How to Install a Door Hinge
After you’ve framed a door, the next step to complete the installation process is to put in the door hinges. Hinges allow your door to swing and open and close smoothly, so you should install this as properly as you can. Here’s how to do it.
What You’ll Need:
Door hinge
Chisel
Screws
Screwdriver
Mallet or hammer
Door
Level
Measuring tape
Pencil
Procedure:
Purchase the hinges. If you have a regular sized door, you can buy regular hinges, but if you have a bigger, heavier one, you might need larger hinges. Buy at least two or three.
door hinge
If you’re only replacing old hinges, you have to remove the door from its frame first. This can be easily done, though a hammer or mallet might be needed if there are huge pins that secure the door to the hinges. If you’re completely installing new hinges, skip this step.
Think about where you’re going to install the hinges. Doors can be opened going to the right or to the left, so decide which way is more convenient.
Using a pencil, mark the spots on the frame where you’re going to install the hinges. It’s all right if you decide on the measurements you’re going to use. Most hinges are situated five inches away from the door’s top and 10 inches from the bottom. Measure them with a measuring tape and mark properly.
You have to use the same measurements for your door. Use the measuring tape again and create the marks needed.
With the pencil, put the hinge against the door frame, and trace its outline. Make sure you provide clear delineations of the hinge’s height and width. Also, create marks where you’re planning to put the screws. The screws usually come with the hinges, so there’s no need to buy any.
Make a depression on the door frame. This is where you’re inserting the recessed hinge. Using a chisel and hammer, score the place within the hinge’s outline. Clear the wood splinters, just enough so the hinge will be positioned securely and flatly in the recession.
Screw the hinge into place using a screwdriver. Make sure you don’t over-screw, though. After you’ve done this properly, your hinge will be set in place, while still level with the frame or door.
To attach the recessed hinge to the door, repeat the last five steps. Some hinge kits don’t need both hinge haves to be recessed, though, so make sure you study the manual first. There might be specific instructions given.
Reinsert the hinge pin to connect the two hinge halves, securing the door to the frame properly. Attach the top hinge first, then the middle (if any) and finish with the bottom hinge.
For a door to be fully-functional, it must have hinges that are installed properly. Make sure the hinges are level, though, otherwise you’ll have a crooked door.