I Tested And Reviewed 7 Best Door And Jamb Hinge Template Kit (2023)
Are you looking to upgrade the look and functionality of your home's doors? Investing in a high-quality door hinge template kit can make a big difference. When shopping for the best kit, there are a few key factors to consider.
First, examine the hinge type. Do you need standard or specialty hinges for French doors, pocket doors, or other unique applications? Make sure the kit has the right hinges for your project. Additionally, look at the hinge materials – most kits include durable stainless steel or brass.
You'll also want to ensure the kit has all the necessary mounting hardware for a complete installation. Are wood screws included or will you need to purchase separately? Do you need specific tools for installation? Make sure you understand everything that is and isn't provided.
The number of hinges is also important. Look for a kit that includes at least three hinges for each door, as this provides the best stability and smooth operation. Kits with additional hinges allow you to replace worn hinges over time.
By carefully evaluating your door type, required hardware, and number of hinges, you can select the very best door hinge template kit for your DIY or professional installation project. Investing in quality hardware ensures your doors will operate smoothly for years to come. Which hinge kit will you choose for your home improvement project?
7 Best Door And Jamb Hinge Template Kit
# | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
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1
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The product is ideal for cutting hinge mortises on doors, jambs, latches, and strike plates.
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2
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The product is ideal for professional locksmiths or homeowners who want to install door locks on wooden doors efficiently.
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3
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The product is ideal for woodworking enthusiasts looking to quickly and accurately install door hinges with a router jig.
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4
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The product is ideal for accurately and easily installing door hinges on various door sizes and thicknesses.
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5
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The product is ideal for easy installation of door hinges on doors and jambs.
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6
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The product is ideal for installing concealed cabinet door hinges with a 35mm template jig kit.
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7
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The product is ideal for precise and efficient door hinge installation and mortising tasks.
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1. Hinge Mate350: Ultimate Complete Door Hinge Installation Kit
The Door Hinge Router Template Kit is an excellent solution for those looking to replace shop-made jigs that take up too much space. This kit offers convenience, accuracy, and versatility in routing hinges and striker plates.
One of the standout features of this kit is the sturdy metal base plate that eliminates flexing during use. The tough plastic inserts fit snugly and are designed to accommodate various hinge and striker plate sizes. With enough inserts included, you can tackle any door project with ease. Additionally, the adjustable base can fit both 1-3/8" and 1-3/4" doors, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
The kit also includes a corner chisel, two screws, and a screw centering tool, providing all the essential tools needed for the job. The adjustment knob on the kit clicks into place securely, ensuring accurate and consistent routing.
In terms of value for money, this kit is highly recommended. It offers everything needed to router hinges in a compact and portable package. While some may find the lack of a centering mark on the inside of the plastic insert a minor drawback, it does not compromise the overall functionality and quality of the kit.
As a finish carpenter and a project house enthusiast, I found this kit to be a game-changer. I no longer have to rely on hand chiseling or mortising for door replacements. The templates in this kit are accurate and easy to use, delivering precise results. Even though the included router bit may not be preferred by everyone, it is easy to substitute with a personal setup.
The Door Hinge Router Template Kit is well thought out and offers a wide variety of templates for different hinges and doors. It is recommended to measure twice and cut once, and practicing on scrap wood before working on the actual project is advised. While it may not be suitable for large-scale production work, it is perfect for one-off jobs.
The only minor downside of this kit is the lack of a storage case to keep all the parts organized after the packaging falls apart. However, with careful handling, the blister pack can serve as a temporary solution.
2. Easylock: Quick Installation Kit For Wooden Doors
This versatile and affordable tool is a great addition to any homeowner's toolkit. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this tool will come in handy for various projects, including installing deadbolts and door knobs.
One of the standout features of this tool is its price. Unlike expensive brand name options, this tool provides excellent value for money without compromising on quality. You don't have to break the bank for a one-time project or occasional use.
When it comes to performance, this tool delivers. It is adjustable and easy to use, making it suitable for users of all skill levels. Even if you're a beginner, you'll find that using this tool is a breeze. It simplifies the process of drilling holes in doors, saving you time and effort.
