How to Shim a Door Hinge. If you’re a contractor or commercial door and frame installer looking for information on shimming door hinges, you’re in the right place. In this article, we will discuss the different shim materials available and how to use them to fix hinge binds and frames that are slightly out of square.

Choosing the right shim material is crucial, so let’s take a closer look at each option.

Paper or thin cardboard stock

Paper or thin cardboard stock is commonly used because it is easily accessible and can be cut to size and folded or stacked as needed. However, it should only be used for interior openings that are not fire rated, as it can be compromised by moisture and is not suitable for exterior openings or fire-rated doors.

Plastic

Plastic is another option, and it has the advantage of not breaking down like paper when used in exterior or damp locations. However, it may be more challenging to cut and hold in position, and should not be used in fire-rated openings.

Wood

Wood is not recommended for shim material due to its difficulty in cutting to size, susceptibility to swelling or breaking down in moist conditions, and its incompatibility with fire-rated openings.

Steel

On the other hand, steel is the ideal material for hinge shims. It does not deteriorate in exterior openings, especially if galvanized, and is approved for use in fire-rated openings according to NFPA 80 regulations. While steel shims may not be readily available on the job site, they can be obtained from door and hardware distributors.

Now that we’ve discussed the pros and cons of different shim materials, let’s move on to the techniques and situations where shimming door hinges is necessary.

Realigning Frames: Hinge Bind and Frame Squaring Solutions

Using Shims to Fix a Hinge Binds Against the Rabbet

This guide offers three types of hinge binds and explains how shims can be used to fix them. In the case of a hinge bind against the rabbet, where the edge of the door closest to the hinge barrel hits the frame and hinders proper opening and closing, follow these steps to resolve the issue:

– Place a support or wooden wedge under the door to relieve tension.

– Starting with the top hinge, remove it and insert a steel shim between the hinge leaf and the door or frame.

– Repeat this process for every hinge on the unit.

– To minimize gaps and ensure flush hinge leaf surfaces with the rabbet and backset surfaces, use two shims that are each half the thickness of the previous ones.

– Reinstall the hinge and securely tighten the screws into the reinforcement.

– Remove the support or wooden wedge from under the door and close it gently.

– Check the clearances to ensure they meet the desired dimension.

– After each adjustment, close the door slowly and check the perimeter clearances.

Fixing a Hinge Bind Against Stops Using Shims

Fixing a hinge bind against stops using shims involves adding shims between the hinge and hinge reinforcement to adjust clearances and eliminate the bind. Follow these guidelines to properly shim the door:

– Open the door and place a support or wooden wedge underneath to relieve tension.

– Starting with the top hinge remove the hinge and insert a shim between the leaf of the hinge and the frame. Note that smaller shims should be used in this application.

– Repeat this process for every hinge on the unit.

– Remove the support or wooden wedge from under the door and slowly close it to ensure clearances meet the desired dimensions.

– Refer to the figure provided for potential locations to place shims and adjust clearances.

– Keep in mind that using different combinations of shims (A, B, C, D) will move the door in different directions and by varying amounts.

By following these steps, you can effectively use shims to fix a hinge bind against stops.

This diagram illustrates a hinge and hinge-reinforcement found in a metal door frame. It also shows the different placements of shims that can be used to adjust clearances.

– Using shim “A” will move both the door and centerline of the hinge barrel in the “-X” direction.

– Using shim “B” will only move the door in the “-X” direction.

– Using both shims “A” and “B” will move the door in the “-X” direction to a greater extent than when used individually.

– Using shim “C” will move both the door and centerline of the hinge barrel in the “+X” direction.

– Using shim “D” will only move the door in the “+X” direction.

– Using both shims “C” and “D” will move the door in the “+X” direction to a greater extent than when used individually.

Fixing If the Frames are Way out of Square Using Shims

Dude, when it comes to installing frames, you can’t mess around. Most of the time, you can’t just do a quick fix if the frames are way out of square. That’ll cause major problems with the door and stuff, and you might even have to take the frames off the wall. But if the frame is just a little wonky, you can try using shims or adjusting the anchors, especially if it’s one of that slip-on drywall frames. Here’s what you got to do:

– Take the door off the frame.

– Unscrew the sill anchors to loosen the frame and straighten it out.

– If the frame is caulked in, use a razor knife to cut the caulking or paint along the edge, being careful not to mess up the wall.

– Fix any leveling problems with the head of the frame first.

– Decide if you need to shim up the strike side, hinge side, or maybe both to level the head.

– Loosen the compression anchor screw on the side that needs to be moved to level the head.

– Stick a temporary spreader between the sides of the frame to make sure everything lines up right.

– Start by adjusting the strike side, then check if it’s square and plumb.

– Install the base anchor loosely.

– Move on to the hinge side and repeat the previous step.

– Once the sides are all good, tighten the screws on the sill straps or the frame itself, and tighten the compression anchors.

– Make sure everything is level and plumb before fully tightening.

– Take out the spreader and put the door back on.

– Check that the gaps between the door and frame are all consistent and right for the manufacturer.

– If you took off any baseboards, you can put them back on now.

– And if you cut any caulking, just reapply it and paint if you need to.

Remember, these are just some tips to help you out. Make sure you follow all the building codes and stuff for your area.

Conclusion

In conclusion, shims can be an effective solution for fixing hinge binds and addressing frame square issues. Whether it’s a hinge bind against the rabbet, hinge bind against stops, or slightly out of square frames, shims can help ensure smooth door operations and prevent further problems.

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