How to Hang a Door Correctly
Hanging a door is quite straightforward, but getting it wrong will cause a lot of problems when using the door forever after. Large gaps between the door and frame will allow drafts when shut, but a fit that’s too tight will prevent it from shutting at all or will cause it to stick when closed. And if it isn’t lined up properly, the door will not latch or lock properly, so it’s a job worth getting right the first time.
Bits you will need...
- Door
- Hand planer and chisel
- Sandpaper
- Tape measure
- Hinges
- Screws for the hinges
- Drill and drill bits to suit screws
- Pencil
- Wedges
Step 1
Before you start, measure the old door for a rough starting point on the correct size to cut the door to. Be sure not to reproduce any problems with the fit of the new door by copying a badly fitting previous door.
Step 2
Trim the new door to the appropriate size using the hand planer. The door needs to be 1/4 of an inch smaller than the door opening, and by doing it bit by bit, you are less likely to take too much off. Having to remove more to get a good fit is not a problem. Taking too much off is an expensive problem. Repeat this step until the door is exactly the right size.
Step 3
Sand the edges of the door until the wood is smooth to the touch and there are no splinters when you run your hand along the edges.
Step 4
Place the door against the opening to ensure that it fits properly, and if it doesn't, then repeat Step 2.
Step 5
Choose the direction you want the door to open and position your hinges on the door's edge. It’s easiest to keep the setting the same as the previous door unless you are going to remove the old stops on the door linings.
TIP – remember, the hinges should be on the opposite side of the frame to the light switch on your wall. For example, if the light switch is on the right-hand side of the frame, then the hinge needs to be on the left-hand side of the door.
Step 6
Holding the hinges in place on the door's edge, draw around them with the pencil. The hinges ideally will be placed 6 inches from the top and bottom of the door, and one in the centre if the door is especially heavy.
Step 7
Assuming you are going to be sinking the hinges into the frame and door, carefully use a chisel to chip away the wood inside where you marked the hinges. The hinge will need to sit flush with the door, so it does not obstruct the door when opening or closing. Sand the area after to remove splinters.
Step 8
Place the hinge back on the door. This time, the hinge should sit precisely inside the excavation where you cut away the wood. It should be flush against the end of the door. If it’s not, re-chisel and sand again until smooth. Be sure to take off small amounts and reassess the fit.
Step 9
When you are happy with the fit of the hinges on the door, drill small pilot holes for the screws and attach the hinge to the door with the screws.
Step 10
Position the door within the door frame so you can mark out where the hinges will go. Open the hinges and temporarily hold the door in the frame. A second person can be helpful here.
TIP – put a thin magazine, screwdriver, or folded newspaper under the door as a spacer to lift it up so it can swing freely without too big a gap.
Step 11
Trace around each hinge on the frame to mark where the hinge will need to be placed. When done, secure the door nearby to give you access to work on the frame.
Step 12
Cut away the wood inside where you marked the hinge. Do not cut too deep, as the hinge must sit flush. Take small amounts away at a time. Use a spare hinge (or one from the door) to keep checking the fit.
Step 13
When you are happy with the hinge fit, drill small pilot holes in the frame. With the hinges already on the door, hold the door in position and screw it to the frame.
Step 14
Open and close the door to ensure it swings freely and does not scrape the floor or carpet.
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