Shimming A Door Hinge To Keep The Door Open

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.

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. Open and close your door then let it hang freely to test whether the door is now level enough to work properly. To readjust the door frame you have to remove the trim along the latch side to get at the shims. Adjust the gap by bending the hinges.

If it is still swinging open on its own repeat this process with the bottom hinge. Slip a 1 16 in thick cardboard shim strip behind each hinge photos with steps 1 and 2 below. Most pre hung doors come with a 1 8 inch gap between the door and the frame on the hinge side and the top. As you can see in the initial picture and video the latch was lower than the striker plate.

So try this trick first. I ve seen shims used behind the hinge leaf to adjust the gap but bending the hinge takes less time. If the problem persists repeat the process to add a second shim to the hinge. Remove the shim and test the door.

Shimming correctly can raise or lower the latch bolt to align with the striker plate. The solution that worked for me was to shim between the door frame and door hinge. If the door has three hinges remove the screws from the middle hinge as well. This video will cover the basics of shim.

Open the hinge side gap by spreading the hinges. Sometimes the gap is far too wide. This job can be a hassle especially if you have painted trim. Remove the screws from the hinge you need to shim using a screwdriver or a drill and screwdriver bit.

Reinsert the pin tapping it gently into place from the top with your hammer.