Door Hinge Jig

When hanging a new door, one that is not pre-hung, the location of the hinges on the door frame and the door itself are required to be beveled out to exactly the depth of the hinge itself.  This allows the hinge to sit flush against both the door and the frame making for smooth operation.  The hinges must also line up perfectly so that the door can close at both the top and the bottom with only the 1/8” gap between the jamb and the door.  The guide to bevel out the door hinges is called a door hinge jig.

How it Works

Measure from the top of the frame to the desire location of the hinges.  Some door manufacturers will include in their installation materials precisely where the hinges should be located.  Measure this same distance from the top of the door frame adding 1/8”.  The door hinge jig is nailed into position.  Using the manufacturer specified router bit and guide, the door hinge jig allows a uniform area to be beveled out for the hinge to sit in flush.

Common Issues

Some common issues arising with the use of door hinge jigs are mostly caused by user error.  The jig needs to be secure and users are highly recommended to follow all of the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Make sure you use the correct router bit and guide, if recommended.  Not using the router guide or using an incorrect bit are probably the most common issues with door hinge jigs.  This can cause personal injury or damage to your guide, router, and wood.

Of course, there are always measurements that were not done with care.  Remember, always measure twice and cut once.  It is much easier and efficient, no matter what project you are involved with at the time.

Loose bits can occasionally hit the guide and/or the template.  This can ruin your template and your beveling, not to mention cause personal injury.  Make sure you are working smart and taking all safety measures.  In this case, safety goggles would be a very nice precaution.

Simple inexperience with the door hinge jig or in using a router can cause damage to the router, jig, or the craftsman.  Practicing with the jig on a piece of scrap wood is a great way to gain experience and a level of comfort with the template.  Again, always take safety measures.

Types of Door Hinge Jigs

The door hinge jigs can be either a dense black plastic or metal.  There are adjustable guides for different size doors and sets that include different templates in multiple sizes.  Some have guides for lining up the  templates.  When choosing which door hinge jig you will purchase, one of the most important things to consider is how comfortable you are using the recommended router bit and guide or bushing.  Do your homework and you can save yourself some frustration.

Once you have used a door hinge jig successfully, you will appreciate this small addition to your toolbox a great deal.