How to Hang an Interior Door – Step-by-Step Guide for Flush and Rebated Doors

Hanging an interior door may seem like a job for professionals, but with the right tools and a clear plan, it's a satisfying DIY task you can tackle yourself. Whether you're working with a standard flush door or a rebated door, precision and preparation are key.

In this blog, we'll show you how to properly hang an interior door from scratch using essential Batavia tools—ensuring a perfect fit, smooth swing, and long-lasting results.

Types of Interior Doors You Might Be Hanging

There are two main types of doors for interior use:

• Flush (standard) doors – A flat, non-rebated door that fits completely within the frame
• Rebated (or lip) doors – These have a stepped edge and partially overlap the frame, often pre-fitted with hinges

Understanding which type you're working with will determine how you mount the hinges and align the handle.

Tools You'll Need

• Batavia multi-tool – For cutting hinge recesses or trimming edges
• Cordless drill/driver – For installing hinges and hardware
• Chisel and hammer – For final hinge adjustments (if needed)
• Tape measure, pencil, screwdriver, wedges or spacers

Batavia’s cordless and compact tools are perfect for precision door-fitting work—even in tight hallways.

Step 1: Measure and Mark Hinge Positions

• Mark hinge locations on the door (typically 10–20 cm from top and bottom, and a third hinge in the middle for heavy doors)
• Transfer these positions to the door frame
• Mark the outline of each hinge

Step 2: Cut Recesses for the Hinges

• Use a Batavia multi-tool with a plunge or detail blade to cut hinge recesses
• Depth should match the thickness of the hinge leaf
• Smooth the recess with a chisel if needed

This ensures the hinges sit flush, allowing the door to close cleanly.

Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes and Install Hinges

• Drill small pilot holes for each hinge screw to prevent wood splitting
• Screw the hinges into the door
• Use quality screws for strength and stability

Step 4: Position and Hang the Door

• Use wedges or spacers to lift the door into the frame
• Align the hinges with their positions on the frame
• Attach the hinges to the frame using a cordless drill
• Check for even gaps around the door—adjust if necessary
• For rebated doors, ensure the overlap sits correctly before tightening screws

Step 5: Check for Smooth Movement

• Open and close the door to test clearance and alignment
• Check gaps at the top, bottom, and sides
• Adjust hinges or sand edges slightly if the door sticks

Step 6: Install Handle and Latch

• Measure and mark the position of the handle
• Drill the latch hole and recess
• Insert and screw in the latch and handle
• Fit the strike plate to the door frame

A Batavia multi-tool can also be used for trimming around lock plates or making fine adjustments.

Tips for Hanging a Door Like a Pro

• ✅ Check the frame for squareness before starting
• ✅ Use long screws for the top hinge to improve durability
• ✅ Sand or plane the bottom of the door if it scrapes the floor
• ✅ Always paint or seal edges before installing in humid rooms

Why Batavia Tools Make the Difference

• Multi-tools for recess cutting and precision adjustments
• Cordless drills for quick, accurate screw placement
• Laser levels for perfect door alignment
• Ergonomic, compact design for comfort during longer installs

Upgrade your interiors with perfectly hung doors. Flush or rebated, Batavia gives you the control and confidence to handle it yourself—accurately and efficiently.