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This guide explains how to install a commercial steel (hollow metal) door frame into a brick wall opening.Brick construction is common for schools, universities, banks, museums, warehouses, and many other commercial buildings because it deliversstrength, longevity, and a clean architectural look.
Commercial steel doors and frames are often specified in brick buildings because they provide:
For door types, frames by wall condition, code requirements, and buying guidance, visit our:Complete Hollow Metal Door Guide.
Need a fast quote on a steel door + frame built for brick wall conditions?Use our Hollow Metal Door Quote Builderor browse Hollow Metal Door Packages.
This installation video demonstrates punch & dimple (pipe & strap / existing opening) anchors.The video shows block wall, but the punch & dimple anchoring method is the same concept for brick openingswhen you are using sleeve anchors into masonry.
For brick construction, an existing opening steel frame typically butts against the brick wall.That means your opening must be larger than the door and frame size to allow proper fit, shimming, and anchoring.
Recommended rough opening dimensions for frames that butt against masonry:
Example: If your door/frame package is 3'-0" x 7'-0" (36" x 84"),your rough opening should be approximately 40-1/2" x 86-1/4".
If you are replacing an existing door and frame, and you are installing the same door/frame size,it will usually fit the existing opening without additional masonry work.If you choose a different size, expect brick/masonry work to resize the opening.
If you are adding a new opening in brick, plan your cut carefully before demolition.Brick is strong - but mistakes are expensive and time-consuming to correct.
Outline the rough opening using chalk or a straightedge line so your cut is clean and square.
We recommend using a mortar saw for precision cuts along your outline.Grinders can work, but a mortar saw keeps your cut straighter and reduces chipping.
Always use proper safety equipment (mask/respirator, safety glasses, hearing protection).After cutting, drill into the grout lines where bricks will be removed. The grout line is the weak point,making brick removal easier and cleaner.
You may still need a hammer and chisel. Work slowly so you don’t remove unintended bricks.If possible, keep removed bricks intact for future patchwork (matching brick color later is difficult).
If you are replacing an existing door/frame, remove the door first, then evaluate how the frame is held in place.Some frames have visible fasteners; others are mortared-in with wire anchors or tee anchors.
Use a hammer and chisel to break mortar free carefully without damaging surrounding brick.If anchors are present, you may need a grinder to detach them from the frame.Once the frame is removed, clean the opening of excess mortar so the new frame seats properly.
For brick openings, we recommend frames furnished with punch & dimple anchors(also called pipe and strap or existing opening anchors).These are designed for use with masonry sleeve anchors and help prevent frame flex.
Learn more about steel frame anchor types here:Hollow Metal Door Anchor Types
Set the frame into the opening and use wood spreaders at the base and mid-frame to hold accurate width during installation.
Plumb the jambs, level the head, and square the corners.(Keeping the frame square is what prevents binding, latch alignment issues, and hinge stress.)
Next, locate the pre-punched holes. Drill a 3/8" diameter hole into brick/masonry to the required embedment depth,then install sleeve anchors through the frame and tighten gradually.
Attach the door to the frame using hinges. Shim the door to maintain consistent clearancearound the perimeter when closed.Proper shimming prevents rubbing, latch misalignment, and closer problems later.
For best results (and fewer installation surprises), use a complete commercial packagebuilt for your wall condition, door type, and code requirements.
Shop:Hollow Metal Door Packages
Need help selecting the right frame for brick wall?Call 866-232-5673 or text photos to 210-275-8966.
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