When your door isn’t closing properly or the latch isn’t catching, it’s often due to misaligned hardware. Fortunately, the clever “lipstick trick” provides a straightforward and cost-effective way to tackle these problems.
This simple method involves using lipstick to highlight areas of misalignment, making it easier to adjust your door hardware to solve them. Our guide explains how to use the lipstick trick to ensure your door operates smoothly and securely.
Common Door Hardware Alignment Issues
When properly aligned, a door should open and close smoothly and latch securely. Misaligned hardware can lead to various issues, including difficulty in closing the door, reduced security, and potential damage to the door or frame over time.
- Misaligned strike plates: One of the most common alignment issues occurs when the strike plate on the door jamb doesn’t align correctly with the latch or deadbolt. This misalignment can prevent the door from latching properly or make it difficult to lock it securely. Sometimes, you may notice that the latch doesn’t fully extend into the strike plate, leaving the door vulnerable to forced entry.
- Improperly installed locksets: Improperly installed locksets can cause alignment problems, such as an off-center latch or deadbolt or a lockset installed at the wrong height. These issues can make the door difficult to operate and compromise its security.
- Warped door frames: Door frames can warp over time due to temperature, humidity, or changes in house settling. A warped frame can throw off the alignment of the entire door, including its hardware. This can result in gaps between the door and frame, making it challenging to close the door properly or engage the locking mechanism.
The “lipstick trick” can help you identify all of these issues.
Tools and Materials Needed for the Lipstick Trick
You’ll need the following tools to perform the lipstick trick and make any necessary adjustments to your door:
- Chisel
- Hammer
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips head)
- Utility knife
Types of Marking Substances
The key to the lipstick trick is using a substance that will leave a clear mark on the door jamb. We recommend choosing a marking substance that contrasts well with the color of your door jamb for the best visibility. Below are options for your marking substance:
- Lipstick (bright red works best)
- Chalk
- Correction fluid (white-out)
- Dry erase marker
- Painter’s tape
Step-by-Step Guide to the Lipstick Trick
Follow the steps below to complete the lipstick trick and realign your door hardware.
Step 1: Prepare the Door and Hardware
Start by opening the door and examining the existing hardware. If installing new hardware, make sure it’s in place before proceeding. For existing hardware, check that all screws are tight and the lockset is functioning properly.
Step 2: Apply the Marking Substance
First, open the door and rub the lipstick or marking substance onto the latch or deadbolt. Apply a generous amount to the end of the latch or deadbolt that contacts the strike plate.
Step 3: Identify the Correct Alignment
Turn the knob to retract the latch, close the door, then release the knob just enough for the latch to ‘kiss’ the jamb. ” This action will leave an imprint on the door jamb, showing exactly where the latch or deadbolt makes contact.
Step 4: Make the Necessary Adjustments
Examine the mark left on the door jamb. If it’s not centered within the existing strike plate, you’ll need to make one of the following adjustments:
- If the mark is above the strike plate hole, you may need to raise the latch by tightening the top hinge.
- If the mark is below, lower the latch by adjusting the bottom hinge.
- If the latch misses the hole by a significant margin, you may need to reposition the strike plate or enlarge its hole to accommodate the latch properly
Use your pencil to mark the correct position based on the lipstick imprint, then use your chisel and hammer to adjust the mortise as needed.
Alternative Methods for Door Hardware Alignment
While the lipstick trick is effective, there are other methods you can use to align door hardware:
- Door hinge marker: A door hinge marker is a specialized tool designed for marking hinge locations, but also works for strike plates. This tool provides a precise method for transferring the position of the latch or deadbolt to the door jamb, allowing for accurate placement of the strike plate.
- Flashlight method: Shine a flashlight through the gap between the door and the frame while closing it slowly. Observe where light is visible or blocked to identify uneven gaps, which can indicate misalignment. This method helps spot gaps and identify uneven contact points.
- Paper test: Place a strip of paper between the door and the frame at the latch area, then close the door. Gently pull the paper. If the paper slides out easily, it indicates a misalignment. If it’s hard to pull out, the alignment might be correct. This method helps detect uneven pressure or misalignment at specific points.
- Square and level check: Use a carpenter’s square and a level to check if the door and frame are plumb and square. This is a straightforward way to diagnose more significant alignment problems caused by an uneven door or frame.
Troubleshooting Door Alignment Problems
Sometimes, door alignment issues extend beyond just the hardware. Here are some common problems and how to address them.
Door Sagging
A sagging door can cause misalignment of the latch and strike plate. To fix a sagging door, you may need to tighten or replace the hinges. In some cases, you might need to add a longer screw to the top hinge to anchor it more securely to the wall studs.
Loose Hinges
Loose hinges shift the door and throw off hardware alignment. To fix loose hinges, tighten all hinge screws and replace any stripped screws. If screw holes enlarge, fill them with wood filler or toothpicks and wood glue, then reinsert the screws.
Warped Doors
A warped door can be challenging to align. Minor door warping can sometimes be corrected by adjusting the hinges. For more severe cases, you may need to plane the door or, in extreme situations, replace the door entirely.
Additional Tips for Effective Door Hardware Alignment
To guarantee your door hardware stays aligned, use these practical tips:
- Regular inspection: Periodically check your door hardware for signs of wear or movement. Early detection can prevent more significant problems.
- Invest in quality hardware: Use high-quality locksets, strike plates, and hinges to reduce the likelihood of misalignment or damage and minimize the need for frequent adjustments.
- Handle your door with care. Avoid slamming doors or using excessive force when opening or closing them. Gentle operation helps maintain alignment and prolongs the life of your doors and hardware.
Maintaining Properly Aligned Door Hardware
Once you’ve achieved proper alignment, regular maintenance can help keep your doors functioning smoothly:
- Address any sticking or misalignment issues promptly to prevent further damage.
- Clean and lubricate moving parts of the lockset annually.
- Inspect weather stripping and replace it if worn to prevent moisture damage.
- Periodically check and tighten all screws on hinges, locksets, and strike plates.
When To Hire a Professional
While homeowners with DIY methods can resolve many door alignment issues, there are situations where hiring a professional locksmith or carpenter is advisable. If you’re uncomfortable working with tools, if the door or frame shows significant damage or warping, or if you’ve tried multiple DIY solutions without success, professional help is recommended. In addition, if the door is part of a complex security system, it’s best to consult an expert to make sure everything functions correctly.
