
Whether you distribute or install doors, you might have heard of the knockdown door frame. Did you know that we at Manhattan Door invented this innovative door frame that has become the industry standard in modern construction? The history of the knockdown door is part of our proud heritage, and we would like to tell you more about this revolutionary invention.
The term “knockdown door” refers to an innovative steel door frame designed for easy installation in existing structures. Typically, door frames are hung during construction and require some demolition and rebuilding by a professional to install in an existing building.
The hardwearing knockdown door frame streamlines this process. It allows contractors and property owners to install or remove the door frame without damaging the wall, making it easy for contractors and DIY enthusiasts to carry out the installation themselves.
Usually installed in interior doorways, these frames make leveling and adjustments less of a challenge because they include several moving parts instead of one large immovable door frame.
A knockdown door frame comprises three primary components:
Compression anchors inside the door frame are adjusted to compress the frame against the wall’s wooden or metal stud and hold it in place.
Our rich history began in New York City during the industrial revolution. Founded by Sam Sklar, our company started as a humble door-to-door business. Sam would drive door-to-door in a small truck offering home improvement services, including floor glazing and painting.
Today, we remain a family-owned and operated business, with Sam’s grandchildren, Michael and Laura Sklar, leading as third-generation owners. Jacob, Lauren and Stephanie Sklar represent the fourth generation and are already actively involved, poised to continue the family legacy.
Under the leadership of Michael and Laura, our company has become a prominent commercial wood door manufacturer in New Jersey, driven by innovation, hard work and a commitment to exceptional customer service. Our business has grown significantly over the years. Still, our dedicated team remains true to the core values established by Sam eight decades ago — to provide top-quality commercial interior wood door solutions that exceed expectations.
He may not have known it then, but in 1956, Sam Sklar revolutionized the world of door construction when he invented the knockdown door frame. Before that, door frame installation was just possible during construction and required a qualified building contractor to remove or replace frames.
The introduction of the knockdown door frame meant that frames could be disassembled and reassembled with relative ease and allowed for installation on existing walls and removal without the need for demolition or construction.
To understand how the knockdown door frame became one of the most popular door frames in history, consider its intrinsic benefits, which include:
Given these benefits, you can see how the knockdown door gained commercial appeal and became the industry standard for interior door frames.
Today’s knockdown door is an efficient and effective solution recommended by architects and engineers and used by construction professionals worldwide.
Installation involves adding the three main components of the frame one at a time, starting with the hinge jamb, as follows:
Thanks to Sam Sklar, the modern knockdown door frame is a lightweight system primed for cost-effective, easy installation and transportation.
As one of the fastest door manufacturers in the industry, we offer you quality doors at lightning speed. In fact, our commercial wood door team can build your doors in one day. If you need premium quality wood doors, contact us for a quote for your next order.