How To Hide Door Hinges (5+ Ways Explained)

To hide door hinges, consider using hidden hinges that are designed to be concealed, pivot hinges installed at the top and bottom of the door, or flush hinges that create a seamless appearance. Utilizing a piano hinge for a continuous and polished look, incorporating decorative trim or molding, or using a door cover with various designs can effectively conceal hinges. Prioritize safety guidelines and seek professional assistance for installation when unsure.

Doors are an integral part of any home or building, providing access and security.

But sometimes, the hinges that allow the door to open and close can be an eyesore.

Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to hide door hinges so that they blend into the surrounding decor and are less noticeable.

For those who want to try a DIY approach, painting the hinges can be an effective and simple solution.

Painting the hinges the same color as the door can provide a seamless look, while painting the hinges a contrasting color can make them blend in with the decorations of the room.

There are also decorative hardware options, such as hinges with a faux-finish or a decorative pattern, that can easily enhance the look of doors in any home.

Gather Supplies

To begin the project, it is essential to gather the necessary supplies. A hinge concealment kit, containing screws and plugs to hide the screws, is needed. Quality paint and primer can provide a long-lasting finish, and sandpaper and a sanding block are essential tools for smoothing out any rough surfaces.

Hinge Concealment Kit

Finally, to complete the hidden hinge installation, a hinge concealment kit is needed. This kit includes the necessary items to properly conceal the hinges so they are not seen. It typically contains wood plugs, screws, and screws covers, which are used to hide the screws, and a drill bit, which is used to drill holes for the wood plugs.

The wood plugs are generally made of oak, walnut, or maple, and they are meant to match the wood type of the door. The screws are usually brass-plated, and the screw covers come in several colors, such as black, white, and brown, to match the color of the door. The drill bit is usually a countersink bit, which is designed to create a shallow hole in the door.

When using the hinge concealment kit, it is important to take care to ensure that the wood plugs fit properly in the holes that are drilled. The screws should also be securely fastened, and the screw covers should be placed over the screws to complete the look. With the right tools, a homeowner can easily install the hinge concealment kit and create a hidden hinge installation that will look professional and last for many years.

Paint and Primer

Having gathered the necessary hinge concealment kit, the next step is to procure the right paint and primer for the job. It is important to use a quality paint and primer to ensure that the chosen color will last for years to come.

When choosing a paint and primer, it is important to consider the surface that will be painted. For wood surfaces, choose a water-based paint and primer to prevent warping and discoloration. For metal surfaces, use an oil-based paint and primer to ensure the color will adhere to the surface. The primer will also help to reduce the amount of paint needed to achieve the desired look.

The quality of the paint and primer can also have an effect on the longevity of the color. High-quality paints and primers will last longer and provide better coverage than lower quality paints and primers. It is important to do research to determine which type of paint and primer will provide the best results for the specific project.

Sandpaper and Sanding Block

The next step in the process is to acquire the necessary supplies. Sandpaper and a sanding block are key components for achieving a smooth, professional finish on the project. With the right sandpaper and sanding block, the material will be free from splinters, bumps, and other imperfections.

The sandpaper should be of a medium grit, as this is ideal for woodworking. It should be durable enough to withstand the pressure of the sanding block. Additionally, the sandpaper should have a fine texture to make sanding easier and faster. The sanding block should be comfortable to grip, and it should have a flat surface and be well balanced.

When using the sandpaper and sanding block, make sure to start with a low-grit paper and work up to a higher-grit paper. This will ensure that any imperfections are removed and that the surface is smooth and even. To get the most out of the sandpaper, use even pressure when sanding and work in the same direction throughout the project. Working in the same direction will make the sanding process faster and more efficient.

Prepare the Door

Using a screwdriver, carefully detach the existing hinge from the door, ensuring all screws are removed. Once the hinge is removed, clean the area with a damp cloth to remove any dust and debris. Finish the preparation process by lightly sanding the surface with a fine-grit sandpaper.

