DIY Network

Archway: Traditional Arch Demo 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
	Figure D
	Figure E

Building a Traditional Archway

1. An arch structure itself consists of a few different pieces -- nailing blocks and a couple of pieces of plywood (figure A).

2. The arch has to be attached to something, and this is where a mockup (figure B) comes into play.

3. Start by cutting a piece of plywood in the design of an arch (your design if so desired) and attach it to one of the recessed nailers of the mockup -- see figure B.

4. To be able to attach the arch to the mockup you need to utilize the nailing blocks (see figure A), which is the secret to building your own arch. Once these blocks are in place that will give you something to attach the skin to so you'll have a nice finished look to your arch.

5. Once all the blocks are attached (figure C) take the plywood assembly and attach to the recessed nailing frame in the doorway with screws.

   Note: Another reason for the nailing blocks is to be able to attach a piece of hardboard (figure D -- also known as "Masonite") that curves to the blocks, which in turn creates the perfect arch.

6. Make sure the edges of the second piece of plywood arch are flush with the nailing blocks. Then screw the plywood down.

7. Be sure to cut the hardboard so it laps over the plywood to create a plush surface with clean edges, and then attach with drywall screws.

   Note: There are several types of arches that can be created for a doorway -- Quarter Circle, Half Circle, Eyebrow, Elliptical and Compound Radius.

8. To finish off the traditional arch use 1/4" drywall, which is flexible enough to bend, on the underside. But, unfortunately, without a drywall tip you won't be able to bend this drywall enough without cracking it into. The tip from Ryan is to take a piece of drywall and score the back of it with a utility knife -- these scores are called "kerfs" and they cut through the "back" of the drywall, which makes it much more flexible (figure E). Now the drywall can fit the curved arch without breaking into pieces. Use a speed square and a utility knife to create the kerf cuts 1/8" apart.

   Another method is to take a piece of drywall, spray it with water and let soak for five to 10 minutes. The drywall will be much more flexible.

In the final segment the Easy-Arch is installed to our new doorway.

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