S D I

TECHNICAL  DATA  SERIES

122 - 07

Installation
and
Troubleshooting Guide
for
Standard
Steel Doors and Frames

STEEL DOOR INSTITUTE

30200 DETROIT ROAD · CLEVELAND, OHIO 44145
© 2007 Steel Door Institute
Contents

Foreword.. ......................................................................................................................................................................... ii

Purpose............................................................................................................................................................................. ii

Improper Door / Frame Clearance............................................................................................................................. 1

Hinge Bind Against Rabbet.. ........................................................................................................................................ 6

Hinge Bind Against Stops.. ........................................................................................................................................... 7

Twisted Door.. .................................................................................................................................................................. 8

Twisted Door Adjustments.. ......................................................................................................................................... 9

Twisted Frame............................................................................................................................................................... 11

Frame Set out of Square.. ........................................................................................................................................... 12

Frame with Rabbets Toed In or Out.. ....................................................................................................................... 16

Mutes............................................................................................................................................................................... 18

Lock Fits Loose on Strike............................................................................................................................................ 19

Lock Fits Too Tight in Strike.. ..................................................................................................................................... 20

Lockset Off Location on Door or Strike Off Location in Frame in Wall.......................................................... 21

Miter Not Closed on Frame.. ...................................................................................................................................... 22

Clearance at Bottom of Door Too Small................................................................................................................. 23

Frame and Door Hinge Misalignment.. ................................................................................................................... 24

Frame Loose on Drywall............................................................................................................................................. 26

Glazed Window Units.................................................................................................................................................. 30

Label Missing from Fire-Rated Frame..................................................................................................................... 31

Label Missing from Fire-Rated Door.. ...................................................................................................................... 32

Paint Problems.............................................................................................................................................................. 33

Water Stain Damage.................................................................................................................................................... 34

Thermal Bow.................................................................................................................................................................. 35
Foreword
The material contained in this document has been developed under the auspices of the Technical Committee of
the Steel Door Institute.
The Steel Door Institute does not condone or encourage repair methods which would adversely affect product
performance or violate and/or void product warranties.
The user of this document assumes all responsibility associated with but not limited to product performance and
violation of product warranties for any product associated with the installation and suggested repair methods in
this document.

Purpose
The intent of this document is to cover field installation problems most commonly experienced with standard
steel door and frame installations. It should be understood that most problems encountered are because of
inappropriate application of the products and/or improper installation.
The suggested method of repairs requires only basic hand tools and relatively little time. It should be understood
that more complex problems or compound problems could exist which warrant extensive field repairs and
modification to products. These types of field installation problems are not intended to be covered in this
document and should not be made without first consulting the manufacturer.
Technical Data Series SDI 122-2007

SDI-122
Installation and Troubleshooting Guide
for Standard Steel Doors and Frames

Improper Door / Frame Clearance

To insure proper door and frame function, the clearance between the door and frame must be properly
maintained. All standard steel door and frame manufacturers closely hold tolerances that result in a nominal
clearance between the door and frame of 1/8 inch. If this clearance is not maintained, interference and hardware
misalignment will occur.
Proper installation is extremely important in establishing clearances and preventing a multitude of potential
problems.
The Steel Door Institute has many publications which were developed to establish industry standards and
assist in specifying as well as installing standard steel doors and frames. One publication, ANSI/SDI 250.11,
Recommended Erection Instructions for Steel Frames, will be of assistance regarding the erection and installation of
standard steel frames.

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1
SDI 122-2007

Improper Door / Frame Clearance (continued)

Is door sagging?
If sag cannot be corrected and door and frames
returned to plumb relationship, repositioning or
shimming the strike may relieve this condition.
Additional filing maybe required (refer to page 20,
“Lock Fits Too Tight in Strike”)

Is the door binding?

Frames which are out of plumb are frequently the
causes of faulty operation of locksets and binding of
bolts in the strike. Check carefully.

Are hinges loose?

If hinge screw does not remain tight, the screw can be
held in place by the use of a “locktite” type product which
prevents the screw from loosening. Additionally, “Nyloc”
type fasteners can be used to replace the normal machine
screws.

Are hinges worn?

If excessive wear has occurred on hinge knuckles, the door
will not be held tightly. Replace hinges.

Are hinges properly swaged?

The hinge manufacturer’s specifications
should be checked to determine what the
proper hinge swage should be.
Standard swaging of
Swaging is a slight offset of the hinge leaf at standard-weight and
the barrel which permits the leaves to come heavy-weight full mortise
together. hinges, when closed to the
parallel position, provides
a 1⁄16” clearance between
leaves.

2
 SDI 122-2007

Improper Door / Frame Clearance (continued)

Remove top hinge filler for non-handed

doors
The improper clearance condition may be
improved by removing the top hinge leaf
attached to the door and taking out the
filler (hinge filler) from behind the leaf. Once
completed, reattach hinge leaf to door. A hinge
filler is used on all non-handed doors.

Add shims to bottom and/or middle

hinge
On handed or non-handed doors, the lower half
of the door can be shifted upward and toward the
strike jamb. Remove the screws which attach the
middle and/or bottom hinge(s) to the door. Insert
shims between the hinge leaf and door. Reattach
hinge leaf to door.