Remove the Existing Hinge

Taking a deep breath, you ready yourself for the task at hand and begin to remove the existing hinge from the door. Removing the hinge requires a few steps, starting with unscrewing the screws from the door frame. You take your screwdriver and make quick work of them, and soon the hinge is no longer connected to the frame. Before you move on, you inspect the screws and find they are in good condition and can be reused.

You next move on to the door itself and begin to unscrew the screws from the hinge. You find these a bit more stuck than the ones from the frame, and need to use some elbow grease to get them out. After a few minutes, the screws are removed and you can confidently say the hinge has been detached from the door.

Now that the hinge is removed, you take a few moments to clean the area and make sure there won’t be any dust or dirt getting in the way of your new hinge. You take a damp cloth and wipe up the area, taking care to get into the nooks and crannies. When you’re done, you can feel confident that the area is all cleaned up and ready for the next step.

Clean the Area

Having collected all the required supplies, it was time to begin the door preparation process. First, it was necessary to remove the existing hinge and dispose of it responsibly. After that, the area was in need of a good cleaning.

Using a clean cloth, the surface was wiped down to rid the area of dust and debris. Bits of paint from the previous hardware were also removed, ensuring a smooth surface for the new hinge. To buff the area, a furniture polish was used, restoring the shine of the door and making it look like new.

With the area now clean and polished, the door was ready for the next step – sanding the surface. Sandpaper in various grades was used to ensure a smooth finish once the new hinge was installed. After a few minutes of sanding, the door was ready for the new hinge to be installed.

Sand the Surface

Having removed the existing hinge, it was time to prepare the door for the new hinge. Before moving on to the installation process, the area needed to be properly prepped. Sanding the surface was the next step.

For the best results, the area was sanded using fine-grade sandpaper. Working slowly and methodically, the sandpaper was swept across the surface in even, overlapping strokes. This process created a smooth, rough texture, ideal for the installation of the new hinge.

A dusting brush was used to remove any residual particles, ensuring that the surface was completely clean before moving on to the installation of the new hinge. By taking the time to sand the surface, the installation process became easier and more efficient, ensuring that the new hinge was securely in place when finished.

Install the Concealment Kit

Using the concealment kit, the next step is to attach the hinge plate. Secure the plate in place with screws, then apply adhesive to the back to ensure the plate is in place. Once the adhesive is dry, the concealment kit is installed and ready for use.

Attach the Hinge Plate

Having prepared the door, it was time to move on to the next step – attaching the hinge plate. This was the crucial foundation on which the rest of the concealment kit would be built. Securing the hinge plate took a few simple steps, but each one was of the utmost importance.

First, the hinge plate had to be lined up with the desired location of the hinges. This required visual inspection, as well as some measuring and marking, to ensure that the placement was precise. Once the location was determined, the plate itself had to be carefully attached. The screws were driven in with great care, making sure to not over-tighten them and damage the surface of the door.

Finally, to ensure that the hinge plate stayed in place, a thin layer of adhesive was applied around the edges. By taking the time to do each step with precision, the hinge plate was securely attached and ready for the next step in the installation process.

Secure the Plate with Screws

Building upon the prior step of attaching the hinge plate to the door, the next step is to secure the plate with screws. These screws are small and should be handled with care, as they are the only thing keeping the plate in place. Carefully thread the screws through the hole in the hinge plate, being sure to ensure it’s flush with the door. With the screws in place, use a screwdriver to drive them into the door until they are firmly secured. The screwdriver should be turned slowly and gradually, as to not over-tighten the screws and risk damaging the door. With the screws in place, the hinge plate is now securely fastened to the door.

applying adhesive

Having securely attached the hinge plate, the next step is to apply adhesive to the surface. Doing this will ensure that the plate is firmly and permanently placed on the door. Utilizing a generous amount of adhesive, it should be spread evenly and carefully across the entire surface of the plate. Once it has been applied, the adhesive should be given time to set and dry. The amount of time this process takes will depend on the type of adhesive used. It is important to check the instructions on the adhesive packaging to ensure that it is being used correctly. After the adhesive has dried, the hinge plate will be firmly fastened and the concealment kit can be successfully installed.

