Question for masons

[locoman]

what should the ruff opening be for a 36 inch door? I am blocking up a 24 inch stem wall. Standard is 38 inches but do I need to allow for 2x4's on each side along the block as well? I have been told yes and no.

 

[markzrt1]

They made mine at 39". But I think it is supposed to be 38"

 

[flesburg]

It should be 38 inches in a framed structure. I would add 3 inches to that with cement block, (41" total) so that you can anchor a 2x8 inch frame inside the block, using cement anchors. I would fame it with stock the same width as the width of your block (I assumed 8") and I would use pressure treated wood. Then your finished opening inside the wood should be 38" and you can mount your door frame to the wood.

 

[boiler7904]

Flesburg is on the right track. Buy the door and frame, measure it and then add 3" for blocking (1 1/2" on each side) and shim space as required by the manufacturer.

On second thought, you might want 3" of blocking on each side of the frame if you plan to add casing to the interior side of the door at some point.

 

[locoman]

Thanks flesburg and markzrt. I just wanted to make sure I was on the right track.

 

[1320stang]

I would purchase a commercial steel frame from a supplier, they already have tabs for locking into cinder block and the header is typically the correct height to course out with the block. I wouldn't think that it would be more than about $50, easier and cheaper than making one yourself. You could purchase a commercial steel door from them as well as vandal proof hinges and a good commercial lock set.