How to Fix a Loose Door Hinge
Most homeowners can repair hinges that are loose. However, if the screw holes are damaged and aren't able to hold screws, you might have to add wood glue and dowels before you can install the hinge.
Before you do this, however scrub away any surface rust. This will help to keep the dowels in place and give them an adequate base for them to grip onto.
Removal of the Hinges
A variety of door hinges can be removed, making it easier to move a door from one side of the frame to the other or take the entire door off when needed. It is easy for anyone with a little patience, though you do need to know how do it correctly.
If upvc window replacement hinges are painted, you will need to remove the paint before attempting to remove the pins. If you don't, the paint could flake off and scratch your door when you attempt to lift it. To break the seal, place the hinges in a stainless steel pan and fill the pan with water until the hinges are fully submerged. Let the hinges sit in the pan for 30 minutes. The heat from the water should soften the paint and make it easier to take off the pins.
Once the pins are removed, take the hinges and frame from the door. It is possible to use a regular screwdriver, however a magnetic screwdriver is recommended for this task. This type of screwdriver is specifically designed to take out screws made of metal and will assist you in getting the task accomplished much faster.
It is a good practice to spray lubricant onto the hinges prior to attempting to remove them. A simple lubricant can help the process move along quickly and aid in the removal of the pins and screws. This type of lubricant can be found at most hardware stores and home improvement stores.
The number of hinges needed will also depend on what type of door you have and how it is set up. Heavy doors and solid-core doors will require more hinges while hollow-core doors with a lighter weight might only require two or three hinges.
It is also important to understand the different types of hinges so you can decide which one will work best in your situation. The hinges on the exterior are designed to support the weight of a door, while interior hinges need to be able support lighter loads.
Reattaching the Hinges
Over time, the hinges of doors may loosen and begin to hang crooked or sag. This can be a major problem, but the fix is usually quite simple. A simple retightening will usually resolve the issue. If the screw holes have been ripped out, it could be difficult to do. A wood dowel can be used to tighten the holes again.
Begin by drilling the old hole with a drill bit close to the new screw size (normally 3/8"). Then, use wood glue and a wooden dowel to fill in the hole. To ensure a secure fit, the dowel should be cut to the same length as the screw. Install the screw again, and tighten to desired degree of tightness. If the door does not stop bind up, insert a second dowel to the gap. Repeat the procedure. Close the door slowly after each adjustment to make sure that the perimeter clearances are correct.
You could also use a wood plug instead of the dowel. This will work just as well but might take a bit longer to put in. You can insert a piece of wood which has been cut to the right size. If you don't have a woodworking instrument or toothpicks, you can make use of toothpicks or matchsticks made from wood.
After you've reinstalled your new screw then use a countersink to make the hole for the screw's head smaller so that it does not touch the edge of the door when it's opened and closed. This will aid in tightening the screw after reinstalling the hinge.
Once you have reinstalled the hinge, be sure to grease it with a dry lubricant to help keep it from getting stuck in the future. Products such as PB Blaster or Liquid Wrench are excellent alternatives. You should apply a thin coat and wait for approximately 15 minutes to penetrate the hinge barrel.
Refinishing the Hinges
If you're not sure if you're ready to replace the hinges on your door, you can make a few repairs. Check that the screws that secure the hinge plate to the door frame and the frame are in good condition. If they're loose, tighten them using the help of a screwdriver or a power drill. Be careful not to over tighten the screws, because this could cause gaps to form at the trim joints, or more seriously, tear out the threads.
If the problem is the hinge plates are breaking, you can reattach the plates by putting wood glue on the back of them and inserting toothpicks or wooden dowels into the holes. The toothpicks or dowels will serve as a solid base for the screws and help keep the plates from moving when you drive them into the holes. Allow the glue to dry before reattaching your hinge.
Another reason that causes hinges that are loose is that the screws are stripped or gone. This can be fixed by replacing the screws with longer ones. Be sure to use a drill bit that is compatible with the size of the screw hole to avoid drilling into other parts of the jamb or hinge.
After you've reattached your hinge close the door and examine the gap between the door and the frame. The gap should be the thickness of a penny all around or less if an older door was not properly hung. This shouldn't be a problem as long as the hinges are properly installed.
If the hinges are still loose, try adding an extra thick hinge between the hinge plate's surface and the mounting surface. This will allow the hinges more space. You can also remove the hinge pin and then pound it down with a heavy hammer to tighten it or use an entirely new hinge. It is also possible to lubricate the hinges with mineral or jojoba oil to reduce friction and aid in holding their place. Periodically lubricating your hinges can aid in keeping them from becoming stiff or squeaky, and can also extend their life.
Cleaning the Hinges
A hinge's continuous movement creates friction, which draws dust particles. These particles can get stuck and build up in the moving parts of door hinges if they are not maintained and cleaned regularly. The hinge will get stiff and creaky, and its appearance could rapidly diminish. Regular cleaning, lubrication and inspections will ensure the quality and function of hinges on a door.
Examine the hinges for corrosion. If the rust is so bad that it has damaged the surface of the screw holes or the barrel of the hinge, you'll have to replace the hinges. If you're able to save the hinges, you can remove any loose rust using steel wool and wire brush. Then apply a rust remover from a commercial store or homemade solution like lemon juice on the hinge. Let the rust-removing solution be on the hinges for a few minutes in order to penetrate and dissolve any remaining rust.
Retightening screws can restore hinge function if you don't want to spend time or money on replacing hinges. If you've stripped the screws' holes however, it might be necessary to add a wooden dowel or shim to the hinge. Wooden dowels come in round rods of various sizes and lengths. They can be purchased online, at woodworking supply shops and at home improvement stores.
A shim may also be made from a piece of plastic or metal, based on the kind of hinge you have. To make a dowel, cut a piece made of wooden dowel or any other durable material to the size you want. You can dip the dowel into the adhesive of a carpenter and insert it in the hole. The glue will hold the dowel firmly in the position.
Before cleaning the hinges, put down a paper cloth or towel to protect your flooring from spills. Once the area is protected then clean the hinges using a soft sponge or cloth coated with a mild cleaner or vinegar to eliminate dirt, grime, and tarnish. A small brush or toothbrush can be used to reach difficult-to-reach spots in crevices or tight areas.