Paint the Concealment Kit

First, the hinge plate must be prepped by applying a coat of primer to ensure a smooth, even finish. Next, the actual hinge plate is painted with the desired color. Finally, a protective coating is applied to the concealment kit to complete the painting process.

Apply Primer

Now that the Concealment Kit has been installed, it’s time to spruce it up with a fresh coat of paint. The first step is to apply primer to the hinge plate. Primer is an essential part of painting a Concealment Kit, as it provides a smooth base layer that allows the paint to adhere better.

To begin the primer application process, take a brush and dip it into the primer. Then, start from the bottom of the hinge plate and gradually move up in even strokes. Make sure to get into all crevices and cracks, as this will ensure that the primer coats the entire hinge plate. After the primer has been applied, use a rag to wipe off any excess primer. This will ensure an even coat of primer.

The next step is to wait for the primer to dry. This can take anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of primer. Once the primer is dry, the hinge plate will be ready for painting. With the primer now in place, the Concealment Kit will look better than ever.

Paint the Hinge Plate

Now that the primer has been applied to the hinge plate, it’s time to paint the hinge plate. To begin, select a color that matches the surrounding environment. A light color is preferable for best camouflage. Once the color is selected, dip the roller into the paint and begin rolling it onto the hinge plate starting from the top. Roll the paint in a consistent direction and ensure that the entire surface is covered. Take care to avoid any drips or paint splatters. Once the hinge plate is completely painted, allow the paint to dry. It’s best to wait at least 24 hours before continuing with the next step.

Painting the Concealment Kit

Having completed the installation of the Concealment Kit, it was time to move onto painting. The next step was to paint the Concealment Kit.

The first step was to prepare the surface of the Concealment Kit. This involved sanding it to create a smooth, even surface. Next, the Concealment Kit was wiped down to remove any dust and dirt from the sanding. Once the surface was ready, a coat of primer was applied to the Concealment Kit. This was left to dry for two hours.

Once the primer was dry, the Concealment Kit was ready to be painted. The color chosen was a light tan to blend in with the surrounding environment. A high-quality paint was used for the best coverage. The paint was applied in even, sweeping strokes, with a brush and roller. The paint was left to dry for twenty-four hours before the final coat was applied.

The final coat was applied with the same care and attention as the first coat. The paint was left to dry for a full day before the Concealment Kit was ready to be put into use. After the paint dried, the Concealment Kit was ready to be used for its intended purpose.

Reattach the Hinge

Carefully lining up the hinge on the plate, the four screws were fastened into place. With the hinge now securely attached, measuring the new hinge was the next step. Making sure the measurements were precise, the new hinge was then carefully cut to size.

Place the Hinge on the Plate

Now that the concealment kit has been painted, it is time to reattach the hinge to the plate. To do this, place the hinge on the plate, ensuring that it is properly aligned and that the screws will fit in the pre-drilled holes. The first step is to make sure that the holes line up with the screw holes on the hinge. When they do, insert the small screws into the holes and use a screwdriver to tighten them until the hinge is secure. It is important to make sure that the hinge is securely attached, as this will prevent it from becoming loose or malfunctioning over time. Once the hinge is firmly in place, it is time to measure and cut the new hinge.

Secure the Hinge with Screws

Next, securing the hinge with screws. To do this, use a cordless drill to attach the screws to the plate. Position the screws at equal distances across the plate, making sure no two screws are placed too close together. When drilling the screws into the plate, be sure to press firmly and evenly to ensure a secure fit. Use a level to ensure that the screws are installed at the same height. If the screws are installed at varying heights, it will cause the hinge to sit unevenly on the plate.

Finally, tighten the screws until the hinge is firmly in place. Once the screws are tightened, check the fit of the hinge. Make sure it doesn’t move or rock when pressure is applied. If the hinge is not secure in the plate, unscrew the screws and adjust the screw placements until a secure fit is achieved.