Standard-weight to heavy-weight hinge modifications

Although styles and types vary, many manufacturers offer built-in features that allow hinge pockets on doors
and frames to be modified from standard-weight to heavy-weight. Examples of the different methods are:
grinding or flattening down raised embossments in shim plates or reinforcements; removing or breaking off
hinge filler shim plates; adjusting set screws; and removing wire shims. These options all involve removing
material from the pocket to allow for heavy-weight depth to be achieved. As always, check with individual
manufacturers to determine the type of modifications offered.

3
SDI 122-2007

Improper Door / Frame Clearance (continued)

HEADER
Reswaging hinges
The following example shows how a hinge leaf
can be reswaged to correct minor improper door/
frame clearances. This particular method allows
HINGE the reswaging to be accomplished while the door
PIN remains in the opening and the hinge leaves remain
on the door and frame. The example shows a top
hinge reswaged to correct a sag-type condition.
HINGE JAMB However, any of the hinges can be reswaged in this
manner to compensate for conditions opposite to
that of a sag condition.

1. Remove top hinge pin.

DOOR LOCK
EDGE

STRIKE JAMB

CLEARANCE

2. Use a screwdriver to set the clearance between

the lock edge of the door and strike jamb.

HINGE LEAF
KNUCKLE ON FRAME

HINGE LEAF
KNUCKLE ON DOOR

3. Hinge knuckle will now be misaligned.

4
 SDI 122-2007

Improper Door / Frame Clearance (continued)

Reswaging hinges (continued)

As shown, the hinge leaf knuckles on the door move
to a new location once the clearance at the strike jamb
is set. The hinge leaf knuckles on the frame must now
be reswaged (bent) to align with the new location of
the hinge leaf knuckles on the door. The simplest way
to do this is to use a 5/8” – 11/16” tube wrench (a crescent
wrench will do as a second choice). Simply slip the tube
wrench down around the 1st knuckle and align it with the
new location. Once the first knuckle has been aligned,
the wrench will now slip down to the 2nd knuckle for
alignment. Repeat the process on the third knuckle. 5/8

1ST
2ND
3RD

4. Reswage and align hinge knuckles.

HINGE PIN

5. Re-insert the hinge pin and remove the screwdriver.

NOTE: As always, caution should be exercised when the hinge

leaves are not removed. Excessive pressure could damage doors/
frames. As an alternate reswaging method, the hinge can be
removed and clamped in a vise for reswaging.

5
SDI 122-2007

Hinge Bind Against Rabbet

Normally, hinge bind is found between the door and rabbet. There are several ways of shimming which will
move the door in different directions. The following guidelines should be used in shim applications.

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hinge reinforcement and the hinge leaf. This
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will move the door towards the strike jamb.
However, the hinge notch face gap will be
increased and the hinge leaf surface will not be
flush with the rabbet surface.

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leaf surface will not be flush with the backset
surface on the door.

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3. To minimize the gaps and the allow the hinge %003

leaf surfaces to remain flush with the rabbet
and backset surfaces, two shims, each half the 4)*.

thickness of those used above, could be used.

6
 SDI 122-2007

Hinge Bind Against Stops

Hinge bind against the frame stops is another item to consider. There are several ways of shimming which will
move the door in the desired direction. The following guideline should be used in shim application.

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Adjustment of Clearance Between the Door and the Frame

May be Accomplished by the Following:
1. Using Shim “A” only, door will be relocated in direction of Arrow “X”.
2. Using Shim “B” only, will move both door and centerline of hinge barrel in direction of Arrow “X”.
3. Using both Shims “A” and “B” will relocate the door in direction of Arrow “X” by a greater amount than by using
Shim “B” alone.
4. Using Shim “C” only, door will be relocated in direction of Arrow “Y”.
5. Using Shim “D” only, both door and centerline of hinge barrel will move in direction of Arrow “Y”.
6. Using both Shims “C” and “D” will relocate the door in direction of Arrow “Y” by a greater amount than by using
either “C” or “D” alone. The centerline of hinge barrel will be relocated the same as by using Shim “D” alone.

7
SDI 122-2007

Twisted Door
Normal installation results in the plane of the door face being parallel
with the plane of the frame face. If the frame is square and plumb, all face
surfaces of the frame will be in the same plane. A twisted door will “break
through” the frame’s face plane surface. BE SURE the frame is square and
plumb. If it is not, the problem is probably with the frame installation and
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8
 SDI 122-2007

Twisted Door Adjustments

When required, it is possible to “spring” the door back to (or much closer to) its ideal position of being parallel
with the imaginary plane across the faces of the frame. This can usually be done with the door remaining in the
frame. A piece of wood blocking must be placed between the door and frame. Pressure is then applied at the
twisted area to “spring” the door. However, caution should be exercised on drywall installations since the frame
could possibly work lose from the wall, particularly with slip-on drywall type frames.

Twisted at Top
When the top lock area of a door is “breaking-through”
the imaginary plane, place a wood block on floor,
between door and frame as shown. Apply pressure to
the top lock area as shown to “spring” door back into
position. Remove wood block, close door and check
condition. Repeat if necessary.

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Twisted at Bottom
When the bottom lock area of door is “breaking-
through” the imaginary plane, place a wood block
between frame head and door as shown. Apply
pressure to the bottom lock area as shown to “spring”
door back into position. Remove wood, close door and
check condition. Repeat if necessary.

