Masonite offers Fast-Frame steel door frames designed for both new construction and rough openings. These frames, available in 20-gauge steel, are intended for use with Masonite doors and provide a solution for various applications, including residential and commercial settings. The documentation details frame types, installation guidance, and access to technical resources such as specifications, warranty information, and energy efficiency data. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Masonite Fast-Frame steel door frames based on available documentation.
Fast-Frame Overview and Frame Types
Masonite Fast-Frame steel door frames are presented as a solution for both new construction and rough openings. The documentation specifies several frame configurations available, including:
- Single Frames
- Double Frames
- Transom Frames
- Sidelite Frames
- Clerestory Frames
- Borrowed Lite Frames
These frames are designed to accommodate Masonite interior doors, as well as wood doors. Specific frame types mentioned include the SR Series Standard Frame, DW Series Drywall Frame, and Knocked Down Drywall Frame. Additionally, Rediframe, a Rediflex adjustable 18-gauge steel frame with Steelcraft locations, is also offered. The Fast-Frame itself is a 90-minute fire door frame prehung with a Masonite door in a 20-gauge frame.
Installation Guidance
Masonite provides installation instructions for its door frames, emphasizing the importance of following these instructions to meet warranty requirements. Installation resources are available for various door types and components, including:
- Commercial doors and frames (De La Fontaine Doors, Rediframe)
- Residential doors
- Hardware installation (Schlage, Select Hinges, Emtek, Kwikset, Johnson Hardware)
- Access doors (Cendrex, Assa Abloy)
Specific installation guidance is provided for masonry frame installation and includes hardware locations for De La Fontaine Doors, along with a corresponding handing chart. Composite jamb installation guides and Endura instructions are also available. Rogue Valley Finishing / Installation Guides are referenced as additional resources.
Technical Information and Specifications
Masonite provides a range of technical information to assist with door and frame selection and installation. This includes:
- Captiva Door Technical Information
- Architectural Concepts Door Technical Information
- Masonite Interior & Exterior Door Technical Information
- ODL Door Technical Information
- ECLISSE Pocket Door Technical Information
- Rogue Valley Door Technical Information
- Endura Technical Information
The documentation stresses the importance of selecting the appropriate door unit for a specific application and highlights that Masonite doors are designed and constructed to precise tolerances. Users are advised to “measure twice, choose once.” Downloadable manuals are available to provide data on specifications, use, and maintenance for all Masonite doors. Molded door facing technical specifications are also available.
Finishing and Preparation
For DuraStyle Wood Doors with AquaSeal technology, specific preparation instructions are provided before finishing. Users are advised to inspect the area around the sealant for wood dust or wood chips and remove any particles using a soft to medium bristle brush or a rag with mineral spirits.
Regarding stain application, the documentation notes that AquaSeal technology incorporates a paintable and stainable silicon-based sealant. However, some paint and stain products may require additional coats to achieve adequate coverage and color matching. A cotton swab or thin foam/bristle brush can be used for applying additional coats to the sealant.
Warranty and Energy Efficiency
Masonite offers comprehensive warranties on its doors, varying based on application (interior, front door, or Entry System with sidelites/transom). The company has been in the building products business for over 80 years and aims for customer satisfaction. Detailed warranty information is available for download.
Masonite is committed to energy efficiency and works with the ENERGY STAR® program. When installed correctly, Masonite doors can meet ENERGY STAR® requirements by region. Charts are available to determine the ENERGY STAR® requirements for specific areas. Energy-efficient choices can potentially save families approximately one-third on their energy bills.
Coastal and Impact Resistance
For areas prone to severe weather, Masonite offers coastal products designed to withstand high-velocity hurricane zones (HVHZ). The Hurricane-Lite™ frame, while resembling a standard frame, satisfies HVHZ code requirements and accommodates impact-rated glass. This system simplifies assembly without compromising the aesthetic appearance of the home. Florida product approvals are available for review at www.floridabuilding.org.
Sound Transmission
The documentation briefly mentions sound transmission as a consideration, but does not provide specific details or performance metrics.
Resources and Support
Masonite provides a variety of resources to support professionals and homeowners, including:
- Brochures
- Online Quote Tools
- Line Card
- CAD Library
- Technical Resources
- Installation Videos (various hardware and component manufacturers)
- Warranty Information
The documentation also references installation guides from HB&G and WindsorOne Moulding.
Conclusion
Masonite Fast-Frame steel door frames offer a range of options for both residential and commercial applications. The company provides comprehensive installation instructions, technical specifications, and warranty information to ensure proper installation and customer satisfaction. Resources are available for various frame types, finishing requirements, and energy efficiency considerations. The Hurricane-Lite™ frame provides a solution for coastal regions requiring impact resistance. Access to detailed documentation and support resources is readily available through Masonite’s website and partner manufacturers.