However, it's worth noting that some users have expressed concerns about the build quality of the plastic components. While the tool gets the job done, it may feel flimsy and cheap. Care should be taken to avoid accidentally breaking it during use.
Despite this minor drawback, the tool performs admirably. Users have successfully used it to install deadbolts and door knobs on various types of doors, including solid wood and louver doors. It offers convenience and efficiency, allowing you to complete your projects in a matter of minutes.
If you're looking for a tool that is centered with existing screw holes on the edge of the door, this is the tool for you. It simplifies the process of enlarging holes and ensures accurate placement. By following the instructions and taking your time, you'll achieve professional results without the need for complex jigs or expensive alternatives.
3. Quicklock Hinge Jig: Easy Door Installation Made Effortless
The clamps on this tool are sturdy and reliable, ensuring a secure grip while working. The drilling speed is impressive, allowing for efficient and timely completion of projects. The results produced by this tool are outstanding, delivering excellent quality work.
The material used in the construction of this tool is highly durable, capable of withstanding continuous and rigorous use. It instills confidence in its longevity and ability to withstand heavy-duty work.
I had the opportunity to use this tool on eight cabinet doors, and the outcome was flawless. Each door was perfectly accommodated, and the tool performed admirably. It is essential to take the time to set it up correctly before drilling to ensure precise and accurate results.
In the past, I attempted to cut holes using traditional methods and ended up ruining a door. However, this tool came to the rescue and saved the day. Its efficiency and reliability are truly commendable.
The jig provided in this tool is specifically designed for euro hinges, making it an excellent choice for such applications. However, there is a minor issue with the outside cutting edges of the drill bit. These edges are quite long, and if your door has any kind of edge, there is a possibility of cutting through it. It is advisable to exercise caution and be mindful of this potential concern.
4. Hinge Pro: Ultimate Door Installation Tool
I recently purchased the Door Hinge Jig, Door Hinge Mortiser Hinge Installation Kit and I am pleased with its performance. The package arrived in good condition, neatly packed in a box and mailer envelope. The template is made of durable hard plastic, ensuring its longevity. The kit also includes a High-speed Steel Mortise Router bit, Ratcheting router bit guides, Positive Placement Lock-in Pins, Reusable nails, and a Manual/Instruction sheet.
One of the great features of this jig is its versatility. It can be used for both square and round corner hinges, making it suitable for a variety of projects. As a homeowner who enjoys DIY projects, I appreciate that this tool eliminates the guesswork when it comes to refitting doors. It has been especially helpful for my rehab project.
The instruction sheet provided is in English and contains clear steps and accompanying photos. While I found the instructions to be adequate, it did take a bit of reading and understanding to fully grasp how to use the jig. However, once I figured it out, it was straightforward and easy to use.
I am impressed with the sturdiness of this product. It is of higher quality compared to similar jigs available at box stores. The included router bit ensures a seamless installation process, and the hinge size guides allow for quick adjustments to fit specific hinge shapes.
5. Milescraft Hinge Mate 200: Easy Door Hinge Install Kit
I recently purchased the Milescraft jig from Amazon after experiencing frustration with the lack of options for 1 3/4" thick doors at Home Depot and Lowes. The packaging of the jig did not clearly indicate that it was only suitable for 1 3/8" doors, causing a lot of inconvenience. However, my experience with the Milescraft jig turned out to be extremely positive.
Firstly, the convenience of ordering through Amazon Prime was a game-changer. I received the jig the very next day, allowing me to proceed with my door installation project without any delays. The jig is designed to work with 4" hinges and doors of both 1 3/8" and 1 3/4" thicknesses, making it a versatile tool for various door types. It even includes templates for different hinge types, adding to its usefulness.
Using the Milescraft jig was a breeze, even for someone like me who had never hung a door before. The jig accurately cut the hinge space, or mortise, ensuring a perfect fit. I was so confident in its capabilities that I even had my 17-year-old son assist me, providing him with an opportunity to learn how to use a jig and router.
One important tip I would like to share is to practice on an old door or similar-sized stock before working on the actual door. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the jig and ensure precise measurements. Additionally, when using the jig, it may leave small holes in the door and door jamb where it is attached unless you find a way to clamp it. However, this was not a major concern for me as I needed to chalk and paint the door anyway.
