Dutch doors are a great way to let light in while keeping the children close and safe as they play.
Give your kids' door a DIY split-level update with these 10 steps.
1. Remove door
Loosen door from door frame by inserting screwdriver up through bottom of hinge, tapping each bolt with hammer until it comes loose. Remove bolts, then remove door.
2. Mark door frame for additional hinge
Dutch doors require four hinges to ensure proper, safe function: two to support the top panel and two to support the bottom panel. Since standard interior doors come with three hinges, only one additional hinge needs to be added. Once the original door is removed, place the new hinge up against door frame roughly 30” above the floor.
3. Chisel door frame
In order for the additional hinge to be properly installed, the door frame will need to be chiseled, allowing the hinge to sit with the surface of the door frame. Start with the chisel pointed downward along marked lines.
4. Use router to notch fitting into door
Trace outline of hinge directly onto the side of the wooden door with pencil. Use woodworking router to notch out space for hinge.
5. Ensure additional hinge fits
Do a dry fit with wooden door, ensuring the additional hinge fits perfectly into the chiseled door frame and the notched side of the door. If it fits perfectly, take the door back down and prepare to cut it in half. Should the hinge not fit perfectly, additional chiseling may need to be done to the frame and/or the side of the door.
6. Cut wooden door in half
Securely mark cut point of door with pine plank fastened tightly to the door with woodworking clamps, then use circular saw to cut the solid door into two panels: a top panel and a bottom panel.
7. Sand cut edges
Use orbital sander or sandpaper to smooth out the rough edges made by the circular saw.
8. Cut bottom panel ledge
Create a ledge along the top of the bottom panel from the 6’ long, 1x6” plank. First, cut the width of the plank down approximately 1", slimming it down to a more practical width for opening and closing the door with ease. Next, measure, mark and cut ledge, joining the two corners at a 45 degree angle.
9. Attach ledge to bottom panel
Add wood glue along the top edge of the bottom panel. Next, use nails to secure the ledge into place. Once secure, use an orbital sander or sandpaper to smooth out all surfaces of the door. Wipe away dust with damp cloth, then paint using brush or roller. Let dry completely before installing.
10. Install door
With the help of a friend, hold each of the two panels in place and use drill to attach to hinges with screws. Use and enjoy!
Image via Pinterest.
