How to Lubricate Door Hinges

Ask any homeowner what the most annoying sound is within their property and the chances are that they’ll complain about the high-pitched squealing noise that is usually associated with door hinges. Although the tedious nature of noisy door hinges can drive us to despair, rectifying the problem is incredibly simple and within a short space of time your doors can be operating effectively and, perhaps more importantly, in total silence!

Step 1 – Using the Correct Materials

It is imperative that the correct materials are used for this task, particularly when it comes to the oil you use. Regular maintenance oil, such as the type one might use when carrying out an assortment of tasks on a bicycle, is insufficient for rectifying squeaky door hinges.

Instead, penetrating oil should be used. This is the same type of material that can be used to loosen rusty nuts and bolts and is available to purchase from hardware stores in aerosol or liquid form. Penetrating oil will not leave a sticky residue that can be a magnet for small hands that will inevitably spread any subsequent mess over clean walls and furniture.

Step 2 – Minimizing the Mess

Before lubricating your door hinges, spread a large groundsheet on the floor making sure that it passes underneath the bottom edge of the door. The groundsheet should be completely flat so that the door can still be opened and closed without snagging. The groundsheet will absorb any spillages and offers protection to your floors.

Step 3 – Setting the Hinges

The door hinges can be lubricated more effectively when the pin is pulled halfway out of the hinge. The pin should be eased up gently using a flat-headed screwdriver with a suitably-sized tapered head. Ensure the door remains open while lubricating as this will provide easier access to both sides of the hinge.

Step 4 – Using Penetrating Oil

Once the hinge has been correctly set up, the hinge can be oiled. Aerosol oils are easy to apply and usually come supplied with a small tube that fits into the aerosol nozzle to promote a more precisely accurate application.

If you are using liquid penetrating oil from a can or bottle, it is recommended that you use a small pipette to withdraw oil and to ensure accuracy when oiling the hinge. Only a small amount of penetrating oil will be required in both instances.

Step 5 – Testing the Door

Move the oil aside to help avoid potential spillages and test the effectiveness of lubricating the door hinges by opening and closing the door itself. The door should function silently, but if any noise remains an additional application of oil should be made.

Step 6 – Finishing the Job

Once the door is correctly lubricated and is operating silently, you can knock the pin back into the usual position by tapping it lightly with a small hammer. Any excess penetrating oil on the door frame or door can be wiped away using a clean cloth.

The groundsheet should be removed and all oils and materials can be stored away safely until further use is required.