Beyond Bending Tell You How
If you have a door in your home or office that is sagging, the problem may be with the hinge mounting. Hinges play a crucial role in the smooth functioning of doors, and any issue with them can be a major inconvenience. One way to fix the problem is by using a hinge mounting repair plate. In this article, we will discuss what hinge mounting repair plates are, how they work, and how you can install them yourself.
What is a Hinge Mounting Repair Plate?
A hinge mounting repair plate is a metal plate that is attached to the door frame or jamb to reinforce the hinge mounting area. It is used when the screw holes in the frame or jamb have become stripped or enlarged, making it difficult for the hinge screws to stay in place. The repair plate acts as a stabilizer, providing a solid base for the screws to hold onto.
How Does a Hinge Mounting Repair Plate Work?
The hinge mounting repair plate is designed to be installed over the existing screw holes in the frame or jamb. The plate has pre-drilled holes that match the spacing of the hinge screws. By attaching the plate to the frame or jamb with screws, the hinge mounting area is reinforced, and the screws have a solid base to hold onto. The hinge can then be reattached to the plate using the original screws.
When Should You Use a Hinge Mounting Repair Plate?
You should use a hinge mounting repair plate when the screw holes in the frame or jamb are stripped or enlarged, and the hinge screws are no longer holding securely. This can happen over time due to wear and tear or if the door has been repeatedly slammed. If the hinge screws are loose, the door may sag or not close properly.
How to Install a Hinge Mounting Repair Plate
Installing a hinge mounting repair plate is a straightforward process that can be done by anyone with basic DIY skills. Here’s how:
Step 1: Gather the Materials
You will need the following materials:
- Hinge mounting repair plate
- Screws (included with the repair plate)
- Power drill
- Drill bit
- Screwdriver
Step 2: Remove the Hinge
Using a screwdriver, remove the hinge from the door frame or jamb. Keep the screws in a safe place, as you will be reusing them later.
Step 3: Position the Repair Plate
Hold the hinge mounting repair plate over the existing screw holes in the frame or jamb. Make sure the pre-drilled holes in the plate align with the holes in the frame or jamb. The plate should cover the damaged area completely.
Step 4: Drill Pilot Holes
Using a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screws provided with the repair plate, drill pilot holes through the pre-drilled holes in the plate and into the frame or jamb. This will make it easier to screw in the screws later.
Step 5: Attach the Repair Plate
Using the screws provided with the repair plate, attach the plate to the frame or jamb using a power drill. Make sure the screws are flush with the surface of the plate.
Step 6: Reattach the Hinge
Using the original screws, reattach the hinge to the repair plate. Tighten the screws securely, but be careful not to over-tighten them, as this can damage the repair plate or the frame or jamb.
Step 7: Test the Door
Close the door and test it to make sure it opens and closes smoothly. If the door is still sagging or not closing properly, you may need to adjust the hinge or add additional repair plates.
Conclusion
A hinge mounting repair plate is an effective and affordable solution to fix a sagging door caused by damaged screw holes in the frame or jamb. With the right tools and some basic DIY skills, you can easily install a repair plate yourself and save money on professional repairs. Remember to choose a high-quality repair plate that matches the size and spacing of your hinge screws, and follow the installation instructions carefully to ensure a secure and long-lasting repair.