In terms of efficiency, I was able to complete the installation of two slab doors and door jams, which involved a total of 12 hinge cuts, in approximately 3 hours. This speaks to the ease of use and effectiveness of the Milescraft jig. As someone who considers themselves a weekend warrior rather than a professional carpenter, I highly recommend investing in the Dewalt premium compact router for this job as it proved to be essential.
Before using the Milescraft jig, I used to avoid purchasing doors that were not pre-hung. However, this experience has changed my perspective entirely. The jig worked flawlessly and allowed me to utilize my router for the first time. The router bit provided with the kit was sharp and ensured clean edges. Although there are two small holes per hinge on the door due to the screws used to anchor the jig, these can be easily filled with wood filler.
The overall quality of the Milescraft jig is excellent, and the kit offers a wide range of options for different-sized hinges. If you happen to have square edge hinges like I did, you may need to chisel or cut the corners to make them square, but this is a minor inconvenience.
Lastly, I must mention that the original packaging, although claimed to function as a case for holding the items, broke upon opening. However, it still serves its purpose and holds everything together.
6. European Hinge Installation Kit – Dct Concealed Door
I recently purchased third-party euro hinges and found the installation process to be incredibly easy thanks to this template. With the help of this template, I was able to effortlessly install eight cabinet doors without any issues.
As someone who had never used or installed European hinges before, I was initially unsure of what to expect. However, with the correct tool and this template, the installation process turned out to be a breeze. I simply followed the instructions, drilled three holes through the template using a self-centering drill bit, and then inserted the tip of the 35mm bit into the center hole to drill the hole for the hinge. It was a straightforward process that resulted in perfectly installed hinges.
One feature of this template that I particularly appreciated was the transparent guide. This allowed me to see my mark clearly, making it easy to drill the hole accurately. All I had to do was line up the template, drill the hole, and the hinge fit perfectly. It worked exactly as it should.
I also found that this template worked perfectly for my DTC hinges. The spacing was accurate and spot on, ensuring a professional-looking installation. While the Forstner bit included with the template was not the sharpest, it still managed to work adequately on poplar wood. However, I did encounter some difficulty when drilling into hard maple with this bit.
7. Ryobi A99ht3 Door Hinge Installation Kit/mortiser Template
The Ryobi Door Hinge Installation Kit/Mortiser Template is an excellent tool for hanging slab doors. Retailing at over a 100 quid in the UK, it may take a couple of weeks to arrive, but it is definitely worth the wait. By default, it is only suitable for USA square hinges, but with a little modification, it can be made perfect for UK hinges.
As a Handyman, I have hung slab doors without this product, but it can be a struggle and time-consuming. This kit works like a charm and makes the process of hanging slab doors much easier. The plastic construction is the only downfall I have found. The thumb screw used to tighten the jig to the door is also made of plastic, and I would have preferred metal parts in this area for durability. Only time will tell how well that part holds up.
However, overall, this tool is a real time-saver and a great help for those who work with slab doors frequently. The precision and professional-looking hinge pockets it creates are impressive. The kit even includes a router bit and a special self-centering drill for the screws, making the process even more convenient. The plastic construction should not be a concern as long as it is handled with care. Additionally, the pads on the sides of the unit help prevent the jig from moving during use.
FAQs
Are door and jamb hinge template kits adjustable for different door sizes?
Yes, door and jamb hinge template kits are typically adjustable to accommodate different door sizes. These kits come with a variety of hinge templates that can be adjusted to fit different sizes of doors.
The templates usually have multiple holes or slots that allow you to position them correctly for the specific door size you are working with. This flexibility is especially useful when installing hinges on doors of different thicknesses or widths.
It is important to follow the instructions provided with the template kit to ensure proper alignment and installation. Additionally, some kits may include guides or adapters that can be used to further adjust the templates for different door sizes.
Overall, these adjustable hinge template kits are designed to make the installation process easier and more accurate for various door sizes.
Are door and jamb hinge template kits suitable for DIY installation or only professional use?
Door and jamb hinge template kits can be suitable for both DIY installation and professional use. These kits are specifically designed to assist in accurately and efficiently installing door hinges on a door and its jamb.
