A broken door hinge in your garage can be a frustrating problem. It can make it hard to open or close your door properly. If the hinge breaks completely, your door may not even be usable. Luckily, fixing a broken door hinge is a project that most people can do themselves with a little time, patience, and the right tools.
This guide will help you understand how to fix a broken door hinge in your garage and get your door working like new again.
Keep reading to uncover all the details.
Why Do Door Hinges Break?
Before diving into the repair process, it’s important to understand why a door hinge might break in the first place. Over time, door hinges can become worn out due to constant use. This is especially true for garage doors, which are used frequently.
Another reason hinges may break is rust. If your garage door is exposed to moisture, the hinges can rust and corrode. This can make the metal brittle, and it may eventually snap.
Signs Your Door Hinge is Broken
It’s not always obvious when a door hinge is broken. However, there are a few signs that can help you identify the problem. If your garage door makes strange noises when opening or closing, it could be a sign that the hinges are damaged.
You may also notice that the door doesn’t hang straight or that it’s difficult to open and close. One of the most obvious signs of a broken hinge is if the door sags or becomes misaligned. If the door doesn’t close properly, or if the hinges are visibly cracked or broken, it’s time to fix them.
Gather the Tools You Need
Before you begin fixing a broken door hinge, make sure you have all the tools you need. The process is relatively simple, but it will go much smoother if you’re well-prepared. You’ll need a wrench or screwdriver to remove the hinge pins, a replacement hinge, a drill for any necessary holes, and some hinge lubrication.
Remove the Broken Hinge
The first step in fixing a broken door hinge is removing the damaged one. To do this, you’ll need to lift the door slightly, so it’s not putting pressure on the hinge. Depending on the design of your door, you might need someone to help lift it while you remove the hinge. If the door is too heavy, using a jack to support it temporarily will also work.
Once the door is supported, use a wrench or screwdriver to remove the hinge pins. If the pins are stuck or rusted, applying some hinge lubrication can make them easier to remove. Lubricating the hinge pins will help loosen any buildup of rust and allow you to remove them without damaging the surrounding area.
Install the New Hinge
Once the old hinge is removed, it’s time to install the new one. Position the new hinge where the old one was, making sure it is aligned properly with the door and frame. If the holes for the screws don’t line up perfectly, you might need to drill new ones. Be careful not to drill too deeply or too wide, as this could damage your door or frame.
After the hinge is in place, use a wrench or screwdriver to tighten the screws securely. Make sure the hinge is tightly fastened, but be careful not to over-tighten, as this can strip the screws or damage the door. If you’re in need of professional garage door services, Blue Jay Garage Doors offers expert installation and repair solutions to keep your door functioning properly.
Check for Proper Alignment
Once the new hinge is installed, it’s important to check the door alignment. If the door is misaligned, it may not open or close properly, and it could put extra strain on the new hinge. Check to see if the door is level and ensure that it swings smoothly.
If the door isn’t properly aligned, you may need to adjust the hinges. This can be done by slightly loosening the screws and shifting the hinge slightly before tightening again. It may take some time to get the door perfectly aligned, so be patient and make small adjustments as needed.
Test the Door
After you’ve installed the new hinge and checked the alignment, it’s time to test the door. Open and close it several times to make sure it moves smoothly and without any issues. Listen for any unusual sounds,such as squeaks or grinding noises, which could indicate that something isn’t quite right.
Prevent Future Issues
Once you’ve fixed the broken door hinge, it’s a good idea to take steps to prevent the problem from happening again in the future. Regularly check the condition of your door and its hinges to catch any early signs of wear and tear. Keeping the hinges clean and free from rust will help them last longer.
Applying hinge lubrication can also help prevent the hinges from seizing up or becoming corroded. This will ensure smooth movement and reduce friction, which helps extend the life of your door hinges. If your garage door is exposed to moisture, consider using a weatherproof lubricant designed for outdoor use.
When to Call a Professional?
While fixing a broken door hinge is a project that most homeowners can handle themselves, there are times when it’s best to call a professional. If the door is severely misaligned or the frame is damaged, it may require more advanced repair or replacement. A professional can assess the situation and make the necessary adjustments or replacements to ensure the door is in good working condition.
Fixing Your Broken Door Hinge
Fixing a broken door hinge in your garage doesn’t have to be a difficult or costly task. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can fix the issue yourself and get your door working like new again. Whether it’s simply replacing the hinge or fixing door alignment, taking your time and using the right tools will make the repair process easier.
Regular maintenance, including hinge lubrication, can also help prevent future issues and keep your garage door functioning smoothly for years to come. Expand your knowledge and check out more posts on our blog!
