Top Pro Tips for Hanging a Door

12th Aug 2024 -

Hanging an internal door is a fundamental skill which demands precision and strong attention to detail. While it may seem straightforward, the process involves several critical steps to ensure a smooth functioning result. 

For this feature, we guide you through the nuances of internal door hanging, helping you refine your technique. From selecting the right door and preparation to achieving perfect alignment, we cover all aspects of the job. 

• Steps for Preparing to Hang an Internal Door
• Top Tips on How to Fit an Internal Door
• Do You Install All Internal Doors the Same Way?
• 11 Mistakes to Avoid When Hanging Internal Doors
• Explore Versatile and Solid Internal Doors

Steps for Preparing to Hang an Internal Door

Proper preparation is important for a successful door installation. Attention to detail during this phase impacts the efficiency and quality of the final result. Here is a guide to pre-installation preparation. 

1. Advanced tool selection

Beyond standard tools, consider incorporating advanced equipment for precision and efficiency. A laser level ensures perfect alignment across multiple door installations. Digital angle finders help to achieve exact measurements for complex door frames. 

For high-volume jobs, invest in a power planer for quick, accurate cuts. A moisture meter is key for assessing wood doors and frames, preventing future warping issues. Consider using a digital measuring device for highly accurate dimensions, especially in non-standard openings.

2. Customised material preparation

Pre-finish door edges before installation to prevent visible raw edges when the door is open. If working with veneer doors, edge banding materials (thin PVC or wood veneer strips) cover the exposed substrate on cut edges. 

For sound insulation, prepare foam inserts for hollow core doors or gather sound-dampening weatherstripping. In high-humidity areas, consider applying a moisture-resistant sealant to the bottom edge of the door before installation.

3. Advanced hardware preparation

Pre-assemble and adjust hardware components in a controlled environment. Use a hinge jig for perfectly aligned mortises every time. For smart door systems, pre-wire the frame and door for electronic components, ensuring seamless integration during installation.

Create a mock-up of complex door hardware setups to test functionality.

4. Internal door measurements

Standard internal door sizes come in widths of 24, 28, 30, 32 and 36 inches. Internal door heights are typically 78 or 80 inches. However, prepare for non-standard situations by having a comprehensive sizing strategy.

Create a detailed measurement sheet including width, height, as well as diagonal measurements to check for squareness and jamb depth. Use a digital laser measure for the best accuracy. 

Top Tips on How to Fit an Internal Door

Mastering internal door installation greatly boosts quality. These sophisticated methods go beyond basic practices to achieve superior results. The following techniques for fitting internal doors offer solutions to enhance precision and functionality. 

Scribing for a perfect fit

Use a scriber or compass to transfer the exact contours of an uneven floor or out-of-square frame to the door. Set the door in place and use shims (thin and tapered pieces of wood, plastic or metal) to level it. 

The scriber should be set to the widest gap between the door, frame or floor. Run the scriber along the frame or floor, marking the door. Cut or plane the door to match the scribed line. 

• Achieves a custom fit for non-standard openings.
• Eliminates gaps that may cause drafts.
• Improves the overall aesthetic and functionality.

Hinge mortising with a router

Use a router with a template guide for precise and consistent hinge mortises (recessed cavities). Create a template from hardboard or plywood matching the hinge size. Clamp the template to the frame and use a router with a flush trim bit to cut the mortise. Fine-tune with a chisel if necessary. 

• Ensures uniform depth and clean edges for all mortises.
• Reduces installation time, especially for multiple doors.
• Improves the fit and operation of the door hinges.

Split-jamb installation

Use a split-jamb door unit for walls of varying thickness or out-of-plumb conditions. Install one-half of the jamb from one side of the wall and slide the door into place. Install the other half of the jamb from the opposite side, interlocking with the first half. Adjust for plumb and secure. 

• Allows for easy adjustment to various wall thicknesses.
• Simplifies installation in out-of-plumb openings.
• Offers a finished look on both sides of the wall without added trim work.

Adjustable hinge technology

For how to install a door with hinges, utilise adjustable hinges for fine-tuning door alignment post-installation. Use an Allen key to adjust the hinge in 3 dimensions: up/down, left/right and in/out. Make minor adjustments to achieve perfect alignment and reveal. 

• Allows for precise adjustment without removing the door.
• Compensates for settling or minor frame movements over time.
• Extends the installation lifespan by maintaining proper alignment.

Soundproofing techniques

Introduce soundproofing materials during installation for enhanced acoustic properties. Apply acoustic sealant around the frame before installation. Install sound-dampening weatherstripping around the door perimeter. Use a door bottom seal or automatic door bottom for gap closure. 

• Reduces sound transmission between rooms.
• Adds value to the installation.

Laser-guided alignment

Use laser levels for precise alignment of the door frame and hardware. Set up a cross-line laser level to project vertical and horizontal lines. Align the frame with the laser lines during installation. The laser marks consistent heights for handles and locks across multiple doors. 

• Ensures perfect plumb and level across the full installation.
• Improves consistency when installing multiple doors.
• Limits the need for manual measuring and marking.

Pre-hanging custom doors

Pre-hang custom doors in a controlled environment before on-site installation. Build a jig that mimics the door opening. Fit the door, install hinges and cut for hardware in the workshop. 

• Allows for more precise work in a controlled environment.
• Reduces on-site installation time.
• Minimises the impact of weather or site conditions on the fitting process.

Advanced weather resistance

Apply exterior door weather-resistant techniques to internal doors for superior sealing. Install a continuous weatherstrip kerf into the jamb and use expanding foam sealant between the frame and rough opening. Apply high-grade caulk at all joints in the frame. Install a threshold with an adjustable seal. 