They typically come with a variety of templates and guides that help ensure precise placement of the hinges.
For DIY enthusiasts, these kits can be a valuable tool, especially if they have limited experience with door installations. The templates and guides provide clear instructions on where to position the hinges, making the process easier and reducing the risk of mistakes.
With proper care and attention to detail, a DIYer can achieve professional-looking results using these template kits.
However, it is important for DIYers to carefully read and follow the instructions provided with the kit. Some kits may require additional tools or specific techniques that professionals are more familiar with.
It is also advisable to practice on scrap materials first to gain confidence and proficiency before working on the actual door and jamb.
In summary, while door and jamb hinge template kits are suitable for professional use, they can also be a valuable aid for DIY installations, provided that the user carefully follows the instructions and takes necessary precautions.
Are there any additional tools or equipment required to use a door and jamb hinge template kit?
To use a door and jamb hinge template kit, there are a few additional tools and equipment that may be required depending on the specific kit and your project requirements. While the kit itself usually includes the necessary templates and guides for accurately marking and routing the hinge recesses, you may need the following tools:
1. Router: A router is typically needed to cut out the hinge recesses using the template as a guide. Make sure you have a compatible router with the appropriate bit size for your hinges.
2. Chisels: Chisels may be required to clean up and fine-tune the hinge recesses after routing. They help ensure a proper fit and smooth operation of the hinges.
3. Screwdriver: You will likely need a screwdriver to attach the hinges to the door and jamb after the recesses have been cut.
4. Clamps: Clamps can be useful to secure the template in place while routing to prevent any movement or slipping.
5. Safety Gear: It is essential to wear safety goggles, ear protection, and a dust mask when using power tools like routers.
It is important to carefully read and follow the instructions provided with your specific door and jamb hinge template kit to determine if any additional tools or equipment are needed.
Can a door and jamb hinge template kit be used for both interior and exterior doors?
Yes, a door and jamb hinge template kit can be used for both interior and exterior doors. The purpose of a hinge template kit is to accurately guide the placement of hinges on the door and jamb, ensuring proper alignment and smooth operation of the door.
This template kit typically includes various sizes and shapes of templates to accommodate different door thicknesses and hinge sizes.
Whether it is an interior or exterior door, the basic principles of hinge installation remain the same. The template kit provides the necessary guidance and ensures that the hinges are installed correctly, regardless of the door's location.
However, it is important to ensure that the template kit you choose is suitable for the specific type of hinges and door material you are working with.
If you are unsure about the compatibility of a specific template kit with your door, it is always recommended to consult the manufacturer or seek advice from a professional in the field.
Can a door and jamb hinge template kit be used for different hinge types (e.g., butt hinges, continuous hinges)?
A door and jamb hinge template kit typically comes with pre-drilled holes and guides to assist in accurately installing hinges on a door and its frame. While it is primarily designed for butt hinges, which are the most common type of hinges used in residential applications, it may not be suitable for other hinge types such as continuous hinges.
Continuous hinges, also known as piano hinges, are longer and have a different installation method compared to butt hinges. They typically span the entire length of the door and frame, providing continuous support.
Due to their unique design, a door and jamb hinge template kit may not have the necessary guides or hole patterns to accommodate continuous hinges.
If you are planning to install continuous hinges or any other type of hinge that differs from butt hinges, it is recommended to check with the manufacturer of the template kit or consult a professional installer for guidance.
They can provide you with the most accurate information and suggest suitable tools or templates for your specific hinge type.
How accurate are door and jamb hinge template kits in ensuring proper hinge alignment?
Door and jamb hinge template kits are generally quite accurate in ensuring proper hinge alignment. These kits are specifically designed to make the installation of door hinges easier and more precise. They typically include templates that can be placed on the door and jamb, allowing for precise marking and drilling of the hinge mortises.
By using a hinge template kit, you can ensure that the hinge mortises are properly aligned, which is crucial for the smooth operation of the door. It helps to prevent issues such as misaligned hinges, which can cause the door to bind or not close properly.
