It is very annoying when your doors become noisy while opening or closing it. However, you can easily fix it if you hear your door hinge squeak. The squeaky door hinge fix requires some basic steps.
You must gather the required tools, identify the source, tighten the screws, and use lubricant for door hinges. You should also remove the hinge pins, lubricate the latch, and inspect the strike plate.
Why Do Doors Make a Squeaky Noise?
Most of the time, friction between the hinges and the hinge pins is what makes a door creak. The original lubrication on the hinges dries out with time. This causes the metal surfaces to scrape against one another.
The following are a few things that could cause creaky door hinges:
- Absence of lubrication: Low to no lubrication is the most frequent reason for creaky hinges. The metal surfaces begin to scrape against one another as the lubrication wears out. It causes friction and noise.
- A buildup of dirt: Dirt and grime build up on the hinges and hinge pins. So, friction is increased and the squeaking sound is worsened.
- Loose hinges: Loose hinges can make a door turn unevenly. This can also make a door creak.
- Warped door or frame: A warped door or frame may exert unequal pressure on the hinges. This also results in a squeaky door.
- Rust or corrosion: Friction and squeaking can also be caused by rust or corrosion. Rust can accumulate on the hinges or hinge pins.
7 Ways to Fix Squeaky Door Hinge
If you want to know how to fix a squeaky door, you should follow this step-by-step guide:
1. Gather the Tools
Keep these required tools ready to fix squeaky door hinges:
2. Identify the Source
Open and close the door slowly to pinpoint the exact location of the squeak. Most of the time, it comes from the hinges. The noise may also come from the latch or other moving parts.
3. Tighten the Screws
Examine all of the screws on the latch plate, strike plate, and door hinges using a screwdriver. Adjust any loose screws by tightening them. You can easily eliminate squeaks with this one technique.
4. Lubricate the Hinges
Lubricate the hinge pins with a lubricant such as WD-40 or silicone spray. To carry out this:
- Fully open the door.
- Apply the lubricant directly to the hinge pins where they enter the hinge barrel for every hinge.
- To make sure the lubricant enters the hinge, sway the door back and forth.
- Using a paper towel or rag, remove any extra lubrication.
5. Remove the Hinge Pins
It could be necessary to take out the hinge pins if the squeak continues. Using a screwdriver and hammer, tap out the pins while the door is open. To support the hinge, place a block of wood underneath the screwdriver.
After removing the pins, give them a quick wipe down and coat them lightly with paraffin wax. Now, place the pins back in and give them a little tap.
6. Lubricate the Latch
Lubricate the moving parts with a small quantity if the latch is the source of the noise. To ensure that the lubricant is distributed evenly, open and close the door many times. This will eliminate a squeaky door hinge.
Use a dry lubricant on the hinges and latch, such as graphite powder, if you want a dry alternative. In contrast to lubricants based on oil, it doesn’t draw in dust and grime.
7. Inspect the Strike Plate
Make sure that the latch and strike plate on the door frame are positioned correctly. Use a screwdriver to realign the striking plate if it isn’t positioned properly. This may help to avoid needless tension.
Squeaky Door Hinge – FAQs
How frequently should I lube my door hinges?
Lubricate door hinges at least once a year.
What if the squeak persists despite tightening the screws?
Consider taking out, lubricating, and then reinserting the hinge pins.
Can I lubricate the door using cooking oil?
Cooking oil can gather dust and get sticky, but you can still use it temporarily.
Should I take the door off to replace a squeaky hinge?
It’s not required most of the time.
How can I lubricate door hinges without creating a mess?
Use dry lubricants like powdered graphite.
