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Fine Homebuilding Project Guides

Windows & Doors

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Building Skills

Cutting a Door

Seasoned builder Mike Guertin shows a simple way to make a clean, straight cut when trimming a door to height.

By Mike Guertin

In this video from the Fine Homebuilding archives, long-time contributor Mike Guertin tells us that the most important thing when measuring and cutting a door is protecting the surface. He shows how to use masking tape and a utility knife to prevent tearout when cutting with a circular saw, and how to position and clamp a straightedge to get an accurate cut every time.

More about doors:

Frame a door rough opening

Video: Framing a Rough Opening

Measure and trim an existing a door

A collection of articles on interior trim

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Previous: How to Frame Rough Openings Next: How to Trim the Bottom of a Door

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Windows & Doors

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Door Basics

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Windows & Doors

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Choosing Windows
  • Window Types
  • Design and Materials
  • Energy-Efficient Windows
Installing Windows In New Walls
  • Installation, Start to Finish
  • Head Flashing for Windows
  • Video Series: Nail-Fin Window over Zip System Sheathing
  • Video Series: Nail-Fin Window over Exterior Rigid-Foam Insulation
  • Video Series: Nail-Fin Window over Housewrap
  • Video Series: Nail-Fin Window over Peel-and-Stick Housewrap
  • Video Series: Nail-Fin Window over a Fluid-Applied WRB
  • Video Series: Weatherproof Window Installation
Retrofitting Windows
  • Removing the Old, Installing the New
  • Video Series: How to Replace a Window
  • Video Series: Install a Full-Frame Replacement Window in a Brick Wall
  • Video Series: Install an Insert Replacement Window in a Brick Wall
  • Video Series: Retrofit a Flanged Window
Window Repairs
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  • Repairs and Upgrades
Door Basics
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Interior Doors
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Exterior Doors
  • Door Choices and Design
  • Installing Entry Doors
  • Building Exterior Doors
  • Installing French Doors
  • Replacing a Door
  • Adding Weatherstripping and Sweeps

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