How to Fix a Recessed Hinge

Open the door and examine the screws securing the hinge to the edge of the door and the door jamb. Over time, these screws work loose. Replace missing screws with 2-inch wood screws and a Phillips screwdriver. Tighten any loose screws.

Remove the screws from a hinge when the screws will not tighten. Screws that do not tighten are a result of the hole in the wood being too large.

Drill the mounting holes with a drill bit that is the same size diameter as the screw. Apply wood glue to the holes and stuff wooden toothpicks into the holes.

Allow the glue to dry completely. Cut the toothpicks flush to the wood surface with a utility knife. Align the hinge over the mounting holes and drive new securing screws through the hinge and into the mounting holes.

Remove a hinge if the hinge leaf is below the wood surface of the door or jamb. Trace the hinge leaf on a piece of thin cardboard, like a cereal box, and cut the cardboard to the tracing with scissors. Reattach the hinge with the cardboard between the wood and the hinge. The cardboard raises the hinge flush with the wood surface. If necessary, use several pieces of cardboard until the hinge leaf is flush with the wood.