How to Replace a Prehung Exterior Door

Use drill/driver to back out door hinge screws; remove door
Remove screws and/or nails from the hinge-side doorjamb
Push old doorframe out of the opening, and discard
Install Z-flashing over the door casing at the top of the opening
Apply thick bead of caulk along the sides and top of opening
Set the new prehung door into place, pressing it tight against the framing
Check the threshold for level; slip shims under threshold, if necessary
Temporarily screw through hinge-side jamb, then check spacing around inside of door
Insert shims into spaces between the hinge-side jamb and wall framing
From outside, pull back weatherstripping, drill pilot holes and drive masonry screws through hinge-side jamb and into masonry wall (use decking screws for wood wall)
Repeat the procedure for latch-side jamb, making sure to place screws behind weatherstripping
Close door and check the space between latch-side jamb and door edge; tap in shims, if necessary, to create consistent spacing
Use utility knife to trim all shims flush
Install lockset
15. Apply bead of caulk around the exterior of the doorframe, including under the threshold

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