Welded vs Knock Down Door Frames

A knock-down, or cut-and-notch, door frame consists of three separate pieces: the hinge jamb, strike jamb, and head. These components are shipped unassembled and mechanically connected or interlocked at the job site during installation. KD frames are typically utilized in completed drywall partition openings, offering ease of transport, storage, and handling throughout commercial facilities.

Hollow metal door frames are manufactured across standard steel thickness options ranging from 16 gauge to 12 gauge steel. Heavier 12 gauge construction provides increased durability for high-abuse commercial environments, while 16 gauge provides reliable performance for typical commercial doorways, fire-rated assemblies, and standard architectural interior installations.

Yes, hollow metal frames are available with UL fire-rated labels to meet life-safety and building code requirements. Whether choosing fully welded or cut-and-notch frame assemblies, qualifying configurations can be engineered to support fire-rated egress openings, corridor barriers, transoms, and sidelite assemblies in commercial and institutional projects.

Yes, specialty frame configurations are manufactured in both welded and knock-down assemblies. These configurations include pocket door frame systems, kerfed frames, double egress openings, borrowed lights, arched or radius shapes, and sidelite or transom window assemblies tailored to specific project architectural submittals and dimensional needs.

Standard frame manufacturing lead times range from five to seven business days. Expedited quick-ship programs are also available, offering turnaround schedules from same-day dispatch up to five business days depending on the specific profile complexity, steel gauge selection, and job-site delivery requirements.

Job-site sequencing often dictates frame selection. Welded frames are typically installed during wall framing or masonry rough-in before drywall is hung. In contrast, knock-down frames are frequently installed after drywall installation is complete, wrapping around finished stud walls to streamline field labor and prevent damage during rough construction phases.