9
SDI 122-2007

Twisted Door Adjustments (continued)

An alternate method can also be used which will allow the door to remain in the opening. This method might be
appropriate in drywall installations as previously mentioned. Although the example shown deflects the top half
of the door, this method could be used on the bottom half of the door as well.

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10
 SDI 122-2007

Twisted Frame
Wall conditions and anchoring methods can cause the frame to be “twisted” in the opening. The two jamb
(hinge and strike) faces are not in the same imaginary plane as discussed in the twisted door section. This can be
checked by using a level and/or plumb bob. Frames do not have adjustments when it comes to “twist”.
The “twist” condition is generally caused by the wall conditions. The frame jamb faces are prevented from being
set in the same plane because the walls are out of plane to begin with.
The options available to correct this problem depend, to a large extent, on the wall construction.

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11
SDI 122-2007

Frame Set out of Square

Proper frame installation cannot be overemphasized. In the majority
of wall constructions, (“slip-on” drywall type frames being the
major exception) “quick” or “easy” field fixes are limited. Improperly
set frames that are drastically out of square will cause severe door
and hardware problems. These types of situations would require
extensive field repair and may result in having to remove frames
from walls to gain access to frame anchoring.
If the “out of square” condition is slight, some adjustment can be
made by shimming and/or adjusting anchors, particularly if the
frame being worked on is a slip-on drywall type.
The most versatile frame to work with in correcting these types Corner Clip
of conditions is the “slip-on” drywall frame. The manufacturers’ Header to jamb connection
instructions should be referenced, but generally most “slip-on”
drywall frames have a sill anchor at the bottom of the jamb and a
compression anchor between the top hinge and the header. Also,
most jambs have corner clips that have a hole to accept a screw. The
corner clip and hole align with a hole in the header. The adjustment
of slip-on drywall frames can be made using these anchors or corner
clips.

¡ ¡

"

Compression Anchor
(Cut-away view)

PROPERLY SET FRAME

All corners are 90º. The dimension taken
at Point “A” is equal to the dimension
checked at Point “B”. Both hinge and
strike jambs are plumb and level.
Sill Anchors
Snap-in type or screw type

12
 SDI 122-2007

Frame Set out of Square (continued)

The following examples illustrate how a frame can be set out of square.

¡ ¡ IMPROPERLY SET FRAME (A)

One corner is greater than 90º and one corner is less than 90º. The miters
do not properly align with one another and “gaps” are created in the miters
which are opposites of one another. The dimension taken at point “A” would
" remain the same when checked at point “B” if the 90º corners are out of
square an equal number of degrees.
This condition can be corrected by adjusting the compression anchors in
and/or out of each jamb as required. Loosen the corner clip screws if the
frame is so equipped before making adjustments; retighten when finished.
The compression anchors must be adjusted (turned) in opposite directions
# to allow the jambs to move.
For the illustration shown, the strike jamb compression anchor screw
must be turned counterclockwise to retract the compression anchor
and give room for the frame to be adjusted back into position using the
hinge jamb compression anchor. The hinge jamb compression anchor
screw is then turned clockwise to advance the anchor and push the
frame towards the room made at the strike jamb. The frame should
be brought into square
with the header and the hinge jamb compression anchor. Once this
is done, the strike jamb compression anchor screw can be turned
clockwise, advancing the anchor snug against the stud. The corner
slip screws should then be retightened.

13
SDI 122-2007

Frame Set out of Square (continued)

IMPROPERLY SET FRAME (B)

¡ ¡
The corners are both greater than or less than 90º. The miters
do not properly align with one another. When the corner is
less than 90º the miter will have a gap which increases as it
goes towards the return. When the corner is greater than 90º
the miter will have a gap, which increases as it goes towards
" the rabbet. Dimensions taken at point “A” and “B” will not
be equal. This condition will always result in dimension “B”
being either greater than or less than the nominal opening
dimension which would be obtained if checked between
jambs along the header.

95° 95°

Jambs Toed In at Sill

A

To correct this condition, the sill anchors must be

loosened to allow the bottom of each jamb to be
moved in and/or out. In the case of the snap-in type
sill anchor, the baseboard trim might have to be B
removed to gain access to the anchors. This type of
anchor is generally used because it can be hidden by
covering it with the baseboard trim.
If the jambs are toed in at the sills, the compression
anchors might have to be retracted slightly so the
sill (base) of the jambs can be pushed out. The jambs
should be plumbed, squared with the header and
leveled as they are pushed out into their proper Jambs Toed Out at Sill
position. The sill anchors should be reset, the
compression anchors adjusted and retightened. The
baseboard trim should be reattached to the wall if it had been removed.
A similar procedure should be used if the jambs are toed out at the sills. The
sill (base) of the jambs should be pushed in towards the opening. The jambs
should be plumbed, squared with the header and leveled as they are pushed
into their proper position. The sill anchors should be reset, the compression
anchors adjusted (extended) and retightened. The baseboard trim should be
reattached to the wall if it had been removed.

