How to Reopen an Old Doorway for a Fresh New Look

Reopening an old doorway can be an exciting way to rediscover and restore your home’s history. When we removed a panel in our hallway, we discovered the hidden frame of an old doorway just waiting to be brought back to life. Opening up this hidden entrance doesn’t just add character; it also brings new flow and functionality to our space, perfect for adding a vintage touch to our home’s layout.

But restoring an old doorway is a project that needs a careful approach. You’ll need to check if the wall is load-bearing, decide how to handle any old framing or drywall, and gather the right tools for the job. This is a project you can tackle yourself, but it might take some patience (and a bit of mess!) to reveal the full potential of the hidden doorway.

Ready to uncover that old doorway? Below, I’ll guide you through each step to make the process simple, manageable, and totally worth it. With a few supplies and some know-how, you can open up a forgotten passage that brings charm and added flow to your home.

Supplies You’ll Need to Reopen an Old Doorway

• Stud finder
• Safety goggles
• Dust mask
• Utility knife
• Pry bar
• Hammer
• Saw (reciprocating or hand saw)
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Carpenter’s pencil
• Drywall, trim, and paint (for finishing)
• Door and hinges (optional if adding a new door)

How to Reopen an Old Doorway

1. Use a stud finder to locate any studs around the doorway and determine if it’s part of a load-bearing wall. If it is, consult a professional before proceeding.
2. Put on safety goggles and a dust mask. Use a utility knife to carefully score the drywall along the marked lines. Once scored, cut through with a reciprocating saw or handsaw to expose the framing.
3. Use a pry bar to carefully remove any old framing and nails. Check for nails or screws in the studs to avoid damage.
4. If the doorway frame needs reinforcement, add new 2×4 studs along the opening to support the new doorway structure.
5. Patch up any rough drywall edges around the opening with drywall, add trim for a finished look, and paint to match the surrounding walls.
6. If you plan to add a new door, install hinges, then hang and level the door in the frame. Adjust for any gaps as needed.

Tips and Tricks

• Cover nearby floors and furniture to catch dust and debris as you work.
• Take your time when cutting drywall to avoid damaging other parts of the wall.
• Check for any electrical wiring or plumbing in the wall before you start cutting, as this might require relocation.
• Ensure that all measurements for framing and trim are accurate before cutting, as this helps avoid unnecessary adjustments later.

How do I open a wall to find an old doorway?

To open a wall and find an old doorway, start by locating where you think the doorway might be. Use a stud finder to detect any unusual framing or empty spaces behind the wall, which might indicate an old door structure. Once you have a good idea of the location, carefully cut a small inspection hole in the drywall to confirm the framing behind it. If you find signs of an old doorway, use a utility knife and saw to cut along the edges and fully expose the opening. Take your time, and always check for electrical wiring or plumbing before cutting further.

What’s the best way to finish a newly opened doorway?

The best way to finish a newly opened doorway is to start by cleaning up the edges of the drywall or plaster around the opening for a smooth, even surface. Next, install trim or casing that complements the style of your home to give the doorway a polished look. Use wood filler or caulk to fill any gaps, and sand down rough spots for a seamless finish. Finally, paint or stain the trim to match the surrounding walls or woodwork. If you’re adding a door, install hinges, check for level, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure it opens and closes smoothly.