Doors that have been installed for a long time can suffer from rust, corrosion or wear and tear. Eventually, even the slightest weight can rip them clean off their hinges. A child trying to hang from the handle while playing or someone leaning against the door with all their weight can result in the hinges snapping out. So what do you do in a situation like this?
Normally, the process of how to fix door hinge holes will require professional help. However, if you have experience working with wood, you can get it done on your own.
Materials You’ll Need
When working towards how to fix door hinge holes, it is important to note that the old hinges can leave gaping holes where previous screws were installed. The process is relatively simpler for those who have experience in these tasks. The materials you’ll need include the following:
- A drill
- Wooden dowels
- Saw
- Glue and shop brush
- Screw drivers
It is handy to keep your tool box around before you begin the process as the need for it may arise for other projects. These are the materials needed to fix door hinge holes efficiently.
The Process
Step 1: Drill Out the Existing Holes
Start by drilling out the old holes with a 3/8” drill bit. You might have to use a larger or smaller head depending on the size of screws that were installed. 3/8’ is generally the standard screw size for commonly used hinge screws. The drilling process will create space for the dowels to fit and give the new screws a solid anchoring point.
The depth of the hole should be an essential consideration too. Measure your dowels and drill accordingly. The inner end of the dowel must sit flush with the inside of the frame at all costs.
Step 2: Ensure That Your Dowels Are the Appropriate Size
Next, dry fit the dowels to make sure that their size is appropriate. In case they are bigger or smaller, you can shave them or add some more pieces to find the right fit. The dowel has to be a perfect fit for the process of how to fix door hinge holes to go properly. In the absence of correct sizes on the dowels, the door frame won’t be seamless enough to hold the new screws properly.
Step 3: Apply Glue
Once you’ve ensured that the dowels fit, add glue to them and fill the holes. Use the shop brush to go evenly around the wood pieces. Add some extra glue inside the holes on the door frame to provide additional support. Make sure you have high-quality wood glue that can provide strength for a long time to come.
Step 4: Fix the Dowels in Place
Once the gluing is done, simply place the dowels inside the holes. Use a hammer to drive them into place. This is the point where your depth measurement serves a critical role. If the holes are the right length, the whole dowel will fit flush into it. However, there is no harm in some of it sticking out because you can saw that piece to create a smooth finish.
Once the dowels are fitted, the waiting process begins. This is the only time-consuming part of how to fix door hinge holes. Depending on the glue you are using, it can take as much as 24 hours to cure. All you can do during this time is wait.
Step 5: Pick Your New Hinges and Mark the Pilot Holes
Since the door is already out, you have a chance to go hinge shopping or order some online to let them arrive while the glue sets. Hinge Outlet offers an extensive range of door hinges to choose from. With a variety of styles and finishes like this Residential Penrod Butt Hinge in Dark Bronze can add a modern touch to your home.
You can also use the old hinge if the condition is such but experts recommend replacing hinges while you have the chance. Once the glue has dried, mark the new pilot holes for your hinges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to fix worn screw holes?
The process mentioned above can be replicated identically for worn screw holes. Filling the gap with dowels is an appropriate method for fixing any hole in a wooden frame or wall that you wish to reuse particularly for attaching a screw or nail. If you are working on how to fix door hinge holes you’ll need to know these basics beforehand.
How to rethread screw holes?
Wooden dowels can work best in this case too as they create a solid portion where new threads can be made. However, most hardware stores carry rethreading taps as well which work more efficiently in anchoring screws to the wall. Rethreading is crucial because it ensures that screws have better grip for anything that they are going to hold.
Can I glue door hinges?
Glue alone doesn’t provide the strength needed. Doors, even in homes, need to support certain amounts of weight. Only glue won’t be able to provide that capability. Applying glue in addition to screws can work but it is not recommended to work with glue on its own. Moreover, you need industrial or wood glue to give added holding power to the hinges or else there is a risk of the door dislodging from its position easily.
Can I use extra long hinge screws instead?
We always recommend purchasing extra long hinge screws when replacing your existing hinges. This will insure that the hinge is properly affixed to the door jam and help with aligning the door properly.
In Conclusion
The process of how to fix door hinge screw holes can be a simple process for those who have experience of wood working. It requires a certain precision or else things tend to go wrong. Slanted screws, broken dowels and uneven holes are just some of the issues that can arise during the process. In case you are not sure, it is always beneficial to contact an expert.
If you are looking to buy new hinges while repairing a stripped-out door, make sure to browse through the Hinge Outlet catalog for an elaborate selection.