14
 SDI 122-2007

Frame Set out of Square (continued)

IMPROPERLY SET FRAME (C) 90° 95°

One corner is properly set at 90º while the other
corner is greater or less than 90º. The dimension
taken at point “A” will constantly change when
checked at various points going towards point “B.”
The corner miter will not properly align between the A

header and jamb which is not set at 90º

The jamb which is not 90º to the header must be
moved. To correct this condition, the sill anchor must
be loosened to allow the bottom of the jamb to be
moved in or out as required. In the case of the snap- B

in type sill anchor, the baseboard trim may have to

be removed to gain access to the anchor. This type of
anchor is generally used because it can be hidden by
covering it with the baseboard trim.

One Jamb Toed Out

¡ ¡

If the jamb is toed in at the sill, the compression

"
anchor may have to be retracted slightly so the sill
(base) of the jamb can be pushed out. The jamb
should be plumbed, squared with the header and
leveled as it is being pushed out into its proper
position. The sill anchor should be reset, the
compression anchor adjusted and retightened. The
baseboard trim should be reattached to the wall if it
had been removed.
#
A similar procedure should be used when the jamb
is toed out at the sill. The sill (base) of the jamb
should be pushed in towards the opening. The jamb
should be plumbed, squared with the header and
leveled as it is pushed into its proper position. The
sill anchor should be reset, the compression anchor
adjusted (fastened) and retightened. The baseboard
One Jamb Toed In trim should be reattached to the wall if it had been
removed.

15
SDI 122-2007

Frame with Rabbets Toed In or Out

The importance of proper initial frame installation is evident in this condition. In the majority of wall
constructions, except for the “slip-on” drywall type frames, “quick,” “easy” field fixes are limited. Improperly set
frames which have the rabbets drastically toed in or out would require extensive field repair and in most cases
require that the wall be entered to gain access to frame anchoring.
The toed in or out condition is worse near the floor. The header prevents the upper portion of the jambs from
toeing in or out but as you move away from the header towards the floor, the jambs have greater potential to be
toed in our out during installation.
The only frame with this condition which can be corrected with little difficulty is the “slip-on” drywall frame. Since
the “slip-on” drywall frame uses only compression anchors near the head and sill anchors near the bottom of the
jambs, this condition is easily corrected.

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Note that the rabbet surfaces are not
90° to the plane of the wall. This can
be checked by placing a straight edge
across the face of both jambs.
The straight edge should set flat
across both faces at the same time. If
¡ the jambs are twisted, a “gap” will be
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Typical toed-in or out condition

The figures to the right show the two typical !

types of sill anchors used on the “slip-on”
drywall frame.
“A” shows an anchor which will be covered
up by the baseboard trim. To gain access to
this anchor the baseboard trim must first be
removed. Next, the nails or screws holding the
anchors to the wall must be removed. This will
loosen the jamb and allow it to be squared in
the opening.
“B” illustrates a screw going through the face of
the frame into the wall. This holds the sill of the
frame in position. This screw is exposed and "
is readily accessible. Removing the screw will
loosen the jamb and allow it to be “squared-
up” in the opening. If both jambs are toed in/
out, they both should be “squared-up.” This can
be checked by taking measurements as shown below. Both the “A” and “B” dimensions will be the same when the
frames are properly set. However, the frame jambs must be plumb, level, and square with the head of the frame.

16
 SDI 122-2007

Frame with Rabbets Toed In or Out (continued)

%*.
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#

If both jambs are toed in/out, they both should be “squared-up.” This can be checked by taking measurements as
shown above. Both the “A” and “B” dimensions will be the same when the frames are properly set.
The below figure shows a condition which can give the impression that the frame is properly installed. Both
dimensions “A” and “B” will be equal but the frame will not be square in the opening. Both jambs can be twisted
to create a parallelogram. This can be checked by placing a straight edge across the face of both jambs (the
straight edge is represented by the dotted line shown below. The straight edge should set flat across both faces
at the same time. If the jambs are twisted, a “gap” will be created as shown in the illustration. The “gaps” will be
to the same side if a parallelogram was created. The gaps could also be to opposite sides as shown in the Typical
Toed In or Out Condition figure on the previous page.
This condition can be corrected as outlined for the other “toe out” or “toe in” examples.

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17
SDI 122-2007

Mutes
Some manufacturers provide a mute hole in the frame stop to accept a push-in mute. A “stick-on” mute is also
available for application to frames without the mute hole. The mute acts as a “rubber bumper” which evenly
holds the door off the stop at a constant distance. If the door is held off of the stop rather than being allowed to
move slightly towards the stop, the latch tube will fit tighter into the strike. Three mutes are placed on the strike
jamb, one toward the top of the jamb (nearer the header) and one toward the bottom of the jamb (nearer the
sill) and the third near the strike preparation.

18
 SDI 122-2007

Lock Fits Loose on Strike

This condition cannot be caused by an improperly set door and/or frame. If the lockset on the door was not
properly aligned with the strike on the frame, interference would occur or the latch bolt would bind in the strike.
Since this is not the case; the cause is something other than improper installation. The following should be
checked:

PROPER STRIKE
Is the proper strike plate attached to the frame?

RIM EXIT DEVICES

An adjustable strike plate is provided. Is the strike plate
properly adjusted to prove positive and secure latching?

19
SDI 122-2007

Lock Fits Too Tight in Strike

Proper installation of the door and frame are essential. If the door and frame are not properly aligned, the latch
bolt could bind in the strike. The following items should be checked:

IMPROPER CLEARANCE/DOOR SAG

For various conditions, refer to page 4.

