jamb measures about 1/8 inch too small. I'm unsure how to adjust it to fit better. Should I trim the door (can I use a hand planer for this?), or would it be better to trim the jamb? What do you all think?
4 Answers
Trimming the door with a hand planer is usually the way to go, but before you do that, make sure there aren’t any issues with the hinge. Trimming the jamb can often look pretty obvious and might not be the best option.
It really comes down to which part you're okay with painting afterward. Most people trim the door, as it's easier and less noticeable if done right. I’ve done both and had good results, but yeah, either way, expect to do some touch-up painting after.
I usually recommend trimming the door because it’s simpler. Just make sure to wrap the area you’re cutting with painter’s tape to avoid tearing. You could use a circular saw with a fine-tooth blade for a clean cut, or even a sharp knife to mark the lines first. If the door is plywood, be cautious about cutting against the grain to prevent damage. Good luck with the project!
You could also try putting long screws into the jambs to pull them a bit closer to the framing. It can often work better than trimming the door and is usually a simpler fix.
I'm not sure I understand how that would work. Could you explain a bit more?