Hanging Doors Properly: A Step-by-Step Guide

Door hanging is a fundamental carpentry skill that looks easy until you try it. Here's how to get consistent, professional results.

Preparation

Before starting:

• Check the lining is plumb and square
• Measure the opening accurately
• Check the floor level at both sides
• Have the correct door size (or one to trim)

Gap Requirements

Standard gaps around internal doors:

• Top: 2-3mm
• Sides: 2-3mm each side
• Bottom: 10mm minimum (more for carpet)

Marking and Trimming

1. Offer up the door and mark required cuts
2. Take equal amounts off each side if possible
3. Score the cut line to prevent splintering
4. Cut carefully and plane to final size
5. Slightly bevel the closing edge

Hinge Positioning

Standard hinge positions:

• Top hinge: 150mm from the top
• Bottom hinge: 225mm from the bottom
• Middle hinge: Centred (on heavy doors)

Cutting Hinge Recesses

1. Mark around the hinge accurately
2. Score the outline with a knife
3. Set chisel depth to hinge thickness
4. Chop across the grain
5. Pare out waste to leave flat bottom
6. Hinge should sit flush or fractionally proud

Fitting Process

1. Fit hinges to door first
2. Support door in opening
3. Mark hinge positions on lining
4. Cut lining recesses
5. Fix top hinge first
6. Check swing and adjust as needed
7. Fix remaining hinges

Latch and Lock Fitting

Once the door swings correctly:

• Position furniture at comfortable height (usually 990-1050mm)
• Drill and chisel for latch body
• Fit latch and face plate
• Mark keep position with door closed
• Cut keep recess accurately

Common Problems

• Door binds: Check hinge recesses aren't too deep
• Door springs open: Hinge recesses too shallow
• Latch doesn't catch: Keep misaligned
• Uneven gaps: Lining not plumb

Quality chisels and marking tools make accurate hinge cutting much easier.