HINGE BIND
For various conditions of hinge bind, refer to page 6.

TWISTED DOOR
For various conditions of twisted doors, refer to page 8.

TWISTED FRAMES
For various conditions of twisted frames, refer to page 11.

FRAME SET OUT OF SQUARE

For various conditions of frames set out of square,
refer to page 12.

PROPER STRIKE
Is the proper strike plate attached to the frame?

The previously mentioned items

should be checked and any problems
&
corrected. If the latch continues to
'*- tightly engage the strike, additional
clearance can be created by filing the
strike or bending the latch bolt lip as
shown. However, this should only be
done as a final option.
#&/%

20
 SDI 122-2007

Lockset Off Location on Door or

Strike Off Location in Frame in Wall
Minor location adjustments usually can be accomplished by altering the strike plate. The strike plate alteration
would “extend” the opening to allow the latch tube to properly engage the strike. This is similar to the section
“Lock Fits Too Tight in Strike” except that the amount of material removed from the strike is greater. This could
compensate for minor mislocation of the strike plate on the frame and/or location of the lockset on the door.
These general steps should be followed for modifying the strike plate.

MARK AREA
TO BE REMOVED

• Mark the area on the strike plate which must

be removed.
• Remove strike plate from frame.
• Center punch corners of area to be removed
and drill a 1/8” diameter hole in each corner.
• Use a saber saw and cut from the existing
opening up to the 1/8” diameter holes. The
remaining material between the two 1/8” holes
should be filed away.
• Dress off all rough edges and corners with
a file. This must be done since any irregular
edges or edges with burrs could cause the
latch tube to “drag” or “hang up” in the strike
plate. DRILL HOLES

• Reassemble strike plate to frame and check

alignment with lockset on door as well as latch
tube function in and out of strike plate.

CUT

21
SDI 122-2007

Miter Not Closed on Frame

The major cause of miters not properly lining up and “closing” is incorrect installation. The effects of improper
installation on miter seams are covered under the previous section of “Frame Set Out of Square.” This section
should be referenced for detailed explanations of conditions which could occur, and solutions for correcting the
problems.
This condition could also be caused by conditions as explained in the “Frame Loose on Drywall” section—figures
on page 28.

22
 SDI 122-2007

Clearance at Bottom of Door Too Small

The available options for correcting this problem are limited. Frames which are permanently anchored to the
wall construction (such as masonry or steel stud) leave few alternatives. The only available “fix” is to trim the
bottom of the door, if the door’s construction will permit trimming. As shown in the figure below, the nominal
“sill clearance” should be ¾ of an inch. The sill clearance is the dimension from the bottom of the door to the
bottom of the frame jambs, and ¾” is a standard industry wide dimension.
The frame jambs should be set at
floor level which then results in ¾ of
an inch between the bottom of the
door and floor.
The ¾ “ also provides enough room
to allow the installation of a “raised
sill” which is a type of flat threshold.
If a raised sill is used, the ¾ inch
clearance is decreased to 3/8 inch.
Before any alterations are made the
door height dimensions should be %*.
# %*.
"
checked.
The door height is determined by
taking a measurement represented
by dimension “A” in the figure. If
the door height is “oversize” the
clearance at the bottom will be too
small.
The frame jamb height (which £ '-003

-*/&
is the same as the opening
height) is determined by taking
a measurement represented by
dimension “B”. If the jam height is
“undersize,” the clearance at the
bottom will be too small.
The bottom of the frame jams should be set “on” the floor not “in” the floor. In some special cases the jambs can
be set “in” the floor but this requires special design consideration and adjustments in door height and jamb
heights. If this was not compensated for in the designed heights, the clearance at the bottom could be too small.
By taking these basic dimensions, you can confirm what element of the opening is in error. If trimming the
bottom of the door is considered, you must make sure that the door’s design will allow such a modification to
be made. It is best to contact the distributor or the manufacturer to determine if and how much the door can be
trimmed. These types of trimming modifications can be relatively simple or more extensive depending on door
design.

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD MODIFICATIONS BE MADE TO FIRE-RATED-LABELED DOORS

AND FRAMES.

23
SDI 122-2007

Frame and Door Hinge Misalignment

Frame and door hinge misalignment can cause a variety of problems. When misalignment occurs, either the
door’s hinge locations or frame’s hinge locations are slightly off. This can apply to retrofitting existing openings
where either the door or frame is being replaced, but not both. When new doors and frames are provided from a
single manufacturer, this problem does not exist.
The example shown on the following page reflects the dropping of the hinge leaf which attaches to the door
from its relationship to the hinge leaf on the frame. However, by removing material from the opposite end of
the knuckles, the door hinge leaf could be raised as well. The frame hinge leaf can also be relocated in similar
fashion.

)*/(&
-&"'
0/
'3".&

.*4"-*(/.&/5
)*/(&
-&"'
0/
%003

o
.645
.07&
%08/

1301&3

$-&"3"/$&

24
 SDI 122-2007

Frame and Door Hinge Misalignment (continued)

Hinge leaf Hinge leaf on door
on frame (must move down)

Since the hinge leaf on the door must

move down, material must be taken
off of he knuckles as shown. Mark the
amount to be removed equal to the
misalignment.

