If your door is squeaking, sticking or starting to sag, there’s a good chance the hinge is worn out or damaged. The good news is this is a simple fix you can handle in under an hour with a few basic tools.

Replacing a door hinge obviously improves how your door opens and closes, and it prevents further wear on the frame by keeping everything aligned. Here’s how to do it.

When You Should Replace a Door Hinge

• The door is sagging or dragging on the floor
• The door won’t close properly or stays misaligned
• The hinge is bent, cracked, or pulling away
• Screws won’t stay tight in the wood
• Rust or visible wear on the hinge

Tools & Materials You’ll Need

• Replacement door hinge (match size, style, and finish)
• Screwdriver or drill
• Screws (usually included with the hinge)
• Wood filler or wood shims (for stripped holes)
• Utility knife (optional)
• Level (optional)

How to Replace a Door Hinge

1. Support or Remove the Door

If you’re replacing one hinge at a time, leave the door in place and support it underneath with a wedge or book. For multiple hinges, remove the door completely.

2. Remove the Old Hinge

Unscrew the hinge from the door and the frame. Start with the bottom screws while keeping the door supported.

3. Check the Hinge Area

Inspect the recessed area. If screw holes are stripped, use wood filler or insert small wood shims for a tighter hold.

4. Install the New Hinge on the Door

Line up the new hinge so it sits flush in the existing space. Secure it with screws, starting with one to hold alignment.

5. Attach the Hinge to the Frame

With the door aligned, screw the hinge into the frame. Start with the top screw, then add the rest.

6. Test and Adjust

Open and close the door to check alignment. Tighten or adjust as needed for a smooth fit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong hinge size or type
• Misaligning the hinge so it doesn’t sit flush
• Over-tightening screws and stripping holes
• Skipping repairs on worn screw holes

Pro Tips from the Hardware Store

• Bring your old hinge in to match size and finish exactly
• If one hinge is worn, consider replacing all of them
• Use a longer screw in the top hinge to help fix a sagging door
• Expect small adjustments in older homes

Need Help?

If you’re not sure which hinge you need, bring your old hinge, or a photo, into your local Hassett Hardware. Our team can help you find the right fit and get your door working the way it should.

Door Hinge Replacement FAQs

Can I replace a door hinge without removing the door?

Yes. If you replace one hinge at a time and support the door underneath, you can usually keep the door in place during the process.

What size door hinge do I need?

Most interior doors use 3.5-inch hinges, while exterior doors often use 4-inch hinges. It’s best to match the size and style of your existing hinge.

Why is my door still sagging after replacing the hinge?

Sagging is often caused by loose or stripped screw holes. Try using longer screws or repairing the holes with wood filler or shims for a tighter fit.

Should I replace all door hinges at once?

If one hinge is worn or damaged, the others are likely not far behind. Replacing all hinges at the same time can improve alignment and performance.