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I have to build an exterior door for my father-in-law. It will be roughly 3’X 7′. Aesthetics are not the primary concern, cost and insulating abilities are though. It is a back door for his butcher shop and will be 4 to 6 inches thick. I am concerned that if I use standard spruce lumber for the framework and plywood skins that it will warp and not seal well. Would 3/4″ plywood ripped and laminated together for the frame be better or simply unnecessary work? As is probably obvious I don’t really know where to start with the design but do have moderate carpentry skills so I don’t think the actual construction should be too bad. I searched the archives but could not find what I was after, any help or
direction would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks, Jason K.
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Replies
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Older walk in cooler doorss were built the 4x4 method, stayed flat for years when oil base painted. Mortice/tenon 4X4s for frame, fill with insulation, cover with 3/4 plywood. You may have to recess the thickness at the locks (more 4x4 backing there)to get standard door hardware to fit.
*Thanks Art, much easier this way, save ripping the plywood. Jason K.
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I have to build an exterior door for my father-in-law. It will be roughly 3'X 7'. Aesthetics are not the primary concern, cost and insulating abilities are though. It is a back door for his butcher shop and will be 4 to 6 inches thick. I am concerned that if I use standard spruce lumber for the framework and plywood skins that it will warp and not seal well. Would 3/4" plywood ripped and laminated together for the frame be better or simply unnecessary work? As is probably obvious I don't really know where to start with the design but do have moderate carpentry skills so I don't think the actual construction should be too bad. I searched the archives but could not find what I was after, any help or
direction would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks, Jason K.