Measure and Cut New Hinge

Next, it’s time to measure and cut a new hinge. Using a measuring tape, carefully measure the length of the hinge and mark the measurements on the replacement piece. Before cutting, double check the measurements to make sure they are correct. Once the measurements have been verified, use a hacksaw to cut the replacement piece to size. When cutting, be sure to use a steady hand and focus on accuracy to ensure the piece fits properly. After the piece has been cut, clean off any excess metal shavings using a rag.

Adjust the Hinge

Adjusting the hinge requires a few steps, including adjusting the tension, testing the hinge, and identifying the right hinge type. First, adjusting the tension of the hinge helps to ensure that it opens and closes smoothly. Next, testing the hinge helps to make sure that the door functions correctly. Finally, identifying the right hinge type is essential to make sure that the hinge fits the door properly.

Adjust the Tension

Now that the hinge is reattached, it’s time to adjust the tension and ensure that the door opens and closes smoothly. Adjusting the tension is relatively straightforward and requires a few simple tools.

Using a screwdriver, loosen the screws on either side of the hinge and slightly tilt the door so it’s slightly ajar. Then, using an adjustable wrench, turn the screws on either side of the hinge to adjust the tension. Starting with the bottom-most screws, turn each screw a quarter turn at a time, alternating between the top and bottom screw. Lift the door to test the tension and ensure that the tension is even on both sides.

Finally, take a few moments to ensure that the hinge is securely tightened and that the door itself fits securely in the frame. By adjusting the tension, you can ensure that the door opens and closes securely and smoothly.

Test the Hinge

Having reattached the hinge, it’s time to adjust the tension. It is important to adjust the tension to ensure the door opens and closes smoothly, while also providing the necessary support to hold the door in place. To test the hinge, open the door fully and then let go. The door should stay open on its own without any assistance. If the door does not stay open, the tension needs to be adjusted. With a few simple turns of the screws, the tension can be adjusted to the desired level.

The hinge should also be tested to ensure it can handle the weight of the door and provide a secure fit. This can be done by opening the door and then pushing down on the top of the door. If the door does not close smoothly, the hinge tension should be adjusted. If the door does not stay open, the tension needs to be adjusted as well. Additionally, if the hinge looks like it is overextended or bent, it may be the wrong type of hinge for the door. In this case, it is best to replace the hinge with a more appropriate type.

Identifying the Right Hinge Type

Having successfully reattached the hinge, the next step is to identify the right hinge type. To do this, examine the existing hinge and look for the manufacturer’s name or logo. Depending on the type of hinge, there could also be a number or code for further reference. In some cases, the code is stamped directly onto the metal of the hinge.

If it is not possible to identify the type of hinge, other methods can be used to assess the size and shape of the hinge. Measure the length and width of the hinge, and take note of any particular shapes or features. An experienced handyman or professional technician may also be able to identify the hinge type based on the description.

Once the type of hinge is identified, it is possible to purchase a new replacement of the same type. With the right part in hand, the homeowner is ready to adjust the tension and test the hinge. With the proper adjustments, the door should now be able to swing smoothly and securely.

Finish the Project

To finish the project, it is essential to ensure that all messes have been cleaned up, that any leaks have been identified and addressed, and that all project documentation is complete and up-to-date. Every step is equally important in the completion of the project, and should be carried out with a friendly and thorough attitude. With all of these pieces in place, the project can be confidently completed.

Clean Up

Now that the hinges have been adjusted, the only thing left to do is finish the project. The first step is to clean up the area. All tools and materials that have been used should be gathered, organized, and stored away. Any debris that has accumulated should be swept away. Any spills should be wiped off the floor or other surfaces, and any stains should be washed away. A soft cloth should be used for this purpose, and the area should be left in the same condition it was found. After cleaning, the space should be inspected to ensure that everything is in order.

Check for Leaks

Having successfully adjusted the hinge, the next step is to check for leaks to ensure that the project is complete. Checking for leaks is a simple yet integral part of the process, as it confirms that the water pressure is not exceeding the limit of the pipe connections.

