How to fix a door hinge that came out of the door frame?

Here's how to fix a door hinge torn from a door frame, step-by-step:

■Tools & Materials Needed

▸Wood glue or epoxy
▸Wood filler/sticks (toothpicks, golf tees, wooden matches)
▸Clamp or heavy object
▸Drill with 1/8" bit
▸Hammer
▸Chisel (optional)
▸New screws (longer/thicker than original)
▸Sandpaper

■Step-by-Step Repair

▸Remove Door & Hinge

Secure door: Prop it upright with wood blocks.
Detach hinge: Unscrew from door and frame.

▸Assess Damage

Minor pull-out: Screw holes stripped but wood intact.
Severe damage: Splintered/crumbled wood around holes.

▸Clean & Prep Holes

Scrape out debris, sawdust, or old filler.
Sand rough edges inside holes.

▸Fill Stripped Holes

Quick fix (minor damage):
Pack holes with wood glue + toothpicks/golf tees.
Hammer in until tight, snap off excess flush.
Strong fix (major damage):
Drill holes slightly wider.
Inject epoxy wood filler, let cure fully.

▸Reinforce the Frame (Critical!)

Drill pilot holes: Through filled material (prevents splitting).
Use longer screws (minimum 3"): Must bite into door frame’s structural wood, not just trim.

▸Reattach Hinge

Align hinge on original marks.
Hand-tighten screws first – ensure no misalignment.
Tighten fully once positioned.

▸Test & Adjust

Hang door, check for smooth swing.
If door sags, add a third hinge midway for extra support.