Make sure you use a screwdriver that properly fits into the screws. If you use one that’s too large, you could strip the screw and make it more difficult to use. You can check for loose hinges and screws by opening the door halfway and pulling the handle straight up. That way, you can see which hinges move around. If the screws don’t stay tightened because the holes are stripped, keep reading on for a simple fix.
The longer screw will pull the door jamb back against the frame so your door doesn’t rub against it. You can also remove all 3 screws before inserting the 3 in (7. 6 cm) screw. [5] X Expert Source Ryaan TuttleHome Improvement Specialist Expert Interview. 14 May 2021.
The bottom hinge usually stays straighter since it’s not supporting the weight of the door as much. If your hinge is extremely deformed or broken, then you’ll have to replace it entirely.
If you’ve already tried tightening your hinges and they’re still loose, this fix will give the screws a firmer grip.
When it scrapes the bottom corner on the latch side, then shim the top hinge. If your door scrapes the top corner, add a shim behind the bottom hinge. If your door still rubs, you can add another 1⁄8 in (0. 32 cm) shim under the hinge, but don’t let the front of your hinge extend past the mortise. Otherwise, your door will get looser over time.
Your door jamb should always have about 1⁄8 inch (0. 32 cm) of space on each side. If you have trouble finding where the door rubs against the frame, take a piece of cardboard that’s about 1⁄8 inch (0. 32 cm) thick, and slide it in the crack between the door and the frame. Make your marks where the cardboard gets stuck.
It doesn’t matter which hinge pin you remove first.
If your door rubs against the top or bottom, you don’t need to take out any of the hardware. Store the hinges and screws in a cup or plastic bag so you don’t misplace any of the pieces.
If you apply a lot of pressure to the planer, you could gouge deeper into the wood and damage your door. Hollow-core doors have about 1 inch (2. 5 cm) of solid wood at the top and bottom that you can trim. [13] X Research source
If your door still rubs the frame, make note of where it still scrapes and take it down again. Use your planer to smooth out any edges that are still raised.
If you cut the top or bottom of the door, you should still refinish the edge even when you can’t see it. Otherwise, moisture could get into the door and cause it to swell again.
