DIY Network

Archway: Opening Up a Doorway From "Weekend Handyman" episode WKH-309

	In this week's episode of Weekend Handyman, host Paul Ryan widens this regular doorway ...
	and converts it by adding an "easy" archway ...
	that adds size to the entryway ...
	and a uniquely beautiful decorative element to the room! This shot is from the other side of the archway looking into the living room.

Time: 12 hours over two days.
Difficulty Rating: This project rates a 3 out of 5 on the Weekend Handyman difficulty scale.

Materials:

For the Archway --

Drop cloth
Reciprocating saw
6' level
Circular saw
Table saw
Compound miter saw
Rubber mallet
Rotary cutting tool
Easy-Arch
Drywall
Joint compound
Flexible corner bead
Spray adhesive
Protective eyewear
Hammer
2 x 6 boards
Screws
Screwdriver
Nails
Power nailer
Shims
Rasp
Self-taping screws
Plywood
Drywall screws
Utility knife
Speed square
Tape measure
Eye protection
Dust mask
Gloves

For Repairing the Floor --

Sheet metal cap
Pliers
Screws
Screwdriver
Circular saw
Table saw
Compound miter saw
Tape measure
Construction adhesive
Floor boards
Nails
Hammer
Pin nailer
1x board
Rubber mallet

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Opening Up the Doorway and Wall

1. Before the work begins be sure to lay down some drop cloths to protect the flooring. Start by carefully prying off the existing trim.

   Note and Safety Alert: In case you want to reuse the trim later, use a pair of pliers to pull the nails out from the backside of the trim. Be sure to wear eye protection!

2. To remove the door jambs, use a reciprocating saw (figure A) to cut the nails holding them in place.

3. Remove the fir strips and then use a pry bar and hammer to begin opening up the wall (figure B). Once it's open you can see what kind of framing you have and if there are any hidden problems. Check for electrical outlets and switches, phone jacks, heating vents, etc.

4. Break open the wall until you can see the stud.

5. Use a reciprocating saw to cut the plaster using the stud as a guide. Tear the big pieces off as you go along (figure C).

6. You are better off using existing framework, but you can remove studs at any time.

7. To lengthen the opening, reveal the existing header to ascertain what kind of framing you have, but wait to cut the studs.

In the next segment Ryan finishes the rough opening and starts framing in the archway.

RESOURCES :

Easy-Arch
Brand name: Elliptical Adjustable
Model #: TEL-36
Where available: Nationwide dealer network or visit the Easy-Arch website, link below.
Easy-Arch, Inc.
26900 Jefferson Ave.
Murrieta, CA 92562
Toll-free: 800-854-2461
Fax: 909-677-2476
Website: www.easy-arch.com

GUESTS :

Justin Hultman
Contractor
Autumn River
We apologize no contact information is available.

Hiro Mutoh
Easy-Arch
Executive Vice President
26900 Jefferson Ave.
Murrieta, CA 92562
Phone: 909-677-2000