Step 1: Inspect the Frame and Door
1. Verify the hollow metal frame is plumb, level, and securely anchored to the wall or rough opening.
2. Inspect all three hinge pockets on the frame to confirm they are free of debris, paint buildup, or shipping damage.
3. Confirm the door slab dimensions match the frame opening, accounting for standard gap clearances.
4. Verify that hinge mortises on the door edge are pre-machined and align with the frame hinge pockets.
5. Ensure all three hinges are attached to the door slab with hinge leaves folded in (closed position).
Step 2: Prepare the Hinges
1. Confirm all three hinge leaves on the door are folded inward, flat against the door edge.
2. This is critical: if any hinge leaf is folded outward when the center hinge is installed first, the remaining hinges cannot be engaged with the frame pockets.
3. Verify hinge pin orientation is correct (pins pointing upward on standard-swing doors).
Step 3: Lift and Position the Door
1. With two installers, lift the door slab and position it in the frame opening.
2. Tilt the door slightly toward the hinge jamb to align the center hinge leaf with the center hinge pocket on the frame.
3. One installer holds the door in position while the second installer drives the hinge screws.
Step 4: Install the Center Hinge First
1. Always begin with the center hinge. This is the most critical sequencing rule for commercial door installation.
2. Align the center hinge leaf with the center hinge pocket on the frame.
3. Drive two hinge screws using the impact driver with a #3 Phillips bit to temporarily secure the door.
4. The center hinge bears the initial load and allows the door to pivot freely so the top and bottom hinges can be aligned.
Step 5: Install the Top and Bottom Hinges
1. With the door supported by the center hinge, align the top hinge leaf with the top hinge pocket.
2. Drive two hinge screws into the top hinge to secure it.
3. Repeat for the bottom hinge, aligning the leaf with the bottom hinge pocket and driving two screws.
4. Return to each hinge and install all remaining hinge screws so every hinge has a full complement of fasteners.
Step 6: Close the Door and Check Alignment
1. Close the door fully into the frame.
2. Visually inspect the gap between the door and the frame on all four sides: hinge jamb, strike jamb, head, and bottom.
3. The gap should be uniform — typically 1/8 inch on the head and both jambs.
4. If the gap is wider at the bottom of the strike side and tighter at the top (or vice versa), proceed to the troubleshooting section below for gap adjustment.
Step 7: Final Verification
1. Open and close the door several times to confirm smooth operation without binding or dragging.
2. Verify all hinge screws are fully seated and tight.
3. Check that the door latches properly in the strike pocket (if strike hardware is installed).
4. Confirm the door self-closes evenly if a door closer is specified.
