How to Fix a Squeaky Door Hinge
While a squeaky door may have a few advantages – you can tell when the kids come and go – in general, a squeaky door is an annoyance. And if you ignore a squeaky door too long, friction can wear the hinge pin excessively and make the door hard to operate.
Common Causes of Squeaky Door Hinges
Squeaky door hinges are a common household annoyance that can often be traced back to specific causes. One of the most frequent culprits is a lack of proper lubrication, which results in increased friction between the hinge’s moving parts. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can also accumulate within the hinge, exacerbating the problem and creating noisy movement.
Rust and corrosion, especially in humid environments or with older hinges, can further contribute to the squeaking sound, as the metal deteriorates and stiffens. Additionally, loose or worn-out screws can cause uneven pressure on the hinge, leading to misalignment and noise. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward effectively quieting your squeaky door hinge and restoring smooth, silent operation.
Maintenance of Squeaky Door Hinges
The fix is simple. Purchase light lubricating oil in a small can with a drip spout. This allows you to apply just a few drops at a time. The oil may be called 3-in-1 oil or sewing machine oil.
With a small rag or paper towel handy, place few drops of oil atop the tight horizontal pin joint at the hinge. The oil will be drawn into the joints, and you can catch any excessive oil with the rag by wiping the hinge. Repeat on all hinges.
Open and close the door completely a few times to distribute the oil, and take one last swipe at the hinge to ensure that no oil drips on the floor. You should lubricate the hinges about every two years. I like to use the oil in a small can because it’s not messy like a spray lubricant.