Door Lifters

About Door Lifters

Door lifters are indispensable tools that transform the challenge of installing, adjusting or removing doors from an awkward two-person task into a manageable solo operation. These clever devices allow tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts to lift, position and hold doors at precisely the right height for fitting hinges, adjusting frames or trimming the bottom edge. Whether you're hanging heavy solid wood doors on a new build, replacing fire doors in commercial premises, or upgrading internal doors during a renovation, a quality door lifter takes the strain out of door installation work.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks door lifters in various configurations to suit different working environments and preferences. Foot-operated models keep both hands completely free for positioning and securing doors, whilst swivel door lifters provide enhanced manoeuvrability in confined spaces. Many designs also function as plasterboard lifters, offering excellent versatility for tradespeople working across multiple disciplines. Our range includes robust steel-constructed models from trusted brands such as Trend, Faithfull and Roughneck, all featuring protective padding to prevent surface damage and adjustable height mechanisms to accommodate standard and non-standard door sizes.

Applications

• Carpenters and joiners fitting doors on new builds, renovations and bespoke joinery projects
• Builders and general contractors working on residential and commercial construction sites
• Shopfitters installing doors in retail units and commercial premises
• Maintenance teams in facilities management replacing or adjusting doors in offices, schools and hospitals
• Door installation specialists focusing on door hanging and repair services
• Dry liners and plasterers using dual-purpose models for both doors and plasterboard sheets
• Property developers and landlords maintaining or upgrading rental properties
• Serious DIY enthusiasts undertaking home improvement projects involving multiple door installations

Choosing The Right Door Lifters

Load Capacity: Consider the heaviest doors you'll handle. Solid hardwood external doors and fire doors can weigh 40-50kg or more, so ensure your lifter has adequate capacity with a safety margin. For standard internal doors, a 30-40kg capacity typically suffices.

Operating Mechanism: Foot-operated models offer maximum convenience for solo working, keeping both hands free. Manual lever-operated designs are lighter and more portable but require one hand to operate. Consider your typical workflow and whether you work alone or with assistance.

Portability: If you move between sites frequently, look for lightweight designs that fold compactly for van storage. Workshop-based tradespeople may prefer more substantial models that prioritise stability over portability.

Multi-Purpose Functionality: Dual-purpose door and board lifters provide excellent value if you also work with plasterboard or sheet materials, reducing the specialist tools you need to carry. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks several versatile models suitable for mixed trades.

Build Quality: Professional use demands robust steel construction with reinforced joints and reliable mechanisms. Check for protective coatings against rust and corrosion, particularly important for site work in damp conditions.

Safety Information

Load Limits: Never exceed the manufacturer's stated maximum load capacity. Overloading can result in sudden failure, causing injury or door damage. Always weigh heavy doors if uncertain.

Stable Surface: Only use door lifters on firm, level ground. Uneven surfaces or soft flooring can cause tipping, particularly with heavy external doors. Clear debris before operating.

Foot Protection: Always wear steel toe-capped safety boots when operating door lifters. Even lightweight doors can cause serious foot injuries if they slip during handling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a door lifter for fire doors?
Yes, most quality door lifters can handle fire doors, but check the weight carefully as fire doors typically weigh 35-50kg due to their solid core construction. The Trend, Faithfull and Roughneck models available at MyToolShed.co.uk are suitable for standard fire door weights.

Do dual-purpose lifters work as well for both doors and plasterboard?
Absolutely. Dual-purpose lifters typically have load capacities of 40-68kg, suitable for both heavy doors and standard plasterboard sheets. A 2400mm x 1200mm x 12.5mm plasterboard sheet weighs approximately 20-25kg, well within their capacity.

Is a door lifter worth it for occasional DIY work?
For a single door replacement, you might manage with wedges and assistance. However, if you're hanging multiple doors or undertaking a larger renovation, a door lifter saves considerable time and effort, particularly when working alone or when precise height adjustments are needed for accurate fitting.