How to Fit a Door Hinge
Whether you’re installing a new door, looking for a refresh or replacing a broken hinge, fitting door hinges is a relatively simple task.
Door hinges are simply composed of two metal plates, known as leaves, that are usually connected by a pin or rod around which the leaves rotate. Door hinges must be fitted properly to allow a door to open and close properly.
To fit a door hinge, you will need:
- Hinges (three per standard door)
- Screwdriver or drill
- Screws
- Chisel
- Pencil
- Tape measure
- Square
- Hinge template
Step 1 - Choosing Your Hinges
Before getting started, make sure you know what type and size of hinge is most appropriate for your door. The standard hinge size in the UK is 3.5 inches, and the average interior door will require three hinges. If you’re replacing hinges, you can simply measure the existing ones and replace them with like-for-like new hinges.
Step 2 - Marking
If you’re replacing hinges with like-for-like replacements, you can skip this step as the positioning and screw holes will already exist.
If you’re changing style or installing hinges for the first time, however, you’ll need to measure the optimum placement for your door hinges and mark this accordingly, both on the frame and the door itself. Usually, hinges are placed between five to seven inches from the top of the door, and three inches from the bottom. If you need a third hinge, it will be in the middle.
Step 3 - Prepare the Mortise
Again, if you’re replacing existing hinges, you might be able to skip this step.
If not, trace the outline of the hinge on the surface at the locations you’ve just marked. Using a sharp chisel, score around the outline before carefully removing the wood within the scored area. Work slowly, it’s better to take longer and get it right first time rather than make a mistake that you need to fix later.
Place the hinge in the mortise to check the depth. The leaf should sit flush with the surface. If it sits above the surface of the door, carefully chisel out another small layer until the hinge sits properly.
Step 4 - Installing the Hinges
Hold the hinge against the mortise in the door frame, and align the screws. Insert the screws and tighten them using a screwdriver. Be careful not to over tighten them, as this can cause the wood to split apart. Repeat the process with all hinges on the door frame.
With the door in place, align the hinges on the door with those on the frame. Make sure that the pins are inserted in the hinges and the positioning is accurate. Insert the screws into the holes on the door, and tighten them.
Step 5 - Mounting the Door
With the hinges attached, position the door in the doorway. Make sure the door is level using a carpenter’s square or a plumb line. Once you’re satisfied with the fit, screw the hinges into the door frame.
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