Hinge pin

Hinge leaf on frame Hinge leaf on door

Disassemble hinge.
Remove material on
knuckles equal to the
misalignment.

Hinge leaf Hinge leaf

on frame on door

Reassemble hinge leaves and insert hinge pin.

Note: Gaps will now exist between the
knuckles in the areas shown. Proper thickness
and diameter flat washers can be placed in
these areas during hinge assembly.

25
SDI 122-2007

Frame Loose on Drywall

Frame manufacturers closely control the dimensions to which their frames are manufactured. Since automated
equipment is used these dimensions are easily repeated from piece to piece. The majority of cases where frames
are loose on drywall will reveal that the overall wall thickness has not been properly maintained. Wall thickness
conditions can vary from undersize to oversize. The thickness should be checked, if possible, to verify the wall’s
compliance with the job specification.
Frames installed in drywall walls can use two different anchoring methods:

WELDED/SNAP-IN STEEL, OR WOOD STUD ANCHORS

Some frames use welded or snapped-in steel or wood stud anchors. These frames are installed prior to the
drywall material being attached to the studs. The drywall can either be “butted-up” against the return of the
frame or be “tucked in” behind the return of the frame. Only in the installation where the drywall is “tucked in”
behind the return can there be a condition where the frame is loose on the drywall. This gap could be uniform
along the entire length (height) of the jamb or could be only in certain areas. Since the frame cannot be
removed, the only available options are to caulk the gap or cover it with trim.

%SZXBMM
iUVDLFE
JOw

CFIJOE
GSBNF
SFUVSO

$BVMLJOH
PS
USJN

("1

26
 SDI 122-2007

Frame Loose on Drywall (continued)

DRYWALL FRAMES WITH COMPRESSION ANCHORS

These frames are intended to be installed after the wall construction is complete. The anchoring methods that
this type of frame uses allows the removal of the frame if so desired. The manufacturers’ installation instructions
should be followed anytime the frame is removed and reinstalled. Three conditions could exist for drywall slip-on
frames which are “loose on the wall.”
1) The first condition is a uniform gap along the entire length (height) of the frame jambs. The frame should be
removed from the opening and the wall thickness checked at numerous places around the opening. These
measurements should be compared to the job specifications. If the wall thickness is undersize, two options
are available.
a) If the gap is relatively small, the use of caulking or trim can be considered to cover the gap when the
frame is installed.
b) If the gap is larger, the use of “spacers” can offset the lacking wall thickness. The use of spacers requires
that the frame be removed from the opening, the spacer(s) attached, and the frame reinstalled. The
spacers can be used on either one or both of the frame returns which would result in spacers on either
one side or both sides of the wall. Spacers are available from the frame manufacturer.

SPACERS ARE NOT TO BE USED ON LABELED FIRE DOOR FRAMES.

6TF
TQBDFS
PO
6TF
TQBDFS
PO

POF
SFUVSO CPUI
SFUVSOT

4QBDFS

Check wall thickness

27
SDI 122-2007

Frame Loose On Drywall (continued)

2) The second condition would be a gap that

changes along the length (height) of the
jamb. This condition is generally found
in steel stud construction and results in
“over thick” walls in the upper corners
of the opening, refer to Figure 5. This is
usually a direct result of how the steel
stud headers were attached to the vertical
steel studs to form the opening. When the
wall is oversize (in this area) it will force
the header and jamb miters to spread
apart and actually open up the throat
dimensions to accept the oversize wall.
This will cause the corners of the frame to
be extremely tight on the wall and as you
progress down the jamb, a gap will begin
to develop and then gradually disappear
closer to the floor, see figure on following
page. Areas where wall thickness
may be over-thick in steel-
stud construction.

*;&
&34
--
07
8"

)&"%

+".#

Frame spreads apart with oversize wall.

28
 SDI 122-2007

Frame Loose on Drywall (continued)

)&"%
This condition should be reported to the appropriate
jobsite personnel. The condition can be corrected by
putting a bearing plate on each side of the corner
and compressing the internal steel studs with a
clamp. However, the responsibility for correcting this
condition belongs to the sub-contractor responsible )5
for the actual wall construction. 5*(
+".#
4&
$ 3&"
1
*/
("
4&
$ 3&"
1
*/
("

"4&
& $3&
1
%
("
&
$3 &"4
1
%&
("
$-".1
'*5
1 &3

130

Gap produced by oversized wall.

Correct oversized wall

condition by compressing
internal steel studs.

3) The third condition is different from the first two which address the “fit” of the frame over the wall thickness.
The cause of this condition is compression anchors which have not been tightened. The drywall frame would
then be loose across the width of the opening and move from side to side against the rough opening.
The frame should be plumbed, squared and secured in the opening by properly adjusting the compression
anchors following the manufacturers’ instructions.

29
SDI 122-2007

Glazed Window Units

Hollow metal borrowed lite, transom, and combination sidelite frames are an excellent choice for exterior
openings due to their design flexibility, thermal performance, and security. These types of frames are not factory
sealed to prevent water infiltration; the contractor/installer must seal all joints that are exposed to the elements
after the frame assembly is installed.
Whenever possible it is strongly recommended that the glass and glazing be installed on the exterior rabbet of
the frame. This will act as a deterrent to water penetration.
Manufacturers cannot control the workmanship associated with the installation of these types of frames,
therefore, this work must be specified in the installation/glazing/caulking section of specifications.

