Help with Upper Hinge Screws Ripping Off

  • Thread starter jocs_1116
  • Start date
In summary, the weight of a door creates a clockwise moment around the lower hinge, causing the upper hinge to apply more force to keep the door in place. This increased force can cause the screws of the upper hinge to rip off if the door is too heavy. This can be demonstrated by trying to hang a door bottom hinge first, which results in the door falling over due to the larger force on the top hinge.
  • #1
jocs_1116
2
0
pls help me with this one..

most doors are fastened to the wall using two hinges, which are placed symmetrically along the length. why do the screws of the upper hinge get
ripped off first? :confused:
 
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  • #2
I think the weight of the door gives rise to a clockwise moment about the lower hinge. The upper hinge therefore must apply some force to keep the door in place. Due to this if the the door is too heavy the screws of the upper hinge get ripped off.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Looked at another way:

Have you ever seen a door hung with *only* the top hinge attached? I do this when installing a door - attach the top hinge first. What does the bottom hinge do? Well, the bottom half of the door "dangles". You can easily move the door and, with just a little effort, actually put it in place, without even attaching the lower hinge.

Try hanging a door bottom hinge first. You will likely find yourself on the ground with a bump on your noggin and a door with a ripped lower hinge on top of you.

Point is, it becomes very evident that there is a *much* larger force acting on the top hinge than on the bottom hinge. The door wants to fall over, and in doing so, it will pivot about a point (the bottom corner of the door) which is very near the lower hinge.
 

What causes upper hinge screws to rip off?

There are several potential causes for upper hinge screws to rip off. One common cause is over-tightening the screws, which can strip the threads and cause them to come loose over time. Another cause could be a misalignment of the door or frame, which puts too much stress on the screws. Finally, the type and quality of the screws used can also play a role in their durability.

How can I prevent upper hinge screws from ripping off?

To prevent upper hinge screws from ripping off, it is important to use high-quality, appropriately sized screws. It is also essential to avoid over-tightening them and to ensure proper alignment of the door and frame. If necessary, you may need to reinforce the area with additional screws or replace the hinges altogether.

Can I repair upper hinge screws that have ripped off?

In some cases, it is possible to repair upper hinge screws that have ripped off. This typically involves filling the holes with wood putty or a similar material and then inserting new screws. However, if the damage is extensive, it may be necessary to replace the hinges or even the entire door.

Are there any specific tools or techniques for installing upper hinge screws?

Yes, there are some tips and tricks for installing upper hinge screws to ensure they stay secure. One technique is to use a screwdriver or drill with a torque control feature to avoid over-tightening. Additionally, using a pilot hole or lubricating the screws with soap or wax can make it easier to insert them without causing damage.

Is it common for upper hinge screws to rip off?

Upper hinge screws ripping off is a relatively common issue, especially in older homes where the hinges may have worn out over time. However, it is possible to prevent and repair this problem with proper installation and maintenance techniques.

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