Door Installation Edmonton

Prehung vs. Slab Doors: Which One Is Right for Your Edmonton Home?

If you’re renovating your home in Edmonton and thinking about replacing interior doors, you’ve probably come across two options: prehung doors and slab doors. Understanding the difference can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.

What Is a Prehung Door?
A prehung door comes already mounted in its own frame. This means the door, hinges, and frame all arrive together as one unit. Prehung doors are ideal when you’re replacing an old, damaged frame — or when you’re installing a door where there wasn’t one before, like in a new addition or basement.

What Is a Slab Door?
A slab door is just the door itself — no frame included. If your existing door frame is in good shape and is the right size, a slab door can be a more cost-effective option. The door is fitted into your existing frame and rehung on the original hinges (or new ones).

Which Should You Choose?
Here’s a simple rule: if the frame is damaged, warped, or out of square, go prehung. If the frame is solid and level, a slab door can work well and costs less. When in doubt, have a finish carpenter take a look first — a quick assessment can prevent a costly mistake.

The Installation Matters As Much As the Door
Even the best door will fail if it’s not installed properly. A door that doesn’t hang level will swing open or shut on its own, catch on the frame, or let drafts through. Professional installation ensures a smooth swing, proper clearance, and a clean, finished look with casing and trim.

At Valdez Custom Woodworks, we install both prehung and slab doors throughout Edmonton. If you have questions about your project, give us a call at 780-782-1163 or request a free quote.