Doors and Windows - How To Trim Bottom Of Interior Door

Have A Number Of Interior Hollow Core Doors That Need Bottom Triming.i've Done It With A Hand Saw. What Is The Best Way To Do It Mechanically? Circular Saw/jig Saw? Thanks

I've had good success with a table saw and a steady helper.

On a hollow core door, remember to take out the bottom plug before cutting so you will have it to replug the new opening.

Circular saw. Score a line where you will be cutting with a knife blade so that the circular saw blade won't tear out the veneer as it comes up through the top of the door. Cover the bottom of your skilsaw with duct tape so that it doesn't scratch the door.

If you're not cutting off much, the bottom rail (glued inside the door) will just be smaller. If you cut off more than an inch, you'll need to clean up the scrap, as thezster mentioned, and glue it back into the door, then clamp it until the glue sets up.

I've never heard of removing the bottom rail before you cut, that would be a trick.

Circular saw. Score a line where you will be cutting with a knife blade so that the circular saw blade won't tear out the veneer as it comes up through the top of the door. Cover the bottom of your skilsaw with duct tape so that it doesn't scratch the door.

If you're not cutting off much, the bottom rail (glued inside the door) will just be smaller. If you cut off more than an inch, you'll need to clean up the scrap, as thezster mentioned, and glue it back into the door, then clamp it until the glue sets up.

I've never heard of removing the bottom rail before you cut, that would be a trick.


Sleeper is right.... obviously cut, then clean up and replace the rail/plug. It's been a few years since I did this particular job.... and passing time makes it a bit foggy....

I knew what you meant... ;) Too many beers at 9AM this morning, eh? :coffee:

I knew what you meant... ;) Too many beers at 9AM this morning, eh? :coffee:

Well, uhhh, maybe... but it was 9a.m. in Zurich :D