While hinge templates are generally accurate, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and use the appropriate tools for installation. This will help to ensure the best possible results. Additionally, it is always a good idea to double-check the alignment before fully securing the hinges to the door and jamb.
If you are unsure about using a hinge template kit or have any concerns, it may be helpful to consult a professional or seek guidance from someone experienced in door installation.
How does a door and jamb hinge template kit work?
A door and jamb hinge template kit is a tool used in woodworking and carpentry to accurately cut mortises for door hinges. The kit typically includes a template guide and a router bit. To use the kit, you first need to mark the desired hinge locations on the door and jamb.
Then, you align the template guide with the marked locations and secure it in place using clamps or screws.
Next, you attach the router bit to a router and set the depth of cut to match the thickness of the hinge leaf. With the router turned on, you carefully guide it along the template guide, which ensures that the mortise is cut in the correct shape and size.
The template guide acts as a guide for the router, allowing for precise and consistent cuts.
Once the mortises are cut, you can then attach the hinges to the door and jamb using screws. The use of a door and jamb hinge template kit saves time and ensures that the hinge mortises are accurately cut, resulting in properly aligned and functioning doors.
What are the benefits of using a door and jamb hinge template kit?
A door and jamb hinge template kit offers several benefits for both professional carpenters and DIY enthusiasts. Firstly, using a template ensures accurate and consistent hinge placement, resulting in properly aligned doors that open and close smoothly.
This saves time and effort, as manually measuring and marking hinge locations can be tedious and prone to errors.
Secondly, a hinge template kit helps in achieving professional results. The templates are designed to match standard hinge sizes, allowing for precise mortises to be created in the door and jamb. This ensures a clean and professional-looking installation, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the door.
Additionally, using a template kit can help prevent damage to the door and jamb. Improperly installed hinges can cause misalignment, leading to sticking doors or gaps between the door and the frame. By using a template, the risk of damaging the door or jamb is minimized, as the template guides the cutting tools to the correct depth and angle.
Overall, a door and jamb hinge template kit provides accuracy, efficiency, and professional-looking results, making it a valuable tool for anyone involved in door installation or carpentry projects.
What is a door and jamb hinge template kit?
A door and jamb hinge template kit is a tool used in woodworking or carpentry to accurately and efficiently install hinges on doors and door jambs. It typically consists of a set of templates or guides that help in marking and cutting the recesses for the hinges.
These templates are designed to match the specific size and shape of the hinges being used.
The kit usually includes templates for different hinge sizes and types, such as butt hinges or mortise hinges. It also provides guides for positioning the hinges at the correct height and depth on both the door and the jamb.
Using a door and jamb hinge template kit can greatly simplify the hinge installation process, ensuring that the hinges are aligned properly and the door opens and closes smoothly. It eliminates the need for guesswork or manual measurements, resulting in more precise and professional-looking hinge installations.
Overall, a door and jamb hinge template kit is an essential tool for anyone involved in door installation or woodworking projects that require the use of hinges.
What materials are typically included in a door and jamb hinge template kit?
A door and jamb hinge template kit typically includes several materials that are essential for installing hinges on doors and door jambs. These materials may vary depending on the specific kit, but some common components are:
1. Hinge Templates: These are the main components of the kit and are used to mark the precise locations for installing hinges on the door and jamb. They are usually made of durable materials like metal or plastic.
2. Drill Bits: The kit may include drill bits of various sizes, designed to create holes for the hinge screws. These bits are typically made of high-speed steel or carbide to ensure durability and precision.
3. Router Templates: Some kits may include router templates, which are used for routing out recesses on the door and jamb to accommodate the hinge plates. These templates help ensure a precise and flush fit.
4. Screws and Fasteners: The kit may provide screws and fasteners specifically designed for attaching hinges to the door and jamb. These screws are often made of high-quality materials like stainless steel to ensure secure and long-lasting installation.
5. Instructions: A comprehensive set of instructions or a user manual is typically included to guide users through the installation process. These instructions may include step-by-step procedures, diagrams, and helpful tips.
It is important to note that the specific contents of a door and jamb hinge template kit may vary from brand to brand or depending on the intended use. It is always advisable to check the product description or consult the manufacturer to ensure you have all the necessary materials before starting the installation process.