How to Fix a Loose Door Hinge
Most homeowners can repair hinges that are loose. But, if the holes for screws are smashed and aren't able to hold screws, you may need to use wood glue and dowels before you can reinstall the hinge.
Before you do that though you should clean off any surface corrosion. This will allow the dowels to remain in place and provide them a solid base to grip into.
Take off the Hinges
A lot of door hinges are removable, which makes it easier to move the door from one side to the next or take the entire door off the frame if need be. Anyone with a little patience can take the hinges off, however, you must know what to do.
If the hinges are painted, you'll need to take off the paint before attempting to remove the pins. If you don't, the paint could be smashed off and scratch the door when you attempt to lift it. To break the paint seal, place the hinges in an stainless steel pan and fill the pan with water until the hinges are completely submerged. Allow the hinges to sit in the pan for about 30 minutes. The heat of the water will soften the paint making it easier to remove.
After the pins are loosening and the pins are loose, you can take off the hinges from the frame and door. You can use a screwdriver to get the job done, but it is recommended that you make use of a magnetic screwdriver for this project. This type of screwdriver is designed to remove screws made of steel and will make the project speed up.
It is a good idea to spray some lubricant on the hinges prior to trying to remove them. A simple lubricant will help the process go by more quickly and help you remove the pins and screws. This type of lubricant can be found in a variety of hardware stores and home improvement stores.
The number of hinges you need will also vary depending on the kind of door you have and how it's set up. Doors with a heavier core and solid-core will need more hinges, while lighter-weight and hollow-core doors might only require two or three.
It is also crucial to understand the different types of hinges to determine which ones best suit your needs. Exterior hinges are typically designed to support the weight of the door, while interior hinges will have to be able to handle lighter loads.
Reattaching the Hinges
Over time, a door hinge can become loose and start to sag or hang crookedly. This can be a major issue, but the solution is usually easy. In most cases an easy tightening of the screw will solve the problem. However in the event that the screw holes are ripped out, it can be more difficult. A wood dowel could be used to tighten these holes once more.
Start by drilling out the hole you had previously made using a drill bit that is similar to the size of the new screw (typically 3/8"). Fill in the hole with wood glue and a wooden stick. To ensure a snug fit, the dowel should be cut at the same length as the screw. Then, reinstall the screw and tighten it until the desired tightness. If the door still has the tendency to be bowed and close, then you can add another dowel to the gap and repeat the process. Make sure to close the door slowly to check the perimeter clearances after each adjustment.
You could also use a wood plug instead of the dowel. This will work as well however it may take some time to put in. You can insert the wood piece that has been whittled down to the proper size. If you don't have a wooden tool you could also make use of toothpicks or wooden matches.
Once you have reinstalled the new screw then use a countersink to make the hole for the screw's head smaller so that it won't touch the edge of the door when it's open and closed. This will make it easier to tighten the screws after reinstalling hinges.
After installing the hinge again, you should lubricate the hinge with an oil-based lubricant that is dry. This will prevent it from getting stuck in the future. You can use products like PB Blaster and Liquid Wrench. Apply a thin layer of it and allow it to penetrate the hinge barrel for around 15 minutes.
Refinishing how to replace window hinges
If you're unsure whether to replace your hinges, you can try a few easy fixes. The first step is to make sure whether the screws that secure the hinge plate to the frame and door are tight. If they're loose, tighten the screws by using a drill or screwdriver. Be careful not to tighten the screws to the point that they begin to cause gaps at the trim joints or, even more damagingly, strip the threads.
If the issue is that the hinge plates are breaking away from the door and jamb, you can reattach them by applying wood glue to the back of the plates, and then inserting wooden dowels or toothpicks into the holes. Dowels and toothpicks provide an solid foundation for the screws, and prevent the plates from moving as you push them in. Let the glue dry before attaching the hinge.
Another common cause of loose hinges is that screws are worn out or missing. You can fix this problem by replacing the screws with larger ones. Use a drill that is similar to the size of the screw hole to prevent drilling into the hinge or jamb.
Close the door once you've reattached the hinge and measure the gap between the frame and the door. The gap should be about the thickness of a penny all around or less if an old door was hung incorrectly. This should not be a problem if the hinges are installed correctly.
If the hinges are still loose, you could add a stronger hinge between the hinge plate's surface and the mounting surface. This will give the hinges more room. You can also try removing the hinge pin from the troublesome hinge and pounding it down using a hammer to make it tighter or using the hinge pin from a different angle altogether. You can also lubricate your hinges using mineral or jojoba oil to decrease friction and help them hold their place. Regularly lubricating your hinges will help keep them from becoming stiff or squeaky and will also prolong their lifespan.
Cleaning the Hinges
The friction caused by the constant movement of a hinge draws dust particles. Without periodic cleaning and lubrication, the particles become stuck in the moving parts of a hinge for doors and then build up over time. As a result, the hinge becomes stiff and creaky, and its appearance can be damaged quickly. Regular cleaning, lubrication and inspections can maintain the quality of hinged door and ensure their proper function.
Examine the hinges to determine how much rust has formed on their surface. If the rust is so severe that it has damaged the surface of the screw holes or the barrel of the hinge, you'll have to replace them. If you can save the hinges, begin by brushing away loose rust using steel wool and wire brushes. Then apply a rust remover from a commercial store or a homemade solution such as lemon juice on the hinge. Allow the rust remover to be on the hinge for several minutes to penetrate and dissolve any remaining corrosion.
Retightening screws can restore hinge function if you don't want to spend money or time on repairing hinges. It may be necessary, however, to add an shim of wood or a dowel to the hinge in the event that the screws have been stripped. Dowels made of wood are available in round rods of varying lengths and sizes. They can be purchased online, in woodworking supply stores and at home improvement stores.
A shim could be made of metal or plastic, depending on the kind of hinge you've got. To make a dowel, you need to cut an unfinished dowel into the desired length. You can then dip a dowel into carpenter's adhesive and place it in the hole. The glue will hold the dowel securely in the position.
Before you begin cleaning the hinges, lay down a paper or cloth towel to shield floors and other surfaces from accidental spills and drips. After the area has been secured, proceed to clean the hinges using a soft cloth or sponge dipped in a mild cleaner or vinegar to remove built-up dirt, grime and tarnish. You can use a toothbrush or small brush to reach difficult-to-reach places in crevices and tight areas.