How to Realign a Strike Plate on a Hinge

As doors age, they will begin to fall off their hinges. This isn't always a problem with the door, as sometimes the door can malfunction because the strike plate is out of alignment. To fix a strike plate, follow these easy steps.

Instructions

1. Unscrew and remove the strike plate. Unscrew the top screw first, holding the screwplate. Then remove the bottom screw.

2. Trim the hole in the jamb so that the hardware can easily enter the jamb hole. Use a knife or sandpaper to get the hole down to the right size. Patch up any holes that might have occurred in the door, and fill any unneeded holes with hole patches. Be careful to make sure you patch the holes properly. You may have to use some sandpaper to sand down the patches so the strike plate fits firmly.

3. Hold the strike plate over the jamb hole, and close the door to make sure that your strike plate will be realigned properly. If it is still out of alignment, adjust the hole as needed.

4. Hold the strike plate in place and insert the bolt to confirm that the bolt will pass through the strike plate and fit in the jamb hole. Again, adjust as needed.

5. Open the door and reinstall the screws to hold the strike plate in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time and line everything up correctly as hasty work will only end in having to repeat the process as the door will continue to come out of alignment in the future.