30
 SDI 122-2007

Label Missing from Fire-Rated Frame

Like doors, fire-rated frames are an important element of compliance with building codes and fire protection
standards. Consequently, proper control of the labels which are attached to the frame is top priority for the
manufacturer, code official and labeling agency. (The manufacturer must account for every label used and
the label can only be applied at the manufacturer’s facility or at an authorized labeling distributor of the
manufacturer.) Once the product is in the field, whether it is installed or not, no one, including the manufacturer
is permitted to attach labels unless a representative of the manufacturer’s labeling agency has inspected the
product for compliance with the manufacturer’s procedures. Only authorized individuals can be in possession of
and attach labels to fire rated products in the field. Anything else is ILLEGAL!
All labels on fire rated frames are located on the hinge jamb between the top and middle hinge (see figure
below). It should be noted that some frames have an embossed label, rather than a surface-attached label. The
embossed label is stamped into the frame rabbet and can be painted over.
If the label or embossment is not present, the frame distributor should be contacted.

501
)*/(&

-"#&-

Special Notes:
• Borrowed light frames may have .*%%-&
)*/(&
labels applied to soffit of frame
due to glass and glazing bead
location.
• Frames incorporating continuous
hinges may have labels applied to
soffit or frame head.
• See manufacturer’s procedures.

31
SDI 122-2007

Label Missing from Fire-Rated Door

Fire-rated doors are an important element of compliance with building codes and fire protection standards.
Consequently, proper control of the labels is top priority for the manufacturer, code official and labeling agency.
(The manufacturer must account for every label used and the label can only be applied at the manufacturer’s
facility or at an authorized labeling distributor of the manufacturer.) Once the product is in the field, whether
it’s installed or not, no one, including the manufacturer is permitted to attach labels unless a representative of
the manufacturer’s labeling agency has inspected the product for compliance with the manufacturer’s labeling
procedures. Only authorized individuals may be in possession of and attach labels to fire rated products in the
field. Anything else is ILLEGAL!
Labels on fire-rated doors are located in one of two places, either between the top and middle hinge, or on the
top channel (see figure). Be sure you are looking for the label in the correct location.
If the label is not present, the door distributor should be contacted.

501
$)"//&-

Special Notes:
501
)*/(&
• Labeled doors incorporating continu-
ous hinges may have labels placed on
the top channel of the door. Check
with the individual manufacturer to
-"#&- determine location of label.
• Labeled hollow metal transom panels
may need to be removed to verify
labeling if fully enclosed by a fixed
hollow metal frame.
• See manufacturer’s procedures.
.*%%-&
)*/(&

#0550.
)*/(&

32
 SDI 122-2007

Paint Problems

PAINT PEELING TO BARE METAL

Two conditions exist that must be considered when evaluating paint peeling to bare metal.

1. Prime Paint Only

If the product is only prime painted, and peeling has occurred, then poor adhesion between the primer and bare
metal has occurred. This can usually be attributed to inadequate surface preparation before prime painting. The
bare metal must be adequately prepared to ensure good prime paint adhesion.
The door should be completely sanded, washed with solvent and re-primed. The sanding and washing
operations provide an adequate surface to assure good primer adhesion.

2. Prime Paint and Top (Finish) Coat

The failure could be caused by either poor surface preparation before prime painting or the use of a non-
compatible finish paint that has reacted with the primer and lifted all paint from bare metal. In either case the
corrective measure would be the same. The door should be completely sanded and washed with an appropriate
solvent. The door should then be re-primed. Lightly sand the prime coat, wipe and finish-paint with a compatible
top coat.
Whenever the door is being prepared for top or finish-coat painting the surface should be cleaned. Use the same
solvent that will be used to thin the topcoat paint and thoroughly clean all surfaces to be painted.

PAINT IN TAPPED HOLES

Both hollow metal doors and frames have various holes that are drilled and tapped. These holes are in various
components such as reinforcements. All of the components are brought together as an assembly prior to the
painting operation.
There are a variety of painting methods manufacturers can use. Some of these methods can result in paint build-
up in the tapped holes of the reinforcements. This build-up can make installation of screws difficult. The build-up
should be removed to make screw installation easier and assure that the screws are properly seated.
The best method of cleaning the tapped holes is to use an actual thread tap which matches the screw thread.
The tap will easily cut though and clean paint build-up and by running it in and out of the hole. If the build-up is
not as great and extra screws are available (or can be obtained) a screw can be run in and out of the hole to clean
minor build-up prior to final screw installation.

33
SDI 122-2007

Water Stain Damage

Water stain damage is a direct result of improper storage. If the product is still in prime paint (no finish coat has
been applied) the condition is easily detectable as follows:
• Initially, the water stain appears as a discoloration or variance in sheen or gloss in
the primer. Damaged areas will look and possibly feel different from the rest of the
product.
• If the water stain has existed for a considerable length of time and was caused by
large amounts of water, rust will start to appear through the discolored areas.
If the product has had a finish coat of paint applied, water stain damage can cause failure of the finish coat as
well:
• Water stain damage can be detected by random areas of finish paint failure on the
door as well as the appearance of uniform rust development on those areas. In some
cases the finish paint will show good adhesion in water damaged areas but will also
show a uniform layer of rust developing through the finish paint.

