I am replacing hinges on an exterior door. I have formulated a rough plan based on suggestions I have already read on this forum- but would appreciate your input as to how this sounds.

Assuming I can find interchangeable hinges I would then one by one replace the hinges with shims supporting the door while it is open.

Once I know everything is fitting properly I would replace the top screw of each hinge with a three inch screw for added support.

Some questions as I have never done this before:

1-Should I replace all of the screws with ones that are slightly longer than the originals as well as having continuos threads ( Still substituting one 3 inch in each hinge)?
2- Should the 3 inch substitute be used just into the door frame or also into the actual door?
3-One user mentioned a product (cant remember the exact name "swell something") Any instructions/ info on this would be great4-The original door hinges are 4 inch Pella's with a roudned profile. I could not find hinges on their site and I cant seem to find many options for this particular style with the hole pattern that i need on line. Any advice?

 

Why are you replacing the hinges??????

Use screws long enough to get at least 1"+ bite in the house framing on the inner two screws(closest to center of the door) of the hinge. 2 1/2-3" screws are usually supplied with a door. DO NOT overtighten, do not leave slightly loose!!! These should be on the top and center hinge.

Hinges come with square corners, and rounded corners. Rounded corners vary, match what you have.

 

Thanks Bill

I am replacing the hinges to match the oil rubbed bronze finishes we are starting to change things over to in the house. It is a design decision. That is why I am doing my research so that the integrity of the door function/ strength is not sacrificed.

One more question- what order would you replace the hinges in, ie: middle first, bottom then top? Is it important or does using shims negate the importance of that?

 

Call Pella (or use their web site) to get the right size and style hinges with the right finish. It really doesn't matter which one you start with as long as you do them one at a time like you envisioned. Follow JustBill's advice about the screw location and the tightness of the screw. (if I recall, its the 2nd hole not the top hole- use whichever hole is closest to the center of the door jamb) If you bust one of those screws off, you're screwed.

 

Thanks- i will try calling Pella. i did not see hinges on the web site but maybe I can get more specific information over the phone.

I recently replaced hinges on our double door entry closet. I did not use any longer screws for reinforcement. I simply reused the same holes and the screws that came with the hinges. do you think I should go back and use longer screws?

 

Hollow core interior doors don't usually need them, but with time heavier solid core doors often do. If the doors align properly the way they are I'd leave them alone.