How do I fix this solid wood bedroom door and frame?

Question

I think* I bought all the stuff I need to fix it, I just don’t know how.

Sorry I wasn’t more specific the first time, but I’m confused about how to fill in the missing wood with the wood filler compound without filling in the hole/s for the knob & latch.

Is there a right way to block those holes off? Or will I have to drill them back in?

*this based on some YouTube videos I watched. I have all the tools, sanders, etc. I’ve always been able to figure out how to fix things myself but I’m nervous about this one.

I cannot afford to not do it on my own (I live in a city where you can’t even buy a “cheap” bar of soap for less than $4, and you have to wait for someone to come unlock the shelf case just to buy it)

I’ve been renting this apartment for over 10 years, the building is over 100 years old and that bedroom door is original. I don’t think I can get away with replacing the whole door.

Answer 1

You can use wood filler or even better, Bondo, but beware that this will be a difficult job. To avoid filling the holes, you can use something, to block the filler, for example, a toilet paper cardboard center, etc.. The problem with filling this is that this is a stress area for the door (that's how it broke in the first place, no?), so the filler might come off after a few days.

If I were fixing this in my own home, I'd cut out that area from the door, then use a piece of hardwood to replace the area cut off, then use Bondo to fill the seams. Then sand and paint. Then maybe add a metal plate, drilled to the solid parts of the door. How much DIY this solution is will depend on your skills.