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How to Stop Hinge Movement

Hinges are used to support the weight of the door and to make the door swing open and closed easily. The use of properly-sized door hinges and the correct number of hinges is critical to help stop hinge movement. When the hinges are installed correctly this will additionally help stop hinge movement. Using the proper screws for hardwood or softwood will also reduce the amount of hinge movement. Typically, use fine-thread screws for hardwood and coarse-thread screws for softwood for the best holding strength.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Hammer
  • Chisel
  • Utility knife
  • Hinge-centering drill bit
  • Screws
  • Power screwdriver/drill
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select the proper hinge for the door. The doors weight, the number of hinges used, and the size of the hinges are critical to stop hinge movement. Check the hinge specification sheet for these factors.

    • 2

      Locate and mark the hinges on the door and the door jamb. Position the top hinge 5 inches down from the top of the door, the bottom hinge is located 10 inches from the bottom of the door. Center the middle hinge between the top and bottom hinge. Use a tape measure for this step.

    • 3

      Trace the outline of the hinge with a sharp pencil. Recess the hinges into the door jamb and the door. Use a hammer and chisel to remove wood to the depth of the hinge thickness. This provides a shoulder around three sides of the hinge to help stop hinge movement.

    • 4

      Install the screws in the hinges. Drill screw holes in the door and doorjamb using a hinge drill bit to center the screws. Use the appropriate-size drill bit for the screws you are using. This will help to hold the hinge steady and help to keep it from moving. A power screwdriver works best for this step.