What is the difference between a prehung door and a slab door?

Asked 2 years ago
The difference between a prehung door and a slab door primarily lies in their construction and installation requirements. A prehung door comes as a complete unit, including the door itself, the door frame, and often the door hardware, such as hinges and a doorknob or lock set. This type of door is ready to install straight out of the packaging. The frame is already fitted with the door, allowing for a quicker and easier installation process. Prehung doors are ideal for new construction or when replacing an entire door frame, as they provide built-in support and alignment. On the other hand, a slab door consists only of the door itself without any frame or hardware. It is essentially a flat piece of material, which can be wood, fiberglass, or other materials. Slab doors are typically used as replacements for existing doors where the frame and hardware are already intact and in good condition. Installing a slab door requires more effort, as it involves aligning hinges, installing a doorknob, and ensuring that the door fits properly within the existing frame. Choosing between a prehung door and a slab door depends on the specific needs of the project. Those looking for ease of installation and a complete solution may prefer a prehung door, while individuals with existing frames might find a slab door to be more suitable, allowing them to customize the door style and hardware as they wish. For more detailed information on different door types and options, visiting the Allaboutdoors.com website may be beneficial.
Jeff Whelpley is the editor / author responsible for this content.
Answered Oct 5, 2025

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