How to Install or Replace Door Hinges

Position the hinge correctly. Assuming you are installing a new door, you need to find the exact spot on the door frame to attach the hinge. Most doors require at least two hinges: one placed 20cm from the top edge of the frame and the other 30cm from the bottom edge. Measure this distance and mark it on the frame, then repeat the process on the door you are installing.

• If you are using a third hinge (common for heavier doors), it should be placed midway between the other two hinges (slightly offset from the center).

Mark around the hinge. Position the hinge correctly on the door and frame, then use a pencil to trace around it. The depth of the mortise on the door frame should always match the thickness of the hinge. Double-check to ensure the hinge outline aligns perfectly on both the door and frame before proceeding. Next, use a utility knife to score along the traced lines; this will make chiseling the mortise easier.

Chisel the mortise. The term ‘mortising’ refers to carving out a section of the door frame to match the hinge’s shape, ensuring the hinge fits snugly for both stability and aesthetics. To chisel the mortise, you’ll need a sharp chisel and a hammer. Hold the chisel at the correct angle with one hand while gently tapping it with the hammer to remove thin layers of wood. Avoid chiseling too deep, as this can cause the hinge to loosen over time. Stay within the marked outline and depth.

• Using a dull chisel makes the process harder and requires stronger hammer strikes (which can lead to slips).
• If you accidentally chisel too deep, you can insert a thin wood shim before installing the hinge.

Mark the screw positions. Place the hinge into the mortise you just created. Use a pencil to mark the screw holes on the door frame. Repeat the process for the hinge positions on the door. Remove the hinge once all markings are complete.

Drill pilot holes. Use a drill or screwdriver to create small pilot holes at the marked screw positions on the door frame. Drill gently into each hole to ensure the screws won’t slip while being driven. Pilot holes help guide the screws straight into the wood.

Install each hinge. Position the hinges correctly, then use a drill or screwdriver to secure each hinge to the door frame and door.

Attach the door to the frame. Lift the door into position, using shims under the door if necessary. Align the hinge plates on the door with those on the frame. Slide the hinge pins into place and remove the shims from under the door. Open and close the door to test!

Use shims to stabilize the door. Rotate the door so the hinges are exposed, and place shims underneath to keep the door steady. When replacing hinges, you don’t need to remove the door entirely. Position the shims to support the door and prevent it from tipping over.

Compare the hinges and measure the door. Ensure the new hinges match the old ones in both size and shape. Additionally, use a tape measure to verify the current hinge positions. One hinge should be 20cm from the top edge of the frame, and the other 30cm from the bottom edge. If their positions are incorrect, follow the steps above to mortise and install the new hinges.

Remove the old hinges. Start with the top hinge, unscrewing the bolts that hold the hinge leaf. Carefully pull the hinges away from the door and frame, checking the condition of the wood beneath. You may need to insert small wood shims into the old screw holes, especially if they are damaged or worn.

Prepare the door frame and door for installing new hinges. If the door has been in use for a considerable time, minor repairs may be needed on both the frame and the door itself. Sand down any rough areas if necessary, and apply a fresh coat of paint to match the existing wood tone.

Install the new hinge. Position the new hinge where the old one was located. Use a drill or screwdriver along with screws to attach both leaves of the hinge to the door frame and the door. Insert the hinge pin to secure the new hinge in place.

Repeat the process for the second hinge. Move on to the next hinge, using a drill or screwdriver to remove it. Replace the old hinge with a new one and new screws, ensuring it stays firmly in place. Insert the hinge pin once the new hinge is screwed in.

Test the new hinges. Remove any shims from under the door and repeatedly open and close it to check for smooth operation. If the door functions without issues, the task is complete!