• Enhances energy efficiency by reducing air leakage.
• Improves sound insulation properties.
• Provides better control of indoor air quality between rooms.

Invisible hinge installation

Use concealed or invisible hinges for a sleek appearance. Route precise pockets in both the door and frame using specialised jigs. Install the hinge mechanisms into these pockets and adjust the hinges for proper alignment and operation. 

• Creates a clean and minimalist aesthetic.
• Allows for 180-degree door opening in many cases.
• It provides enhanced security as hinges are not exposed.

Do You Install All Internal Doors the Same Way?

While the basic principles on how to hang a door remain consistent, different door styles present unique challenges. Understanding these differences is key to achieving optimal results. Below, we outline what you need to consider across various internal door types.

Single internal doors

Single internal doors are the most common and straightforward to install. The process begins with ensuring the rough opening is plumb, level and square. Install the frame, shimming as necessary to maintain alignment. Hang the door on its hinges, typically 3 for standard heights. Adjust for even reveal and install the latch and strike plate.

• Standard clearances are typically 1/8" at the sides and top, 3/8" to 1/2" at the bottom.
• Fitting door hinges properly is crucial for weight distribution and smooth operation.

Internal double doors

Double doors (or French doors) require precise alignment of both door leaves. Install the frame with single doors, ensuring it is perfectly square. Hang both doors, starting with the less-used leaf and align the meeting stiles for a tight, even fit when closed. Install flush bolts on the fixed leaf if needed.

• Maintaining equal reveals between doors and frames is critical.
• The inactive leaf often requires added securing mechanisms (flush bolts or surface bolts).
• Coordinating the locking mechanisms between both leaves is essential.

Bifold internal doors

Internal folding doors involve a track system and multiple hinged panels. Install the top track ensuring it is level and securely fastened. Attach the jamb pivot socket and top pivot socket. Hang the bifold panels, starting with the lead door and adjust the bottom pivot and top guide for smooth operation. Install the aligner to keep doors closed when not in use.

• Exact measurements are important; less room for error with folding panels.
• Proper alignment of the track is essential for smooth operation.
• Allow for adequate clearance at the bottom for carpets or uneven floors.

Glazed internal doors

Glazed doors require extra care because of the fragility of the glass panels. Handle the door with extra caution to avoid glass breakage. Install the frame as with standard doors and ensure hinges can support the added weight of the glass. Check that the glazing beads are secure and properly sealed. 

• Ensure the frame and hinges support the increased weight of glazed doors.
• Be mindful of glass edge exposure when adjusting reveals.

Discover our full range of internal door types for your project. 

11 Mistakes to Avoid When Hanging Internal Doors

Even as experienced installers, you encounter challenges when hanging internal doors. Being aware of common pitfalls and knowing how to address them saves time and ensures a high-quality installation. Here are some frequent mistakes and solutions. 

Common Mistake	Issue	Solution
Door Size	Ordering or cutting a door that is too large or small for the opening.	Measure the opening in multiple places. Allow for proper clearances (usually 50 mm in width and height larger than the door). For custom openings, order slightly oversized and trim.
Uneven Reveals	Inconsistent gaps around the door lead to binding or visual imbalance.	Use shims strategically when installing the frame. Start with a plumb hinge-side jamb. Consider using adjustable hinges for fine-tuning.
Improper Hinge Placement	Doors that sag or do not close properly due to poor positioning and door hinge spacing.	Follow the rule of thirds for hinge placement. Use a hinge mortising jig for precision. Consider adding a fourth hinge or using heavy-duty hinges for heavy doors.
Neglecting to Check for Square	Doors that do not close properly or have uneven gaps because of out-of-square frames.	Check rough opening and frame for square using diagonal measurements. Use a laser level for accuracy and adjust the frame during installation with shims.
Overlooking Floor Clearance	Doors that drag on the floor or have excessive gaps.	Check floor height at multiple points. Allow for proper clearance based on flooring type. Use an undercut saw to trim the door bottom. Consider installing a door sweep.
Latch and Strike Plate Alignment	Doors that do not latch properly or require force to close.	Use a marking gauge for accurate latch positions. Use a self-centring drill bit for boreholes. Adjust strike plate position as needed. Consider an adjustable strike plate for problematic fits.
Ignoring Wood Movement	Doors that stick or develop gaps because of seasonal changes.	Allow doors to acclimate before installation. Think about wood moisture content and home humidity levels. Use properly kiln-dried wood for frames. Consider engineered wood products for stability.
Overtightening Screws	Split wood, sunken screw heads or binding hinges.	Use a torque-limiting drill or screwdriver. Pre-drill appropriate pilot holes. Use a wood filler or screw hole repair kit for stripped holes.
Poor Preparation of Existing Frames	New doors fit poorly in old frames because of paint build-up or damage.	Clean and inspect old frames thoroughly. Strip excess paint and repair damage. Use a jamb saw for clean, square edges. Consider a frame repair kit or full replacement if necessary.
Neglecting Final Adjustments	Doors that function poorly due to lack of fine-tuning.	Plan for a final adjustment phase. Check for smooth operation, proper latching and consistent gaps. Use a plane or sandpaper for minor adjustments.  Lubricate hinges and test the full range of motion.
Improper Installation of Door Accessories	Misaligned internal door handles and other accessories changing a door.	Use templates provided with hardware for accurate positioning. Ensure consistent height across multiple doors. Pre-drill holes to prevent splitting and use appropriate screw lengths to avoid piercing the opposite side.