For door installations, what should be nailed first?

When installing a door, nailing the stop on the lock side first is the correct approach because it provides a proper alignment for the door and ensures that it fits snugly against the frame. By securing the stop along the lock side, you establish a reference point for the door’s position, which can help prevent gaps and promote smooth operation. This step is crucial because it helps to ensure that when the door is closed, it aligns correctly with the locking mechanism and does not bind or swing out of alignment.

The other aspects of the installation process, such as nailing the hinge side or the rails of the door itself, generally come after establishing the lock side. Focusing first on the lock side allows for adjustments to be easily made if necessary, as it serves as the primary alignment feature for the opening. Once the lock side is in place and correctly aligned, completing the installation by securing the hinge side and other components becomes more straightforward and effective.