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Windows & Doors

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  • Choosing Windows
  • Installing Windows In New Walls
  • Retrofitting Windows
  • Window Repairs
  • Door Basics
  • Interior Doors
  • Exterior Doors
List

How to Frame Rough Openings

10 articles and videos to help you ensure your walls are ready for installing windows and doors.

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You can’t complete a top-notch window or door installation if the openings in your walls aren’t straight, square, and sized correctly. This collection of Fine Homebuilding articles and videos is full of professional tips and techniques that will help you get these crucial construction details right.

  • How-To 1
    framing a rough opening
    Not-So-Rough Openings

    Framing exterior openings precisely will make installing the windows and doors a breeze.

  • How-To 2
    How to Lay Out and Frame a Rough Opening for a Door

    In this video, Scott Grice shares his method for laying out and framing rough door openings efficiently.

  • How-To 3
    larry haun framing
    Simple Steps for Window- and Door-Framing Layout

    Learn a few measuring shortcuts that make accurate rough-opening layouts a snap.

  • How-To 4
    How to Frame a Door Opening

    Follow this step-by-step procedure for an interior door opening.

  • How-To 5
    Frame a Door Rough Opening

    A pro carpenter teaches you his 3 simple rules for framing door rough openings efficiently.

  • How-To 6
    The Right Header for Every Wall
    The Right Header for Every Wall

    Several code-approved options beyond the standard double 2x12 save material and energy.

  • How-To 7
    framing a garage
    Framing a Strong Garage-Door Opening

    Site-built shear walls help a building with large openings to stand up to high winds.

  • How-To 8
    How to Install Doors in Thick Walls

    Superinsulated walls make it challenging to install standard-size door jambs and sills. Energy-efficient-home designer Michael Maines offers some workable solutions.

  • How-To 9
    Windows in Thick Walls

    Thick-wall assemblies offer better comfort and energy efficiency, but installing windows presents a challenge for builders.

  • 10
    An Alternative to Wood Window Bucks

    ThermalBuck makes window installations over exterior insulation sturdy and energy efficient by replacing wood with high-density expanded polystyrene foam extrusions.

Previous: Another Hinge-Mortising Template Next: Cutting a Door

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Windows & Doors

Windows & Doors

Trusted, comprehensive guidance from the pros for choosing, installing, replacing, and repairing windows and doors on any house

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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
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  • Video Series: Nail-Fin Window over Housewrap
  • Video Series: Nail-Fin Window over Peel-and-Stick Housewrap
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Retrofitting Windows
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  • Video Series: Install an Insert Replacement Window in a Brick Wall
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Door Basics
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  • Adding Weatherstripping and Sweeps

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