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.

This video will cover the basics of shim. Self centering bits come in sizes to fit cabinet and full size door hinges. 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.

Open the hinge side gap by spreading the hinges. 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. Sometimes the gap is far too wide.

As you can see in the initial picture and video the latch was lower than the striker plate. Remove the shim and test the door. Open and close your door then let it hang freely to test whether the door is now level enough to work properly. Reinsert the pin tapping it gently into place from the top with your hammer.

Adjust the gap by bending the hinges. 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. The solution that worked for me was to shim between the door frame and door hinge.

To readjust the door frame you have to remove the trim along the latch side to get at the shims. Slip a 1 16 in thick cardboard shim strip behind each hinge photos with steps 1 and 2 below. If it is still swinging open on its own repeat this process with the bottom hinge. Common problems associated with door openings require shims to be installed in the correct place to solve the issue.

If the problem persists repeat the process to add a second shim to the hinge.