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To assess whether the opening of a door frame is square or not and to determine how much will have to be trimmed off the door, and measure the diagonals of the door frame.
There should ideally be a maximum clearance of 5mm at the bottom of the door and 3mm clearance on the other three sides. To reduce in width, remove equal amounts up to 5mm from both sides and up to 10mm from the top and 15mm from the bottom of the door, again equally for reductions in the length of the door.
If hinges are not on the door frame already these should be fitted at +/- 180mm from both the top and the bottom of the door frame prior to any measuring or marking.
- Place the trimmed door in the opening and wedge it into position both top and bottom.
- Mark the hinge positions on the door edges from the hinges on the frame, then remove the door and extend the markings over the edges prior to scoring.
- The hinge outlines are now scored with a chisel.
- Cut a recess into the door and frame, ensuring the hinge is flush with the edge of the door. The screw holes are now marked and drilled.
- The hinge recesses are cut slightly deeper on the inside of the frame so that the hinge is not completely closed when the door is closed. The thickness of the hinge leaves at the knuckle and the recess depth should be the same. The knuckle should protrude from the frame and the door. Use a marking gauge to obtain the same depth for each hinge. Should you not succeed in setting the hinges evenly in the frame, the door will not swing freely necessitating time-consuming adjustment. Should the door not close easily, the hinges need adjusting.
- Once the hinges have been positioned correctly, they can be screwed up tightly.
The above is to be used as a guideline only. As manufacturers, we cannot be held responsible for how doors are installed and maintained on-site.
