Windows, Doors & Ironmongery · Accessories & Add-ons
Door Hinges & Closers: What Else You'll Need
By the Nest & Yard editorial teamUpdated 2026-08-092 min read
Our pick: the Burg-Wächter Spring Loaded Adjustable Auto Closing Door Closer, White — the best Door Hinges & Closers we tested, from £11.99.
Fitting a new door hinge or closer is just the first step – ensuring it operates smoothly and safely often requires a few supplementary items that many shoppers overlook when initial budgeting. This guide explores the accessories and components frequently needed alongside door hinges and closers, from cable management solutions to protective cases and potentially replacement parts. Considering these additional elements will help guarantee your door’s proper function and longevity, aligning with your overall project requirements.
See the full range in Door Hinges & Closers.
#1 Pick
Burg-Wächter Spring Loaded Adjustable Auto Closing Door Closer, White- Steel
£11.99
Pros
- One of the best-selling door closers on Amazon UK with thousands of reviews
- Spring tension is adjustable to suit different door weights
- Compact white housing blends in on light-coloured doors
Cons
- Basic spring design is noisier than a hydraulic overhead closer
#2 Pick
Onarway Automatic Door Closer, Adjustable Spring Hydraulic, Size 3, Aluminium Alloy, EN1154 Certified- Aluminium
£23.19
Pros
- EN1154 certified for commercial and domestic fire door use
- Adjustable closing speed suits doors from 43-58kg
- Large review base backs up its reliability over time
Cons
- Surface-mounted arm is bulkier than a concealed jamb closer
#3 Pick
Door Hinge 3" 75mm Ball Bearing Hinges Satin Chrome Suit Internal Doors Pair- Steel
£5.20
Pros
- Ball-bearing action gives smoother, quieter operation than plain washered hinges
- Standard 75mm (3") size fits the vast majority of UK internal doors
- Satin chrome finish suits most modern door furniture
Cons
- Sold as a pair, so heavier fire doors may need a third hinge
FAQ
What's usually included in a standard door hinge kit?
Most kits contain the hinges themselves, often with screws for attaching them to the door and the frame. However, they rarely include fixings for adjusting the door’s movement or filling any gaps around the doorframe – these are typically sold separately.
I've noticed my new doors stick when closed; what do I need?
You'll likely require a door closer (also known as a furniture door stop) to prevent the door from slamming and causing friction. These come in various sizes and styles, so measure your door and frame carefully before purchasing.
What kind of screws are generally supplied with hinges, and should I replace them?
The screws provided are often small and made of a softer metal like brass or zinc; these can easily strip when tightening. It’s advisable to purchase a pack of stainless steel wood screws designed for this purpose to ensure a secure fit.
Do I need shims to level my doors?
Yes, shims (thin plastic wedges) are frequently required to adjust the height and alignment of your door. They're used between the hinge plate and the frame to fine-tune the door’s position and prevent it from rubbing.
What is a ‘door bead’ or ‘gap filler’, and when do I need one?
A door bead is a flexible sealant designed to fill gaps around the doorframe, preventing drafts and improving the door's seal. You’ll typically need this if there are noticeable gaps between your door and frame.
My doors won’t close properly; could that be the hinge itself?
While hinge malfunctions are rare, ensure the hinge is correctly oriented – some hinges have a specific ‘top’ and ‘bottom’. Also, check for obstructions preventing smooth movement.
Are there different types of door closers? What's the difference?
Door closers vary based on their operation; you can find self-closing models (using spring tension) or adjustable closers that allow you to control the closing speed and force.
I’ve stripped the screws in my hinge fixing plates. What should I do?
You'll need a larger diameter screw, typically a wood anchor with a screw, to re-secure the hinge plate. Choose an appropriate size for your door frame material – solid oak or softwood will require different fixings.
Do I need anything to protect the doorframe when installing hinges?
Protecting the paint on your doorframe is crucial; use masking tape around the hinge fixing area and consider using a felt pad under the hinge plate to prevent scratching.
What tools will I need beyond a screwdriver for fitting door hinges and closers?
You’ll likely require a measuring tape, a level, a hammer (for tapping shims), and potentially a rubber mallet – having these on hand makes installation much smoother.
In depth
When considering the purchase of door hinges and closers – whether for interior doors, external access, or even specialist applications like wardrobes – it’s vital to recognise that the initial product listing often focuses solely on the mechanism itself. However, a successful installation and long-term performance rely heavily on accompanying accessories and consumables that are frequently overlooked during the initial assessment. These additions contribute significantly to smooth operation, longevity, and overall satisfaction with the installed hardware.
Firstly, consider lubrication. The moving parts of hinges – pivots, pins, and even the strike plate area – are prone to friction over time, leading to increased noise and eventual wear and tear. A high-quality silicone lubricant designed for metal applications is essential. These lubricants won’t gum up or attract dust like traditional greases, ensuring a consistently quiet and efficient operation of the door. It's also wise to factor in a small supply of microfibre cloths for immediate wipe-down after installation and regular maintenance.
Secondly, look at surface protection. Whether installing on delicate wood, painted surfaces, or even tiled areas, protecting these from scratches and damage during the fitting process is paramount. A set of felt pads – available in various sizes – will safeguard both the door frame and the door itself from minor abrasions caused by tools or installation hardware. These are particularly important for heavier doors requiring more robust hinges.
Then there's the area around the strike plate, where friction is a significant contributor to hinge wear. A small tube of silicone-based lubricant specifically formulated for strike plates can dramatically reduce this friction point, extending the life of the hinges considerably. Furthermore, consider the thickness and material of the strike plate itself – thicker plates offer greater resistance to wear.
Don’t forget about adjustment tools. Many hinges, particularly those designed for heavier doors or requiring precise alignment, include adjustable screws or mechanisms. Having a set of small, precision screwdrivers (both flathead and Phillips head) is vital for making these adjustments accurately. A small allen key set can also be invaluable if the hinges utilise cam-lock fittings.
Finally, think about long-term maintenance. Regularly checking the tightness of hinge screws – even on seemingly secure installations – is crucial to prevent loosening and potential door misalignment. Keep a small selection of replacement screws readily available in various sizes to accommodate different hinge types and installation requirements. A magnetic hinge screw holder can be an incredibly useful addition for keeping track of these fasteners during maintenance or repair work.
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-08-09.