Is the door sagging?

Uneven clearances frequently result from improper installation of frames and frame anchors. The condition, characterized by lock edge clearances narrow at the top and wide at the bottom, is called “door sag”. The following suggested adjustments may correct the condition.

Are hinges loose?

If hinge screw does not remain tight, the screw can be held in place by the use of a Loctite-type product which prevents the screw from loosening. Additionally, “Nyloc” type fasteners can be used to replace the normal machine screws.

Are hinges worn?

If excessive wear has occurred on hinge knuckles, the door will not be held tightly. Replace hinges.

Are hinges properly swaged?

The hinge manufacturer’s specifications should be checked to determine what the proper hinge swage should be. Swaging is a slight offset of the hinge leaf at the barrel which permits the leaves to come together.

Remove top hinge filler for non-handed doors

The improper clearance condition may be improved by removing the top hinge leaf attached to the door and taking out the filler (hinge filler) from behind the leaf. Once completed, reattach hinge leaf to door. A hinge filler is used on all non-handed doors.

Add shims to bottom and/or middle hinge

On handed or non-handed doors, the lower half of the door can be shifted upward and toward the strike jamb. Remove the screws which attach the middle and/or bottom hinge(s) to the door. Insert shims between the hinge leaf and door. Reattach hinge leaf to door.

Standard-weight to heavy-weight hinge modifications

Although styles and types vary, many manufacturers offer built-in features that allow hinge pockets on doors and frames to be modified from standard-weight to heavy-weight. Examples of the different methods are: grinding or flattening down raised embossments in shim plates or reinforcements; removing or breaking off hinge filler shim plates; adjusting set screws; and removing wire shims. These options all involve removing material from the pocket to allow for heavy-weight depth to be achieved. As always, check with individual manufacturers to determine the type of modifications offered.

Is the door binding?

Frames which are out of plumb will likely cause improper operation of locksets and binding of bolts in the strike. Check carefully the installation of the frame prior to making hardware adjustments.