How to Hang a Bathroom Stall Door

Bathroom stall doors can sometimes be tricky installation projects. Because they are generally used commercially in public bathrooms, they are built for frequent use and abuse. Similar to a regular, full bathroom door, with the bottom third cut off, they are, for some, difficult to handle and align properly. Their double tier hinge setup can add to the aggravation if you are not familiar with them. Following some installation steps can make working with them easier.

Things You'll Need

• Drill
• 1/4-inch drill bit
• Pilaster with 2-tier hinge system
• Four through bolts
• Four barrel nuts
• Door-assembly nylon bushing
• 1-inch cap bolts, 3/8
• Wrench
• Hammer
• 2 hinge pins
• 1 door knob

Instructions

1. Use a quarter-inch drill bit and drill the top hole for the top hinge at 13¼ inches from the top of the pilaster. (The pilaster is the rectangular column, that sticks out from the wall by about a third of its width, that the door will be attached to.) Carefully measure down 1½ inches from the top hole you just drilled. Align the drill exactly under the top hole. Make sure they are aligned to match the holes in the hinge and drill the bottom hole for the top hinge.

2. Measure down 68 inches from the top of the pilaster and drill the top hole for the bottom hinge just like Step 1. Attach and secure the upper pilaster hinges with two through bolts and round-top/barrel nuts. Insert the bushing into the bottom of the top hinge.

3. Install the through bolts to hold the lower pilaster hinges just like you did in Step 2, for the top hinge. Lift the door into place against the bottom hinge. Look to see that the door is in proper alignment with the hinges.

4. Press down slightly to make sure the hinges are properly aligned to match the door. Align the upper pin holes with the top hinge holes. Insert the hinge pin. Tap it lightly with your hammer to get it in completely.

5. Fasten the bottom hinges with the three-eighths-by-1-inch cap bolts. Adjust the door while opening it at different angles. Make sure the door stays smooth and does not wobble at different angles. Use a wrench to tighten the bolts and door into place.

6. Mount the door knob onto the door. Depress the inner portion of the latch. Line up the latch tooth with the inner escutcheon plate. Squeeze the latch and plate together while pushing in the knob. Insert the knob screws.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the pilaster hinge system before beginning to install it to make sure the parts are all there.

• Use care not to scratch the door while installing it.

References

• Bradley: Restroom Partitions & ADA Compliance
• Orange County Register: Woman Sues Over 'Hazardous' Restroom Stall

Resources

• American Restroom Association: Public Restroom Design Issues