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How to realign a door

If a door won't close - adjust the hinges! - by Better Homes and Gardens
  • 11 May 2021

It's not unusual for an older house to have a door that won't stay closed. It’s likely the latch and the striker plate on the jamb (into which the latch fits) don’t quite line up.

WATCH: Keep your door in working order with door stops

To fix this problem, look to the other edge of the door and adjust the hinges. This four-step guide is simple to follow and quick to complete. Here's how.

Gather your supplies

Utility knife; wedge; thin cardboard; drill and bits

Step 1

Using utility knife, run around bottom hinge, cutting through paint.

...
Better Homes and Gardens

Step 2

Knock a wedge under door to take weight of the door. Unscrew hinge from jamb and fold out.

...
Better Homes and Gardens

Step 3

Cut pieces of cardboard to dimensions of hinge. Slip cardboard between hinge and jamb.

Step 4

Using drill, reattach hinge to jamb. This slight padding under the hinge will lift the latch to engage with the striker plate.

Still having troubles with your door? Try one of these hacks:

How to fix a door that scrapes the floor in 3 easy steps

How to fix a binding door

How to fix a sagging door

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