How to Fix a Door Hinge That Is Stripped

A stripped door hinge means the screw holes in the wood have worn out and can no longer grip the screws. The hinge feels loose, the door sags, and no amount of tightening helps. Here's how to fix it properly.

What Does "Stripped" Mean?

When a hinge is "stripped," the wood fibers around the screw holes have been compressed or torn away. The screws spin freely without biting into anything. This is extremely common on high-traffic doors and older homes.

Method 1: Toothpick and Wood Glue (Best for Most Cases)

This is the go-to fix for stripped hinge holes — it's free, fast, and incredibly effective.

1. Remove the hinge screws and the hinge leaf
2. Dip several wooden toothpicks in wood glue
3. Pack them tightly into the stripped hole
4. Break off flush with the wood surface
5. Wipe away excess glue
6. Let cure for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results)
7. Re-drive the original screws — they'll grip the new wood fibers firmly

Method 2: Use Longer Screws

Replace the standard 3/4" hinge screws with 3" screws. These reach through the door casing and into the structural wall stud, bypassing the stripped area entirely. This is the strongest long-term fix.

Tip: Use at least one 3" screw per hinge leaf for a dramatic improvement in holding strength.

Method 3: Wood Filler or Epoxy

For larger stripped areas, fill the hole with wood filler or two-part epoxy. Let it cure fully (follow product instructions), then drill a pilot hole and drive the screw in. Epoxy is stronger than wood filler for this application.

Method 4: Hinge Shims

If the hinge mortise has worn and the hinge is sitting loose in it, add a shim behind the hinge leaf to take up the slack and restore proper alignment.

• Door Hinge Shims 10-Pack (0.040") — precise thickness, easy to trim to size

Method 5: Replace the Hinge with a Larger One

If the mortise area is severely damaged, install a larger hinge that covers fresh wood. A 4" hinge on a door that previously had 3.5" hinges will reach undamaged wood for the new screws.

• Amazon Basics Self-Closing Door Hinge 3.5" — standard replacement with hardware included

Which Method Should You Use?

• 1–2 stripped screws → toothpick method (fastest, free)
• All screws stripped → longer 3" screws into the stud
• Mortise area damaged → epoxy fill + pilot hole
• Severe damage → larger replacement hinge

Prevention

• Always use 3" screws when hanging doors initially
• Don't overtighten hinge screws — snug is enough
• Check and retighten hinge screws annually
• Avoid slamming doors, which accelerates stripping