How to Adjust a Swing Door

Written By
Thomas West
Thomas West
Published: Sep 12, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

This is especially handy when you have your hands full and want the kitchen door to close behind you. A swinging door that has too little tension may not close properly, while one that has too much tension may cause injury to children or pets as it swings closed.

  1. Locate the spring-loaded hinge access plates at the bottom of the door at its pivot point. Remove the retaining screws from the plates with a Phillip screwdriver. Remove the plates from the door and place them aside.

  2. Locate the adjustment screw at the end of the large spring mounted in the hinge assembly.

  3. Twist the adjustment screw in a counterclockwise direction one full turn to lessen the spring tension on the door. Turn the screw in a clockwise direction to increase the spring tension.

  4. Test the operation of the door by opening it fully and then releasing it. Note that the door should fully close on its own.

  5. Turn the adjustment screw as needed until the door has just enough tension to close on its own without swinging too quickly or with too much force.

  6. Replace the access plates at the bottom of the door and tighten the retaining screws with a Phillips screwdriver.

The Drip Cap

  • A swinging door may be the perfect solution to use between your kitchen and dining room.
  • When released, the door swings shut automatically.
  • Turn the adjustment screw as needed until the door has just enough tension to close on its own without swinging too quickly or with too much force.
  • Replace the access plates at the bottom of the door and tighten the retaining screws with a Phillips screwdriver.
Thomas West

Thomas West has been writing professionally since 2002. He earned his M.A. in English at Syracuse University, where he is also pursuing his Ph.D.

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