To correct water stain damage, use the following guidelines:

• For products that are prime painted only, the affected areas should be adequately
sanded. If necessary, the area should be sanded to bare metal. The entire door/frame
surface should then be lightly sanded and “feathered” into any heavily sanded areas.
The entire surface should then be re-prime painted.
• For products that are finish painted, the affected areas should be adequately sanded.
If necessary the area should be sanded to bare metal. The entire remaining finish-
painted area should then be lightly sanded and “feathered” into any heavily sanded
areas. If bare metal is showing, these areas should be re-prime painted and lightly
sanded to “feather” into the lightly sanded finish-painted areas. The product should
then be re-finish painted.
• When the door is being prepared for top or finish coat painting, the surface should
first be cleaned. Use the same solvent that will be used to thin the topcoat paint
and thoroughly clean all surfaces to be painted.

34
 SDI 122-2007

Thermal Bow
Installers need to be aware of a condition known as Thermal Bow. Thermal Bow is a temporary condition which
may occur in metal doors due to the inside-outside temperature differential. This is more common when the
direct rays of the sun are on a door surface. This condition is temporary, and to a great extent depends on the
door color, door construction, length of exposure, temperature, etc. This condition can often be alleviated by
painting the exposed surface a light color. Thermal bow can occur in reverse under extremely cold conditions.
Typical symptoms of thermal bow are hardware latching difficulty and door clearance issues.

35
 MEMBERS OF THE
AVAILABLE PUBLICATIONS STEEL DOOR INSTITUTE

Specifications Amweld Building Products, Inc.

P.O. Box 267
ANSI/SDI A250.6 Recommended Practice for Hardware Reinforcings on Standard Garrettsville, OH 44231
Steel Doors and Frames (330) 527-4385
ANSI/SDI A250.8 SDI 100 Recommended Specifications for Standard Steel Doors & Fax (330) 527-4510
Frames
SDI-108 Recommended Selection & Usage Guide for Standard Steel Doors Ceco Door PRODUCTS
9159 Telecom Drive
SDI-109 Hardware for Standard Steel Doors & Frames Milan, TN 38358
SDI-118 Basic Fire Door Requirements (731) 686-8345
Fax (731) 686-4211
SDI-128 Guidelines for Acoustical Performance of Standard Steel Doors &
Frames
Curries Company
SDI-129 Hinge & Strike Spacing P.O. Box 1648
Mason City, IA 50402-1648
Test Procedures (641) 423-1334
ANSI/SDI A250.3 Test Procedure & Acceptance Criteria for Factory Applied Finish Fax (641) 423-9104
Coatings for Steel Doors & Frames
ANSI/SDI A250.4 Test Procedure & Acceptance Criteria for Physical Endurance for Deansteel Manufacturing Co.
111 Merchant Street
Steel Doors, Frames, Frame Anchors & Hardware Reinforcings
San Antonio, TX 78204-1496
ANSI/SDI A250.10 Test Procedure & Acceptance Criteria for Prime Painted Steel (210) 226-8271
Surfaces for Steel Doors & Frames Fax (210) 226-0913
ANSI/SDI A250.13 Testing and Rating of Severe Windstorm Resistant Components
for Swinging Door Assemblies Mesker Door, Inc.
3440 Stanwood Boulevard
SDI-113 Standard Practice for Determining the Steady State Thermal Huntsville, AL 35811-9021
Transmittance of Steel Door & Frame Assemblies (256) 851-6670
SDI-131 Accelerated Physical Endurance Test Procedure for Steel Doors, Fax (888) 851-7896
Frames and Frame Anchors
Pioneer Industries, Inc.
Construction Details 171 South Newman Street
ANSI/SDI A250.11 Recommended Erection Instructions for Steel Frames Hackensack, NJ 07601
(201) 933-1900
SDI-110 Standard Steel Doors & Frames for Modular Masonry Construction
Fax (201) 933-9580
SDI-111 Recommended Selection & Usage Guide for Standard Details
Steel Doors, Frames and Accessories Republic
SDI-122 Installation & Troubleshooting Guide for Standard Steel Doors & 155 Republic Drive
Frames McKenzie, TN 38201-0580
(731) 352-3383
SDI Drywall Slip-On Frames Fax (731) 352-3001
Miscellaneous Documents Security Metal Products Corp.
ANSI/SDI A250.7 Nomenclature for Standard Steel Doors & Steel Frames 5700 Hannum Avenue
SDI-106 Recommended Standard Door Type Nomenclature Suite 250
Culver City, CA 90230
SDI-112 Zinc-Coated (Galvanized/Galvannealed) Standard Steel Doors &
(310) 641-6690
Frames Fax (310) 641-6601
SDI-117 Manufacturing Tolerances for Standard Steel Doors & Frames
SDI-124 Maintenance of Standard Steel Doors & Frames Steelcraft
IR Security & Safety
SDI-127 Industry Alert Series (A-J) 9017 Blue Ash Road
SDI-130 Electrified Hinge Preparations Cincinnati, OH 45242
SDI What is The SDI? (513) 745-6400
Fax (513) 745-6446
AUDIO-VISUAL PROGRAMS ON 1/2" VHS ALSO AVAILABLE

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9/21/2007 www.steeldoor.org