To check for leaks, the area must be thoroughly inspected to ensure that the connections between the pipes and the valve, and the pipes and the hinge, are airtight. If any part of the connection is not sealed properly, water will leak from the affected area. To prevent this, a special sealant can be applied to the gap between the connections. Once the sealant has dried, the area should be tested by running water through the pipes.

Using a flashlight, the area should be inspected for any signs of water seeping from the connections. If water is found, the sealant needs to be reapplied until no water is present. Once the connections have been checked and confirmed to be leak-free, the project can be considered complete.

Documentation

Now that the hinge has been adjusted to create a tight seal, the last step in the project is documentation. To begin, it’s important to take a step back and take a look at the entire project. Documentation provides an opportunity to do a thorough assessment of the work and make any last-minute adjustments.

Careful documentation acts as a roadmap, allowing future technicians to easily follow the steps taken to create the successful seal. First, take pictures of the project from various angles, making sure to capture the entire scope of the work. Next, take detailed notes, including the tools used, the parts needed, and the steps taken to adjust the hinge.

Finally, document any tips or tricks that could be helpful for future technicians. The more detailed the notes, the easier it will be for someone who may not have been present throughout the project to understand the work that was completed. Documentation is an important part of any successful project, so take the time to ensure all the details are accurately captured.

Check Your Work

Testing the door ensures it opens and closes properly. Making any necessary adjustments, such as tightening screws, ensures it functions optimally. Finally, editing the work ensures it is aesthetically pleasing and ready for use.

Test the Door

Having completed the project, it is now time to test the door. With a steady hand, grasp the handle and give the door a firm pull; the hinges should sound with a sturdy creak, indicating a secure fit. If the door swings open too easily, it may be time to consider adding another hinge or two. Tighten the screws until the door is secure and test again. If the door is difficult to open, the hinges may be too tight and should be loosened to allow for a smoother swing.

When testing the door, look for any signs of warping or splitting. If any of these are present, make the necessary adjustments and test again. Close the door multiple times to ensure the fit is secure and consistent. If there is a gap between the door and the frame, make sure there are no drafts entering the room. If a draft is present, apply additional weatherstripping to the door frame. Lastly, check all the screws and hinges to ensure they are properly tightened and secured.

Make Adjustments as Needed

Now that you have finished the project, it is important to check that the door is working properly. Making adjustments as needed is a key part of this process. To begin, you will want to open and close the door several times to test how it is working. If the door is not closing properly, you may need to adjust the hinges. This can be done by loosening or tightening the screws that hold the hinge in place.

After the adjustments have been made, you should test the door again. If the door is still not closing correctly, you may need to switch out the old hinges and replace them with new ones. If the door is now functioning correctly, you can move on to the next step in the process.

Finally, you will want to make sure that everything is neat and tidy. This includes wiping down the door and giving it a fresh coat of paint. Additionally, you may want to add extra decorations such as a door handle or wreath to give the door a more inviting look. Once all of the adjustments have been made, the door should be ready to use.

Editing

The final step before declaring the project finished is to review the entire piece and make any necessary edits. As you examine each part of the construction, look for any details that may be out of place or need to be adjusted. Make any changes that are needed to ensure the project looks as intended.

The editing process requires an eye for detail. Small details can make a big difference in the final product. Take time to review the entire door, paying close attention to the corners, edges, and surfaces. If any pieces of wood need to be sanded down or replaced, take care of them now. Ensure that the colors of the door match the colors of the trim, and that the door fits snugly in the frame.

Once all of the necessary changes have been made, the project is complete. Stand back and admire your work. You have just created something beautiful and unique that will stand the test of time. Congratulations!

Conclusion

The process of hiding door hinges can be completed in a matter of minutes with the right supplies and know-how. With the right tools on-hand and following the steps outlined, anyone can successfully conceal their hinges. The result is a neat, clean, polished look that will make the entryway to your home look professional and attractive.

The satisfaction of a job well done is yours as you admire the finished project, having successfully hidden your door hinges. Your guests will be impressed with the beautiful entryway that hides the unsightly hinges and allows the beauty of the door itself to shine through.