Generally, place the top hinge 5 inches from the top of the door and the bottom hinge 10 inches from the bottom of the door. If the door frame already has mortises (recesses) for hinges, match that existing placement pattern on the door.
Detailed Hinge Placement Guidelines
Proper hinge placement is crucial for a smoothly operating and securely hung door. While the 5-inch and 10-inch rule is a good starting point, several factors can influence the ideal placement:
- Door Weight and Size: Heavier or taller doors may require a third hinge, placed equidistant between the top and bottom hinges, for added support.
- Door Frame Mortises: If you're replacing an existing door, the door frame will likely have mortises already cut. It's generally easiest to match these existing locations on the new door. Deviating from these placements will require filling the old mortises and cutting new ones.
- Door Material: Solid core doors or those made of denser materials will be heavier and might need closer hinge spacing or an additional hinge.
- Aesthetic Considerations: While functionality is paramount, consider the visual impact of hinge placement. Aim for symmetry and balance.
Steps for Proper Hinge Placement:
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Measure and Mark: Accurately measure and mark the hinge locations on both the door and the door frame. Remember to account for the door's swing direction.
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Mortise the Door and Frame: Carefully chisel out mortises (recesses) for the hinges on both the door and the frame. The mortise depth should match the thickness of the hinge leaf, so the hinge sits flush with the surface. Note: Power tools like routers can also be used for this step, but require skill and precision.
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Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes for the screws to prevent splitting the wood.
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Attach Hinges: Secure the hinges to both the door and the frame using appropriate screws.
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Test the Door Swing: After hanging the door, test its swing. If the door binds or doesn't close smoothly, adjust the hinge placement as needed.
Example Hinge Placement Scenarios:
| Scenario | Top Hinge Placement | Bottom Hinge Placement | Additional Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Interior Door | 5 inches from top | 10 inches from bottom | Match existing frame mortises if available. |
| Heavy Solid Core Door | 5 inches from top | 10 inches from bottom | Consider a third hinge in the middle. |
| Tall (Over 80") Interior Door | 5 inches from top | 10 inches from bottom | A third hinge is highly recommended to prevent warping. |
| Replacing Door with Existing Mortises | Match existing frame | Match existing frame | Ensure the new hinges match the size and screw hole pattern of the old hinges or adjust the mortise accordingly. |
