Shimming A Door Hinge To Keep The Door Open

When shimming the door the goal is to make sure that once the frame is nailed the gap between the door and the frame is equal all around the door.

Shimming a door hinge to keep the door open.

Open the hinge side gap by spreading the hinges. Adjust the gap by bending the hinges. Common problems associated with door openings require shims to be installed in the correct place to solve the issue. Most pre hung doors come with a 1 8 inch gap between the door and the frame on the hinge side and the top.

This video will cover the basics of shim. Reinsert the pin tapping it gently into place from the top with your hammer. As you can see in the initial picture and video the latch was lower than the striker plate. If it is still swinging open on its own repeat this process with the bottom hinge.

Slide the shim behind the hinge that needs the extra spacing then drive the screws back in tightly and check the operation of the door. This job can be a hassle especially if you have painted trim. To readjust the door frame you have to remove the trim along the latch side to get at the shims. Shimming correctly can raise or lower the latch bolt to align with the striker plate.

If the door has three hinges remove the screws from the middle hinge as well. You can buy them at home centers or online for less than 15. Sometimes the gap is far too wide. The solution that worked for me was to shim between the door frame and door hinge.

Remove the screws from the hinge you need to shim using a screwdriver or a drill and screwdriver bit. Remove the shim and test the door. So try this trick first. Self centering bits come in sizes to fit cabinet and full size door hinges.

I ve seen shims used behind the hinge leaf to adjust the gap but bending the hinge takes less time.