How to Replace or Repair Loose Door Hinges

If your door won't shut without you lifting it, or if it's hanging at a angle, you may need to replace or repair the hinges. Follow these steps to get the job done.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• New hinge
• Wooden dowel or wooden golf tee
• Household glue
• Drill and bit
• Starter nail
• Hammer

Replacing Hinges

1. Remove the screws securing the hinge to the door. Do one at a time so you don't have to remove the door. Make a note on which side of the hinge faced outward.

2. Measure the opening where the hinge previously was. Purchase new hinges the same size.

3. If the new hinge has holes that line up with the previous openings, insert screws on both sides and tighten. You're done. If the hinge does not line up, go to Step 4.

4. Dip a wooden dowel or a wooden golf tee the same size as the hole into household glue. Insert the dowels or tees into the holes, making certain they snugly fit. Allow them to dry overnight.

5. Cut the wood at the base, flush with the doorway or door. Sand until smooth.

6. Place the hinge on the opening one side at a time. Mark where the new screws will be placed with a pencil. Tap a nail in slightly and remove to create a starter for the screws. Drill a hole half the diameter of the new screws. Do this for every spot where a screw will be placed.

7. Attach the new hinge to the doorway. Begin any others that need replacement.

Repairing Loose Hinges

8. Remove the hinge that is loose and not completely attached to the door.

9. Check that the hinge is in good condition and the attachment is all that needs to be repaired. You may need to replace the hinge if it is bent or broken.

10. Use a wooden dowel the size of the hole or a wooden golf tee, fill the screw hole with household glue. Push the dowel or tee in until tight.

11. Allow to dry overnight, and then cut off flush with surface. Sand until smooth.

12. Using the existing hinge as a template, mark the holes where the screws will be placed. At each mark, slightly tap in a nail that is smaller than the screws as a starter for your screws. Drill starter holes half the size of the diameter of the screw.

13. Place the hinge on the way you originally found it and screw it down.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase a new hinge of the same size and shape. Make certain the thickness is the same or it will require more work. Take the hinge with you to the store.
• You may also use wood filler instead of a dowel. Follow the directions on the container. Fill the hole with the filler. Scrape off excess until flush with the surface. Sand when dry.
• A couple of toothpicks held together can substitute for the tee or dowel.