I replaced the hinges of my bathroom door yesterday. Though I profess using the right tool for the right job, I broke the rules yesterday. I realized that not every household have all the necessary tools for these small maintenance jobs. I do have a set of electrical drill but after realizing that most of you might not keep a set in the house, I purposely replaced the hinges using the 2 most basic tools that most household would have. Even if you don’t have these 2 tools, it will not cost much to get them. Certainly lesser than getting someone to come and replace it for you. Right, let’s see..
As you can see, the hinges have all rotted off. This is the first time I am changing these hinges, so I can say it has been quite long lasting as I have been staying in this house for more than 7 years.
The side on the door are riveted in because it is a PVC door while the side on the frame is screwed in with wood screws. The rivets are still intact because they are made of aluminum and does not rust. The screws in the frames however are all rusty and will be quite a problem to remove.
Under normal circumstances, I would have used a electrical drill to drill out those rivets, but since most of you don’t have a drill at home, I used a pair of wire cutters, just to show you that it could be done. Those who have a drill can have an easier time. just get a 3 0r 3.5 mm steel drill bit, and drill through the rivet heads. It will just drop off. For those who don’t, you will need some brute strength. Use a pair of wire cutters to forcefully snip of the rivets.
Next the screws on the door frames have to be removed too. This is somewhat tricky. Screwdrivers won’t do trick because the grooves have rotted. Again, the trusty cutters comes to good use. Get a good grip on both sides of the screw’s head and turn anti clockwise. Two things will happen. First the screws will just break, or it will come out unscrewed. Either way, it is just fine.
Those who are not used to working with tools will have a sore hand by now. But look, the rotten hinges and the rotten screws have been cleanly removed. 
Next, place the new hinges in place. 
Screw in those new screws. On the door frame first. You can use any wood screws, but I would suggest using steel self tapping screws, as they are sharper and will go in more easily. 
Do the same for the other side. If you have a riveting tool, you can of course rivet them back, but i doubt any of you keep a riveting tool at home unless you are really into DIY. It would be tougher as PVC is more pliable and may need some force for the screws to go in.
Tightened all screws and Voila! You have just replaced a bathroom door hinge all by yourself using only a pair of wire cutter and a screwdriver! Get yourself a cold beer, stand by the door and admire what you have just accomplished. It’s a great feeling.
Damage Report:
1 hinge – Rm. 1.30
8 screws -about Rm. 1.00
A pair of sore hands = Rm. 0.00
Total = 2.60
If you get a handyman.
Labor and Material Charges = At Least Rm. 30.00, depending on your location.
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