To install hinges flush, measure and mark hinge placement, trace the hinge, and create a shallow mortise using a chisel or router. Pre-drill screw holes, attach the hinge to the door, then mount the door to the frame. Fixed pin hinges install the same way. Hinges can be installed without a router using only a chisel. Flush installation ensures smooth door movement and prevents binding.

Why Flush Hinges Matter

Properly installed flush hinges ensure that:

• The door opens and closes smoothly

• There’s no rubbing against the frame

• The hinge sits level with the timber surface

• Your door maintains correct alignment over time

• The aesthetic finish looks clean and professional

Flush installation is especially important when working with concealed hinges, butt hinges, soft-close hinges, or commercial-grade hardware.

How to Install Hinges Flush (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Mark Your Hinge Placement

Measure and mark:

• Top hinge: 125–175mm from the top of the door

• Bottom hinge: 175–250mm from the bottom

• Add a third hinge if using heavier doors or commercial hardware

Use a combination square for straight, accurate hinge outlines.

Step 2: Trace the Hinge onto the Door

Place the hinge against your markings and trace around it with a pencil.
This outline will guide your mortise depth and help ensure the hinge sits perfectly flush.

Pro Tip: Fast Hinge products come with industry-standard sizing, making layout faster and more accurate.

Step 3: Create a Mortise for the Hinge

Use one of the following tools:

• Chisel

• Router

• Hinge jig

Carefully remove timber inside the traced area to the same thickness as the hinge leaf.

The hinge should sit:

• Flush, not proud

• Level, with no rocking

• Tight, but not forced

This ensures a seamless installation and prevents the door from binding.

Step 4: Pre-drill Your Screw Holes

Place the hinge in the mortise and mark each screw hole.
Pre-drilling reduces:

• Splitting

• Misalignment

• Stripped screws

If you’re installing a stainless steel or brass hinge from Fast Hinge, use high-quality drill bits to ensure clean, precise holes.

Step 5: Fasten the Hinges Securely

Use the screws provided with your hinge to ensure the best fit and durability. Tighten them evenly and avoid over-driving, which can distort the hinge alignment.

Step 6: Attach the Door to the Frame

Lift the door into position and secure the top hinge first, then work your way down.
Once all hinges are fixed:

• Test the door swing

• Check for rubbing or misalignment

• Adjust screws if needed

A correctly installed flush hinge gives you a smooth, balanced operation with long-lasting performance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Cutting the mortise too deep

• Using low-quality screws or hinges

• Misaligning hinge positions between door and frame

• Skipping pre-drilling

• Mixing hinge types or sizes

Fast Hinge hardware is engineered to reduce installation errors and provide a perfect flush finish.

Recommended Hinges for Flush Installation

Fast Hinge offers a wide range of hinge types ideal for flush mounting, including:

• Butt hinges

• Concealed hinges

• Heavy-duty commercial hinges

• Soft-close hinges

Each hinge is engineered for precision fitting and long-term reliability across residential and commercial applications.

Need Quality Hinges for Your Project?

Fast Hinge supplies durable, high-precision hinges made for Australian standards. Whether you’re upgrading internal doors or installing commercial hardware, we have hinge solutions that make flush installation simple and reliable.

FAQs About Installing Hinges Flush

To install hinges flush, mark your hinge positions, trace the hinge leaf, and cut a shallow mortise so the hinge sits level with the timber surface. Pre-drill your screw holes and attach the hinge to the door before fastening it to the frame. This method ensures smooth door operation and prevents rubbing or sagging.

What is the proper way to install a hinge?

The proper way to install a hinge involves marking the hinge position, cutting a shallow mortise so the hinge sits flush, pre-drilling screw holes, and fastening the hinge securely to both the door and the frame. Ensuring the hinge sits level and flush prevents binding and misalignment.

Do you install door hinges first or frame?

You install hinges on the door first, then attach the door to the frame. This ensures accurate alignment and makes it easier to position the door correctly before fastening it to the jamb.

How to install fixed pin hinges?

Fixed pin hinges are installed the same way as standard hinges:

1. Mark and mortise the hinge location.

2. Pre-drill screw holes.

3. Fasten hinge leaves to the door and frame.
   Because the pin cannot be removed, ensure the hinge orientation is correct before securing.

How to install hinges without a router?

You can install hinges without a router by using a sharp chisel to create a shallow mortise. Score the outline, tap lightly to remove small wood layers, and refine until the hinge sits perfectly flush.